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Highlights
- Consistent rare earth element mineralization grades observed through auger drilling
- Magnetic rare earth oxide presence in fresh bedrock supports in-situ recovery methods
- Drilling data contributes to upcoming resource estimations and a feasibility study scheduled for the future
Brazilian Critical Minerals (ASX:BCM) operates within the mineral exploration sector with a focus on rare earth elements. The company has concentrated efforts on the Ema project located in Brazil's Apui region, where extensive auger drilling is being conducted to document the characteristics of the rare earth element mineralization. The work contributes to a broader understanding of REE grades and extraction techniques that are prevalent in similar deposits worldwide.
Drilling Campaign Progress
The auger drilling program at the Ema project has been extensive, with numerous drill holes executed during the resource infill phase. Recent assay results demonstrate consistent rare earth element grades and mineralization thicknesses across various drill holes. One notable drill hole recorded an extended interval of enriched REE oxide concentration starting from a shallow depth. The drilling campaign has been structured to cover a significant area within the central exploration zone, thereby providing comprehensive data on the distribution of mineralization.
Mineralization Characteristics
Assay results from the campaign have recorded solid grades of rare earth oxides, measured over continuous intervals at shallow depths. The mineralization is marked by the presence of magnetic rare earth oxides such as neodymium and praseodymium, with heightened concentrations near the fresh bedrock contact. The REE mineralization is primarily confined to the upper few tens of meters, offering a favorable context for certain extraction methods that take advantage of surface-near deposits. The composition of the mixed rare earth oxides also shows a significant proportion of heavy rare earth elements, especially in the lower saprolite zones.
In-Situ Recovery Methods
The shallow occurrence of the mineralization opens the door for in-situ recovery mining techniques that are commonly applied to ionic clay-hosted deposits. This recovery method is being explored due to the efficient extraction process it offers, especially when dealing with magnet rare earth oxides. The geological setting at the Ema project, with its distinct fresh bedrock contact, aligns with the characteristics required for effective in-situ recovery.
Path Forward
Further drilling has been carried out within prioritized zones across a substantial section of the exploration area. The additional drilling assists with developing ore reserve calculations ahead of the upcoming feasibility study scheduled in the near future. The geological similarities with major REE deposits found in other parts of the world have generated interest within the mineral exploration community. Upcoming exploration phases will extend into previously uncharted areas of the project, aiming to further delineate the resource and support future project evaluations.
