Complete Guide to Heap-Leach Operations at Tavşan Gold Mine

Understanding Heap-Leach Operations at Tavşan Mine: A Comprehensive Guide

The Tavşan heap-leach project represents a significant gold and silver mining operation located in western Türkiye. Recently achieving operational status, this project is operated by Zenit Madencilik San. ve Tic. A.Ş., a joint venture in which Aim- and ASX-listed Ariana Resources holds a 23.5% interest, alongside partners Proccea Construction (23.5%) and Ozaltin Holding (53%). The mine has successfully completed its development phase and is now transitioning to active production, which comes at a time of significant gold prices analysis showing favorable market conditions.

Resource Profile and Production Potential

The Tavşan project hosts a JORC 2012-compliant resource of approximately 311,000 ounces of gold and 1.1 million ounces of silver. This substantial resource base supports an eight-year mine life with strong potential for further resource growth through ongoing exploration activities. The project is designed to produce approximately 30,000 ounces of gold annually, representing a significant contribution to Ariana's overall production portfolio in the region.

Strategic Location and Infrastructure

Situated in western Türkiye, the Tavşan project benefits from relatively favorable mining jurisdiction conditions and proximity to existing infrastructure. Its strategic location allows for operational synergies with Ariana's other Turkish mining interests, particularly the established Kiziltepe operation.

How Does Heap-Leach Processing Work at Tavşan?

The Heap-Leach Process Explained

Heap-leach processing at Tavşan follows industry-standard methodologies optimized for the specific ore characteristics found at the site. The process involves:

1. Mining and crushing of gold-bearing ore to optimal particle size (typically between 6-19mm)

2. Stacking the crushed ore on specially prepared leach pads lined with impermeable barriers

3. Applying a cyanide-based leaching solution through drip irrigation systems to dissolve gold and silver

4. Collecting the pregnant solution containing dissolved precious metals in lined ponds

5. Processing the solution through carbon adsorption circuits to capture gold and silver

6. Recovery of precious metals through electrowinning and smelting to produce doré bars

This cost-effective extraction method allows Tavşan to efficiently process lower-grade ores that might not be economically viable through conventional milling operations.

Current Operational Status

As of October 2025, the Tavşan heap-leach project has achieved several critical operational milestones:

• Final permitting has been secured, allowing full-scale operations to commence

• Ore loading onto the heap-leach pads is actively underway

• Approximately 800,000 tonnes of ore have been stockpiled for processing

• Crushing operations have been ongoing since August 2025

• The project infrastructure, including leach pads and processing facilities, is complete

Gold production from the heap-leach operation is expected to begin later in the fourth quarter of 2025, once sufficient ore has been loaded and the leaching process initiates. This timeline aligns with the company's strategic production goals and represents the culmination of extensive development work.

What Technical Challenges Were Overcome?

Engineering and Operational Hurdles

Developing the Tavşan heap-leach operation required overcoming numerous technical challenges typical of such projects:

Pad Construction and Liner Installation: The engineering team had to carefully design and construct heap-leach pads with appropriate liners to prevent environmental contamination. This included multiple layers of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) liners, geotextiles, and drainage systems to ensure zero discharge to the environment.

Crushing Circuit Optimization: The metallurgical team conducted extensive testing to configure crushing equipment to achieve the optimal particle size for leaching efficiency. Too fine a crush can lead to permeability issues, while too coarse reduces metal recovery rates.

Solution Management: Engineers designed sophisticated systems for solution application, collection, and recycling that maintain proper flow rates and solution strength while minimizing water consumption.

Water Supply Security: In an area with seasonal rainfall patterns, establishing reliable water sources for the leaching process required significant infrastructure investment, including water storage facilities and management systems.

Environmental Compliance: The project team successfully navigated stringent environmental requirements to secure final permitting, implementing comprehensive monitoring systems and control measures.

According to Ariana's Managing Director, the joint venture successfully navigated "a complex range of technical, logistical and operational challenges" to bring the project to operational status.

