:: Placer Dome Eyes New Processing Option for Cortez

The Vancouver research team for Placer Dome is evaluating new methods for treating carbonaceous, preg-robbing ores from the Pipeline deposit in central Nevada. The team has narrowed it down to two leaching processes: one a modified cyanide-based process, the other using thiosulphate. Results from this study will be incorporated into a feasibility study expected in 2003.

Placer hopes to use the new technology to reduce the need for off-site processing of this refractory ore. Since 2000, the Cortez joint venture, in which Placer owns a 60% interest, has been shipping carbonaceous ore from Pipeline to AngloGold's Jerritt Canyon operation.