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Highlights
- Evolution Energy Minerals Ltd uncovers copper and lead-zinc mineralization near Chilalo.
- Shallow workings reveal signs of malachite and chalcopyrite, suggesting a robust mineral profile.
- Exploration to progress with mapping, soil sampling, and trenching to outline the anomaly’s scope.
Evolution Energy Minerals Ltd (ASX:EV1) has discovered promising copper and lead-zinc mineralization at its Chikundo prospect, situated approximately 4.5 kilometers southwest of the Chilalo graphite plant site. This new find, located within shallow, artisanal workings developed by locals, could pave the way for EV1 to broaden its resource portfolio while advancing its Chilalo graphite project.
The artisanal workings, reaching depths of 8 to 10 meters, have shown visible signs of malachite, a copper carbonate, and chalcopyrite, a copper-iron sulfide, which signify potential high-grade copper resources. These early indicators align with previous exploration conducted by IMX Resources between 2011 and 2014, which reported significant copper content, with values reaching up to 5,800 parts per million on the surface. This earlier geochemical data hints at the presence of a volcanogenic massive sulfide (VMS) deposit, a geological formation known for its copper-lead-zinc mineralization.
Evolution Energy Minerals’ chair, Robin Birchall, noted the significance of this discovery, emphasizing that it aligns with the company’s strategic plans. “This copper anomaly represents a potentially valuable addition to our battery metals portfolio on our tenements,” Birchall said. He added that this opportunity for diversification comes as a low-cost, high-potential asset that could help propel the Chilalo graphite project forward.
The Chikundo prospect spans approximately 1.5 kilometers and includes pathfinder elements that suggest the anomaly may extend further southwest, opening new avenues for future exploration. EV1’s immediate plans involve detailed geological mapping, soil sampling, and trenching activities to establish the boundaries of the mineralized zone. These methods will provide greater clarity on the extent of the copper deposit, which could prove valuable as EV1 continues to develop its resource pipeline.
To support these efforts, EV1 will utilize data from earlier electromagnetic surveys, including both fixed loop electromagnetic (FLEM) and airborne versatile time domain electromagnetic (VTEM) assessments. These methods allow for the identification of potential VMS targets at depth, providing a comprehensive view of subsurface mineral formations. By deploying these advanced survey techniques, EV1 aims to pinpoint hidden deposits and prepare for further exploration steps.
The exploration activities will lead to a reverse circulation (RC) drilling program designed to test the depth, extent, and continuity of mineralization at Chikundo. This drilling phase will be crucial in determining the prospect’s potential as a long-term copper resource and in helping Evolution Energy Minerals strengthen its strategic position in the battery metals sector.