Parallel Processing Strategies

A notable aspect of Tavşan's operational strategy is the dual processing approach being implemented. While the heap-leach operation forms the backbone of the project, high-grade ore from Tavşan will continue to be trucked to the Kiziltepe carbon-in-leach (CIL) processing plant. This strategic decision leverages the higher recovery rates achievable through CIL processing for premium ore (typically 90-95% recovery), while using more cost-effective heap-leaching for the bulk of the resource (typically 70-80% recovery).

This dual approach maximizes overall project economics by applying the optimal processing method based on ore grade and metallurgical characteristics.

What Economic Factors Impact Tavşan's Success?

Market Timing and Metal Prices

The commencement of heap-leaching operations at Tavşan coincides with favorable market conditions in the precious metals sector. As noted by Ariana's management, "the gold and silver price continuing their relentless upward trajectory" creates an advantageous economic environment for the project's launch.

The timing of Tavşan's operational start-up is particularly favorable, with gold market trends showing prices hovering near historical highs. This market environment significantly enhances project economics and potential return on investment, potentially allowing for:

• Higher profit margins per ounce produced
• Faster payback of capital investments
• Potential to process lower-grade material economically
• Enhanced project net present value (NPV)

Production Economics

Heap-leach operations typically offer several economic advantages that make them attractive for certain types of deposits:

Lower Capital Intensity: Heap-leach facilities generally require 30-60% less upfront investment compared to conventional milling operations of similar throughput. This reduced capital requirement improves project financial metrics and lowers financing hurdles.

Operational Flexibility: The modular nature of heap-leach operations allows Tavşan to scale production based on market conditions and ore availability. Pads can be expanded incrementally as needed, allowing for phased capital deployment.

Cost-Effective Processing: With operating costs typically ranging from $5-10 per tonne processed (compared to $15-30 for conventional milling), heap-leaching enables profitable processing of lower-grade material. This expands the economically viable resource base.

Faster Time to Production: Heap-leach facilities are typically 30-40% quicker to construct and commission than conventional plants, accelerating cash flow generation and improving project economics.

These factors contribute to Tavşan's economic viability and its potential to generate strong returns for Ariana and its partners, even in potentially volatile market conditions.

What Does Tavşan Mean for Ariana Resources?

Portfolio Diversification and Growth

The successful development and operation of Tavşan represents a significant milestone in Ariana's growth strategy. The project:

1. Diversifies the company's production base in Türkiye beyond the existing Kiziltepe operation

2. Increases overall gold production capacity by approximately 30,000 ounces annually

3. Demonstrates operational capabilities in developing and commissioning complex mining projects

4. Establishes a foundation for future dividend flow to shareholders from the joint venture

The addition of Tavşan to Ariana's operational portfolio strengthens the company's position in the Turkish mining sector and provides production stability through geographic and operational diversification.

Future Outlook and Dividends

Ariana has indicated that the successful operation of Tavşan is expected to contribute to "renewed dividend flow from Zenit during 2026." This forward-looking statement suggests confidence in the project's ability to generate positive cash flow and return value to shareholders in the near term.

The company's 23.5% interest in the Zenit joint venture positions it to receive proportional benefits from Tavşan's operational success, potentially supporting:

• Sustainable dividend payments
• Reinvestment in exploration and development
• Reduction of corporate debt
• Funding for new project acquisitions

How Does Tavşan Compare to Other Heap-Leach Operations?

Industry Benchmarking

When compared to other global heap-leach operations, Tavşan represents a mid-tier project with several distinguishing characteristics:

Resource Grade: The average gold grade of 1.26 g/t positions Tavşan favorably among heap-leach operations globally, many of which operate at grades below 1 g/t. This above-average grade enhances project economics and recovery efficiency.

Recovery Rates: Preliminary test work indicates gold recoveries of approximately 80%, which is at the higher end of typical heap-leach recovery ranges (60-80%). This performance reflects favorable ore characteristics and optimized processing parameters.

Production Scale: The planned annual production of 30,000 ounces places Tavşan in the small to medium-sized category of gold operations. While not a major producer by global standards, this scale is well-suited to the resource size and the operational capabilities of the joint venture.

Mine Life: The eight-year initial mine life provides a solid operational horizon with potential for extension through exploration success or resource optimization.

