KFM has introduced another initiative to support its cost reduction and efficiency improvement program. Recently, the KFM laboratory undertook acid consumption testing for blast-hole samples, run-of-mine stockpile samples, and production-process samples. A total of 1,724 acid leaching tests were completed, providing timely and reliable data to help mining teams identify ore zones with varying acid consumption characteristics and support more precise ore blending and acid consumption management in operations.  

As the relationship between acid consumption and copper recovery varies under different acidity conditions, KFM conducted a series of tests at pH levels of 1.65, 1.60, 1.55, and 1.50 to determine the optimal balance between acid consumption control and leaching performance. The results showed that copper recovery does not necessarily increase as pH decreases. Instead, a pH level of 1.55 delivered the best overall performance, achieving the most favorable combination of average copper recovery and sulfuric acid consumption per tonne of ore.

Building on these findings and the results of its acid consumption reduction initiative, KFM recorded a significant decline in average acid consumption per tonne of ore during April and May compared with the first three months of the year. Over the two-month period, nearly 8,000 tonnes of sulfuric acid were saved, demonstrating tangible progress toward the operation's cost reduction and efficiency improvement objectives and generating measurable economic benefits.

Guided by the technical approach of “pilot testing, data validation, and process optimization,” KFM has also launched exploratory talc flotation trials. The laboratory has established a preliminary flotation testing process and optimized reagent parameters for the rougher flotation stage. Even at the testing phase, the initiative has delivered encouraging results, reducing acid consumption while improving copper recovery.

Looking ahead, the KFM laboratory will continue to align its work closely with operational needs, advancing research and testing in areas such as acid consumption monitoring, flotation, grinding, leaching, sedimentation, and ore characterization. The laboratory will further strengthen data management, process standardization, technical validation, and local talent development, gradually building an integrated technical platform that supports production services, experimental verification, and workforce development. The platform will provide strong technical support for ore blending optimization, process improvements, and cost management.

As CMOC enters a new stage of high-quality development characterized by the coordinated advancement of scale, operational excellence, platform-based management, and refined operations, its mining operations worldwide continue to implement initiatives tailored to local conditions, driving continuous improvements in productivity, efficiency, and sustainable value creation.