Canadian North Resources Inc. Expands Metallurgical Programs Applying Low-carbon Footprint Bioleaching Technology on Ferguson Lake Ni-Cu-Co PGE project

Core Viewpoint - Canadian North Resources Inc. has initiated an extensive metallurgical program to further develop bioleaching technology for the Ferguson Lake Project, aiming to enhance metal recovery and reduce costs and environmental impact [2][3]. Group 1: Bioleaching Technology and Program - The company is expanding bio-leaching tests to create a mineral processing flowsheet that aims for high recovery rates of nickel, cobalt, copper, and platinum group elements (PGE) [3][6]. - Initial bio-leaching tests showed very high extraction rates: nickel at 97.8-98.9% and cobalt at 96.0-97.7%, with copper extraction rates between 73.6-75.4% [3][7]. - The bio-leaching program will be conducted in two phases throughout 2025, focusing on optimizing extraction conditions and evaluating metal recovery options [4][5]. Group 2: Phases of the Metallurgical Program - Phase 1 will involve extensive testing of various conditions for whole ore bio-leaching treatment, including different ore and grind sizes to establish optimal extraction rates [4]. - Phase 2 will focus on recovering metals from the bio-leaching solution, including copper, nickel, cobalt, and PGE, as well as removing impurities and treating tailings [5]. Group 3: Resource Estimates and Potential - The Ferguson Lake mining property has a substantial mineral resource estimate, including 66.1 million tonnes of indicated resources containing 1,093 million pounds of copper and 678 million pounds of nickel [12]. - The bio-leaching technology is expected to significantly increase the value of current mineral resources and potentially allow for the inclusion of lower-grade materials as economic resources [7]. Group 4: Company Background - Canadian North Resources Inc. focuses on critical metals for clean energy, electric vehicles, and battery industries, advancing the Ferguson Lake project in Nunavut, Canada [11]. - The company collaborates with RPC, a research organization specializing in bio-leaching technology, to enhance the metallurgical processes at Ferguson Lake [8][9].