Technological Implementation

The Tavşan project implements modern mining technologies, including:

Agglomeration: Pre-treatment of ore with cement or lime to improve permeability and leach solution contact with ore particles. This process is particularly important for clay-rich ores to prevent compaction and channeling within the heap.

Drip Irrigation: Modern drip irrigation systems for efficient solution application and reduced water consumption. This approach minimizes evaporation losses and ensures even distribution of leaching solution throughout the heap.

Solution Management Systems: Automated systems for optimal metal recovery and environmental protection, including solution strength monitoring, flow rate control, and leak detection networks.

ADR (Adsorption-Desorption-Recovery) Processing: State-of-the-art carbon adsorption circuits for efficient extraction of gold from pregnant solutions, followed by elution (stripping), electrowinning, and smelting to produce doré.

These technological implementations represent current industry best practices and contribute to both operational efficiency and environmental protection at the site.

What Environmental Considerations Apply to Heap-Leach Operations?

Environmental Management Practices

Heap-leach operations require robust environmental management systems to prevent potential impacts. At Tavşan, these include:

Liner Systems: Multiple layers of impermeable materials to prevent solution seepage, typically including:

• Compacted clay layer
• Primary HDPE liner (typically 1.5-2.0 mm thickness)
• Leak detection system
• Secondary HDPE liner
• Protective geotextile layers

Solution Containment: Engineered berms, channels, and ponds to manage and contain process solutions, with redundant systems to handle extreme precipitation events and prevent overflows.

Water Management: Sophisticated systems to control stormwater and prevent mixing with process solutions, including diversion channels, retention basins, and monitoring points.

Monitoring Networks: Comprehensive groundwater and surface water monitoring systems to detect potential impacts, with regular sampling and analysis to ensure environmental compliance.

Closure Planning: Long-term strategies for site reclamation after mining concludes, including rinsing procedures, neutralization protocols, capping designs, and revegetation plans.

The implementation of these environmental safeguards reflects the industry's evolution toward increasingly stringent standards and the joint venture's commitment to responsible mining practices. Furthermore, effective waste management solutions play a crucial role in minimizing environmental impact throughout the operation.

Regulatory Compliance

The successful permitting of Tavşan indicates compliance with Türkiye's mining and environmental regulations. This achievement reflects the project's adherence to required standards and the implementation of appropriate mitigation measures for potential environmental impacts.

Türkiye's regulatory framework for mining has evolved significantly in recent years, with increasing emphasis on environmental protection, community engagement, and sustainable development. The Tavşan project's successful navigation of this regulatory landscape demonstrates the joint venture's capability to operate in accordance with modern environmental standards.

What Future Developments Can Be Expected at Tavşan?

Production Ramp-Up Timeline

Following the commencement of heap-leaching operations, Tavşan is expected to follow a typical production ramp-up sequence:

Initial Leaching Phase (Q4 2025): The first few months will focus on building solution grades in the leach circuit and optimizing leach parameters such as solution strength, pH, and flow rates. Initial gold production will begin during this phase but may be variable as systems are fine-tuned.

Production Stabilization (Q1-Q2 2026): As operations mature, production rates will stabilize at design capacity. Solution management systems will be optimized for maximum metal recovery, and operational routines will be established for consistent performance.

Optimization Phase (Q3 2026 onward): Continuous improvement initiatives to enhance recovery rates and reduce operating costs, potentially including:

• Adjustments to crush size
• Modifications to solution chemistry
• Improvements to solution application methods
• Optimization of carbon management in the ADR plant

This phased approach aligns with industry best practices for heap-leach startups and maximizes the probability of operational success.

Exploration and Resource Growth

Beyond the current eight-year mine life, Tavşan presents opportunities for resource expansion through:

Near-Mine Exploration: Systematic drilling programs targeting extensions of known mineralization along strike and down-dip. Historical exploration suggests potential for resource additions in several directions from the current pit designs.

Regional Exploration: Investigating satellite deposits within the broader project area. The geological setting of Tavşan is favorable for additional epithermal gold discoveries, with several promising targets already identified.

