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New Discovery At Seymour
HIGHLIGHTS
- First new discovery at Seymour in 50 years: Blue Bear
- Located approx. 500m south-east of Aubry Complex which hosts MRE of 9.9Mt @ 1.04 Li2O%1
- Surface exposure (under thin cover) has similar strike and geometry to North Aubry
- Six channel samples have returned assays including:
- GTC-22-002: 12.4m @ 2.38% Li2O
- GTC-22-001: 14.2m @ 1.17% Li2O (incl. 11.5m @ 1.52% Li2O)
- Fourteen (14) diamond holes have been drilled to date, all intersecting pegmatite
- Six holes have returned assays to date including:
- GTDD-22-0350: 13.9m @ 1.53% Li2O from 13.8m (incl. 8.8m @ 2.27% Li2O)
- GTDD-22-0360: 14.4m @ 1.30% Li2O from 21.1m (incl. 10.8m @ 1.72% Li2O)
- Ongoing diamond drilling and channel sampling now rapidly delineating the Blue Bear deposit
- Second diamond rig undertaking sterilisation drilling for Seymour plant site and infrastructure
“This is the first discovery at Seymour in over 50 years. To find a spodumene-bearing pegmatite under cover utilising classic geological and modern geophysical and geochemical techniques is testament to the abilities of the GT1 technical team and our exploration modelling.”
“We will now drive hard to rapidly delineate the scale of this new discovery, as well as testing further new targets in this area of North Seymour. This is expected to culminate in an updated Mineral Resource estimate for the Seymour Project in coming months. We also continue to rapidly progress Preliminary Economic Assessment work on a development of Seymour, with scheduled completion in Q1 2023.”
- GT1 Chief Executive Officer, Luke Cox
Blue Bear: New discovery on Pye West Limb
The new discovery, Blue Bear, is located on a Priority 1 target zone delineated during target generation and followed up by diamond drill hole, GTDD-22-0186. During drill site preparation the dozer cleared an access track and pad for the diamond rig, exposing a small 1m2 area of bedrock beneath a thin layer of glacial till. The bedrock was quickly identified as spodumene-bearing pegmatite and subsequently confirmed by the Bruker–Raman Spectrometer.
Further mechanical stripping of the area has delineated a pegmatite surface exposure with similar size, geometry and orientation to the North Aubry deposit located approximately 500m northwest. As such, there also exists potential for the two deposits to be associated, including potentially connected at depth, forming a larger mineralising system which we also plan to promptly test with step-out drilling.
Delineation drilling in progress
Delineation diamond drilling has commenced at Blue Bear starting with shallow scissor holes to determine strike and dip of the LCT pegmatite. Initial indications are showing the pegmatite is striking NNW with an apparent dip direction of ENE, dipping 10-30 degrees.
Of the fourteen (14) holes drilled to date, all have intersected pegmatite and 12 have intersected significant pegmatite intercepts (see Figure 3 and Table 1). Assays have been returned to date for six holes (see Table 1).
Hole GTDD-22-0186 was the first/discovery hole, drilled in an easterly direction from the pad where the initial outcrop was uncovered, and returning 7.1m of weathered pegmatite. Two holes, GTDD-22-0359/0360, stepped out slightly to the north-east and were drilled in a broadly westerly direction against the interpreted dip, returning thick pegmatite intervals of 14.1m at 0.66% Li2O from 20.4m (including 8.7m at 0.95% Li2O) and 14.4m at 1.30% Li2O from 21.1m (including 10.8m at 1.72% Li2O), respectively. A similar directional hole, GTDD-22-0350, was drilled approximately 60m SSE of the discovery hole and returned a 13.9m pegmatite interval at 1.53% Li2O from 13.8m (including 8.8m at 2.27% Li2O).
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This article includes content from Green Technology Metals, licensed for the purpose of publishing on Investing News Australia. This article does not constitute financial product advice. It is your responsibility to perform proper due diligence before acting upon any information provided here. Please refer to our full disclaimer here.
Field Work Extends Liwa Creek Gold Prospect; Samples 55 g/t Gold and 379 g/t Silver in Outcrop And Discovers Significant New Gold Zone
Thunderstruck Resources Ltd. (TSXV:AWE) (OTC:THURF) (The “Company” or “Thunderstruck”) is pleased to announce that ongoing geochemical sampling on the Liwa Creek gold prospect has expanded known targets and discovered a significant new gold zone.
The combined 2017 and 2018 prospecting and geochemical sampling programs at Liwa Creek have resulted in the discovery of multiple gold showings over a three-km, northeast-trending structural corridor that is open in all directions. The Company’s intensive exploration approach combining initial stream BLEG sampling, followed by ridge-and-spur soil sampling, and anomaly-focused prospecting has, and continues, to lead to new discoveries.
In particular, sampling programs have returned high-grade gold and silver assays over previously discovered zones and expanded those zones. In addition, a potentially significant new zone, featuring the highest-grade soil sample yet collected, has been discovered.
Brien Lundin, Thunderstruck’s Chairman stated, “Following up on the successful results from our Rama prospect, field work continues to expand our Liwa prospect as well. In combination with our Nakoro and Wainaleka VMS discoveries, it’s becoming obvious that our Fiji properties offer tremendous potential. We are excited about continuing to advance on all fronts.”
As detailed in the Appendix, prospecting and geochemical sampling programs at Liwa Creek have resulted in the discovery of multiple gold showings over a three-km, northeast-trending structural corridor that is open in all directions.
Two distinct styles of gold mineralization have been identified at Liwa Creek: narrow northeast-trending high-grade gold plus base metal veins lacking significant wall rock alteration typified by the Jensen’s Showing; and dominantly north-south trending wide zones of gold-silver mineralized quartz-sericite-illite-pyrite altered volcanic rocks such as those occurring at the Liwa Ridge Showing and possibly the newly discovered Lower Vatuvatulevu gold target.
