• Successful DFS metallurgical optimisation test work delivers improved beneficiation results
• 23% increase in product mass recovery to 72.9% at a +3.35mm product screen size
• 34% increase in product mass recovery to 79.8% at a +1mm product screen size

VBX Limited (ASX: VBX) has provided an update on progress towards development of the Wuudagu bauxite project in northern Western Australia. The DFS metallurgical optimisation test work program has been successful in demonstrating improved beneficiation outcomes compared to those assumed in the PFS. The test work results indicate a 23% increase in product mass recovery at a +3.35mm screen size and a 34% increase at a +1mm screen size, achieved at high solids ratios of 55% and short residence times of 1.5 to 2 minutes. This reduces the amount of scrubbing capacity required, minimising water and power consumption and reducing capital and operating costs. The high quality, low silica beneficiated product grades of 44.2 to 46.6% Al2O3 and 2.6 to 4.4% SiO2 across a range of screen sizes provide operational flexibility and affirm Wuudagu's desirable product quality. Additional scrubbing, screening and filtration test work programs are ongoing, and a simplified tyre driven scrubbing solution will be utilised in the DFS. Commercially, the company is seeing continued strong interest from groups who want to buy or market Wuudagu bauxite.