Sierra Atacama Project
Accelerating high-margin copper cathode production within the world’s premier mining district
The Sierra Atacama Project represents Cobre’s strategic entry into the Chilean mining sector—the world’s largest copper-producing nation. Located in the prolific Antofagasta region, the project consists of an operating underground mine and a fully permitted SX-EW (Solvent Extraction and Electrowinning) processing facility.
Acquired in early 2026, Sierra Atacama transforms Cobre from a pure-play explorer into an emerging producer. Our focus is on operational optimization: leveraging the existing infrastructure to rapidly scale production from the current underground operations while defining the significant open-pit potential of the surrounding mineralized zones. This project provides the immediate cash flow and operational foundation to drive Cobre’s global growth strategy.
Key Facts
- Location: Antofagasta Region, Chile (Tier-1 Mining Jurisdiction).
- Infrastructure: Fully commissioned SX-EW processing plant and existing underground mine.
- Production Goal: Scaling from current levels to >1,000 tonnes of copper cathode per month within 18 months.
- Product: High-purity LME Grade A Copper Cathodes.
- Exploration Upside: Large-scale open-pit potential and untested regional targets within the project area.
- Ownership: 100% owned following the A$60m strategic acquisition and placement.
Sierra Atacama Site Operations
The Process: SX-EW
How We Produce Green Copper
Sierra Atacama utilizes the SX-EW (Solvent Extraction and Electrowinning) process, a proven, cost-effective, and environmentally efficient method for producing high-purity copper:
- Leaching: Copper is extracted from the ore into a liquid solution.
- Solvent Extraction (SX): The copper is concentrated and purified, separating it from impurities.
- Electrowinning (EW): An electrical current is passed through the solution, causing the copper to “plate” onto stainless steel cathodes.
- The Result: 99.99% pure copper cathodes, ready for immediate sale to global markets without the need for traditional smelting.
Sierra Atacama Copper project Timeline
2026:
- Completion of the Sierra Atacama acquisition and successful A$60M capital raise to fully fund the transition from exploration to production.