Verdant Minerals Ltd (ASX:VRM) is continuing to progress the bankable feasibility study (BFS) and environmental approvals process for its Ammaroo Phosphate Project in the Northern Territory.
The company is also advancing associated financing activities in order to commercialise and de-risk Ammaroo to underpin the project’s value.
Verdant is aiming to develop an open-cut mining operation at Ammaroo which is located circa 220 kilometres south-east of Tennant Creek.
The company plans to produce up to 2 million tonnes per annum of phosphate rock concentrate forexport to regional fertiliser manufacturers.
Verdant had submitted the draft environmental impact statement in October 2017, representing a key milestone in the progression of approvals for the project. The public comment and Northern Territory government review period remains open until 8 December 2017.
Meanwhile, the bulk beneficiation pilot has been completed demonstrating the production of a high-quality rock concentrate containing 33.2% phosphorus pentoxide.
Five regional importers of phosphate rock have received, or are in the process of receiving, samples of Ammaroo phosphate concentrate to allow them to conduct internal assessments and testing.
The importers are testing the concentrate as feed for their existing phosphoric acid plants and single super phosphate production facilities.
Verdant is also continuing discussions with a number of other regional rock buyers as it continues to work towards establishing off take agreements.
The detailed engineering design of the process plant and associated infrastructure is 30% complete, and the rail spur preliminary design has been completed.
The company’s discussion with the Northern Territory government regarding a project development agreement is also underway.
