Gunnison talks Gunnison mineral sorting test work

Executive Summary

• Gunnison Copper reported highly encouraging results from its initial optical mineral sorting program on the Martin formation, showing >90% removal of acid‑consuming waste and up to a four‑fold reduction in acid consumption.
• The test demonstrated <1 % copper loss to waste, indicating strong recovery potential and a possible near‑doubling of process head grade.
• Results will be incorporated into an updated Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) expected in Q1 2026, supporting the project’s economics and sustainability goals.

Key Details

• Test Sample: 0.5 ton half‑ton sample of 2–6 in. PQ drill core from the Martin formation (≈54 % mineralized material, ≈46 % internal waste).
• Waste Reduction: >90 % of internal acid‑consuming waste removed using commercial‑scale optical sorting equipment.
• Acid Consumption: Sorted material projected to require up to 4× lower acid consumption versus untreated ore.
• Copper Recovery: <1 % of total copper lost to waste, preserving revenue.
• Testing Facility & Date: Initial tests conducted at Steinert’s facilities in Kentucky, August 2025.
• Potential Impact: If results are consistent, ~40 % of the mined Martin formation could be removed as internal waste before leach processing, effectively doubling head grade and significantly lowering operating costs.
• Next Steps:
• Optimization testing on varied size fractions at Base Metallurgical Labs (Tucson) with subsequent sorting at Steinert.
• Column leach testing on sorted products; some samples to be sent to Germany for advanced M‑sorter evaluation.
• Incorporation of results into an updated PEA slated for Q1 2026.

Notable Quotes

“These initial results are extremely encouraging, showing the potential to significantly reduce acid consumption while maintaining copper recovery… This type of high‑value‑add program can materially improve the project’s already‑robust economics…” – Dr. Roland Goodgame, Senior Vice‑President, Business Development, Gunnison Copper Corp.