Wolverine sulphides treatable: study

Following a $200,000 metallurgical study, Expatriate Resources (EXR-V) and Atna Resources (ATN-T) have concluded that selenium-rich mineralization at the Wolverine massive sulphide deposit in the Yukon is best treated by converting the zinc sulphide concentrate to a high-grade clean zinc oxide using traditional roasting.

Roasting incurs higher operating costs; however, by eliminating the selenium, higher zinc recoveries are achievable, which will offset those costs.

The partners are now considering the relative costs of on-site treatment and additional treatment at smelter sites.

The Wolverine resource is estimated at 6.2 million tonnes grading 12.66% zinc, 1.33% copper and 1.55% lead, plus 370.9 grams silver and 1.76 grams gold per tonne.

The presence of selenium has been a concern because it is not easily separated from the metal or sulphur products during smelting and refining.

Expatriate holds a 60% interest in the property, and Atna, the remainder.