Chalice Mining (ASX: CHN) has announced further advancements in the development of its Gonneville critical minerals project in Western Australia. Recent flowsheet improvements have led to considerable increases in metal recoveries from flotation and CIL leach processes. The test work also identified the potential for a new iron by-product, which could further enhance the project’s economics.
According to CEO Alex Dorsch, these improvements represent potential game-changers for the Gonneville project. The refined flowsheet facilitates a bulk open-pit mine plan with a low strip ratio, improving the project’s competitiveness. These metallurgical breakthroughs support the flowsheet simplification announced earlier in February 2025. Chalice has completed test work on all Gonneville sulphide mine composites, confirming improved overall recoveries. The company anticipates that these optimisations will further enhance margins beyond the projections outlined in the 2023 scoping study. Efforts are underway to commercialize the iron by-product, potentially creating a new revenue stream for Gonneville.
COO Dan Brearley confirmed that the Gonneville pre-feasibility study (PFS) is progressing rapidly, focusing on finalizing plant capital and operating costs, quantifying the iron by-product, and assessing supporting infrastructure costs. There are reportedly no significant technical obstacles remaining for the project’s development. Environmental modeling is underway in preparation for regulatory submissions next year. Chalice has also secured strong governmental support, suggesting a clear path towards timely approvals.
