i-minerals inc.'s (TSX.V:IMA) primary focus is the development of the deposits of the Helmer - Bovill Project in north-central Idaho. The company is led by Roger A. Kauffman, an experienced mining engineer with many years of industrial minerals experience and multiple mine developments to his credit.
The Helmer – Bovill property hosts three types of industrial mineral deposits all of which are related to a border phase of the Thatuna granodiorite (“TG”):
- feldspar / quartz deposits within the unweathered TG ;
- residual deposits of feldspar / kaolin / halloysite / quartz within the weathered TG;
- sedimentary deposits (transported residual deposits) of kaolin.
i-minerals has elected to initially pursue the first two types of deposits. The Kelly’s Basin deposit, a type (i) unweathered TG feldspar / quartz deposit is the first deposit targeted for production. A feasibility study managed by SRK Consulting (US), Inc. of Denver, Colorado is ongoing; while the mine permitting process which is overseen by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is well underway. Completion of the feasibility study and the permit application process are targeted for completion in H1 2009.
The initial assessment of the WBL Pit Area deposits, a type (ii) residual of feldspar / kaolin / halloysite / quartz deposit is underway. Preliminary metallurgical work has identified separation techniques that have successfully produced commercial quality halloysite, kaolin, quartz and potassium feldspar products.
Rail, interstate highways and tidewater access through the port of Lewiston provide the Helmer – Bovill property with exceptional transportation logistics and favorably positioned to compete in domestic and international markets.