Depth Extensions: Evaluating the potential for deeper mineralization below the current pit designs. While heap-leaching typically focuses on near-surface oxide ores, the presence of deeper sulfide mineralization could present future development opportunities.

Successful exploration could significantly extend the project's operational lifespan and enhance its overall economic value, potentially supporting:

• Mine life extension beyond the initial eight years
• Increased annual production rates
• Addition of different processing methods for sulfide ores
• Development of satellite mining centers

FAQ: Common Questions About Heap-Leach Operations

What are typical gold recovery rates for heap-leach operations?

Gold recovery rates for heap-leach operations typically range from 60% to 80%, depending on ore characteristics, crushing size, and leaching parameters. Tavşan's preliminary test work indicates recoveries at the higher end of this range, suggesting favorable ore characteristics for this processing method.

Several factors influence recovery rates:

• Ore mineralogy and liberation characteristics
• Presence of carbonaceous material that may re-absorb gold
• Clay content that can impede solution flow
• Crushing size and agglomeration effectiveness
• Leach cycle duration

How long does the heap-leach process take?

The primary leaching cycle for gold heap-leach operations generally ranges from 60 to 120 days, with the majority of recoverable gold typically extracted in the first 30-60 days. Secondary leaching may continue for additional months to recover remaining accessible gold.

A typical leaching timeline includes:

• Days 1-30: Rapid initial dissolution (40-60% of recoverable gold)
• Days 31-60: Moderate dissolution rate (20-30% of recoverable gold)
• Days 61-120: Diminishing returns (10-20% of recoverable gold)
• Extended leaching: Recovery of final percentages at low dissolution rates

What happens to heap-leach facilities after mining concludes?

After mining operations end, heap-leach facilities undergo a closure process that typically includes:

• Rinsing of heaps with fresh water to remove residual chemicals
• Neutralization of any remaining solutions
• Capping with soil and revegetation to stabilize surfaces and prevent erosion
• Long-term monitoring to ensure environmental stability
• Potential reprocessing if future technologies make it economically viable

Modern mine reclamation innovations have significantly improved the rehabilitation process, ensuring heap-leach facilities can be safely closed with minimal long-term environmental impact.

How does heap-leaching compare to conventional milling?

Heap-leaching generally offers lower capital and operating costs but achieves lower metal recoveries compared to conventional milling. It is typically most suitable for oxide ores with good permeability and relatively low clay content.

The selection between these processing methods depends on ore characteristics, project economics, and environmental considerations.

The Significance of Tavşan's Operational Milestone

The commencement of heap-leach operations at Tavşan represents a significant achievement for Ariana Resources and its partners. This milestone demonstrates the company's ability to successfully develop mining projects from exploration through to production, reinforcing its position in the Turkish mining sector.

The project's timing aligns favorably with strong precious metals prices, enhancing its economic potential and the likelihood of generating substantial returns for shareholders. As gold production begins in the coming months, Tavşan will contribute to Ariana's growth trajectory and provide a foundation for future dividend distributions.

With its substantial resource base, favorable economics, and potential for expansion, Tavşan exemplifies the continued relevance of heap-leach technology in the global gold mining industry, particularly for deposits with characteristics that align well with this processing methodology.

Responsible Mining Practices

Tavşan's development reflects the mining industry's evolution toward more sustainable and responsible practices. The project incorporates:

• Water conservation measures through solution recycling
• Energy efficiency in crushing and materials handling
• Comprehensive environmental monitoring
• Progressive reclamation planning
• Community engagement programs

These elements align with growing investor expectations for environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance in the mining sector.

Investment Implications

For investors following Ariana Resources and the Turkish mining sector, Tavşan's operational start-up may have several implications:

• Potential share price catalysts as production milestones are achieved
• Diversification of revenue streams for the company
• Demonstration of operational capabilities that may enhance corporate valuation
• Possibility of increased dividend flow from 2026 onward

Disclaimer: The above analysis represents an educational overview of heap-leach operations and the Tavşan project specifically. It does not constitute investment advice. Investors should conduct their own due diligence and consider their individual investment objectives before making investment decisions related to mining companies or projects.

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