The two styles of mineralization exhibit characteristics of sub-epithermal gold-base metal and intermediate sulphidation epithermal gold-silver veins, respectively. The classification is significant in that both deposit styles are interpreted to have close copper porphyry deposit association, with intermediate sulphidation veins being interpreted as shallow-level counterparts of deeper gold plus base metal sub-epithermal veins located alongside porphyry copper deposits.
Juxtaposition of relatively shallow high-level intermediate sulphidation gold-silver vein system and deeper sub-epithermal high grade gold veins is interpreted to indicate overprinting of early deep copper porphyry related high grade gold veins by relatively late high-level gold-silver mineralization. The Company believes this indicates the presence of a significant and long-lived hydrothermal system at Liwa Creek.
Lawrence Roulston, Thunderstruck Director, noted, “The methodical exploration program at Liwa continues to be very effective at outlining this extensive gold system under soil cover. On-going work continues to push out the limits in prospective areas. Liwa already has a footprint in line with major gold-bearing systems. The size and the gold tenor of this system are extremely encouraging, especially in this Pacific Ring of Fire setting that hosts multiple world-class gold deposits.”
Thunderstruck is advancing toward securing joint venture partners on its VMS and porphyry targets as it focuses on this highly prospective gold zone.
About Fiji
Viti Levu, the main island of Fiji, has a long mining history. It is on the prolific Pacific Ring of Fire, a trend that has produced numerous large deposits, including Porgera, Lihir and Grasberg. The island of Viti Levu hosts Namosi, held by a joint venture between Newcrest and Mitsubishi. Newcrest published Proven and Probable Reserves for Namosi of 1.3 billion tonnes at 0.37% Cu and 0.12 g/t Au (5.2M ounces Au and 4.9M tonnes Cu). Namosi is now undergoing environmental assessment as part of the permitting process. Lion One Metals is now developing its Tuvatu Project, with Indicated Resources of 1.1 million tonnes at 8.17 g/t Au (294,000 ounces Au), and Inferred Resources of 1.3 million tonnes at 10.6 g/t Au (445,000 ounces Au). The Vatukoula Gold Mine has been operating for 80 years, producing in excess of 7 million ounces.
About Thunderstruck Resources
Thunderstruck Resources is a Canadian mineral exploration company that has assembled extensive and highly prospective properties in Fiji on which recent and previous exploration has confirmed VMS, copper and precious metals mineralization. Liwa Creek is one of four projects, each of which is being marketed as potential joint venture opportunities. The Company provides investors with exposure to a diverse portfolio of exploration stage projects with potential for zinc, copper, gold and silver in a politically safe and stable jurisdiction. Thunderstruck trades on the Toronto Venture Exchange (TSX-V) under the symbol “AWE” and United States OTCQB under the symbol “THURF”.
Qualified Person Statement
Kristopher J. Raffle, P.Geo. (BC) Principal and Consultant of APEX Geoscience Ltd. of Edmonton, AB, is a qualified person for the project as defined by National Instrument NI 43-101. Mr. Raffle has reviewed and approved the portion of the technical content of this news release as it relates to the Liwa Creek Prospect.
During 2018 all stream sediment samples were submitted to Australian Laboratory Services Pty. Ltd (ALS) labs Perth for BLEG determination of gold. Auger soil samples were submitted for gold and multi-element geochemical analysis via a 25 gram (g) sample split subject ICP-MS. Prospecting and trench rock samples submitted for 30g gold Fire-Assay analysis and multi-element geochemistry by four-acid ICP-ES. Given the reconnaissance nature of the samples, Thunderstruck has relied on the external QA/QC of ALS which included the insertion of insertion of standard, blank and duplicate samples at a rate of 10% into the sample stream to confirm the accuracy of the reported results.
For additional information, please contact:
Rob Christl, Investor Relations
Email: rob@thunderstruck.ca
P: 778 840-7180
or, visit our website: https://www.thunderstruck.ca
APPENDIX – LIWA CREEK GOLD PROJECT EXPLORATION DETAILS
Rock Sampling
At Liwa Creek exploration was designed to follow-up and expand on broad trenched gold zones at the Liwa Ridge Showing (0.61 g/t gold over 71.3 metres; including 1.2 g/t gold over 26.5. metres); further develop the high-grade Jensen’s Showing (previous outcrop quartz vein rock grab samples returning 36 and 32 g/t gold from outcrop); and locate the source of widespread gold in float rock located within confined drainages of the Lower Vatuvatulevu Creek and Gun showing areas (see the Company’s February 13, 2018 news release).
Of the 55 current rock grab samples collected at Liwa, a total of 15 samples returned greater than 1 g/t gold or 10 g/t silver; and up to 55.2 g/t gold and 379 g/t silver (Table 1).
At the Jensen’s Showing two parallel, northeast trending, high-grade gold bearing quartz veins are exposed in the bed of Wainamoli Creek over a distance of 50 metres. The veins dip 60 to 80 degrees to the northwest and occur along the upper and lower contacts of an approximately 10 metre thick intrusive dyke cutting volcaniclastic rocks of the Wainimala Group.
Rock grab and small diameter backpack core drilling of the northern vein resulted in four (4) samples returning gold assays of 55.2 , 40.2 , 31.9, and 25.5 g/t gold (the later cored over a 0.22-metre true-width of the vein) with associated lead, copper and zinc values. Jensen’s Showing quartz veins are brecciated and contain massive to semi-massive galena, chalcopyrite and sphalerite with vuggy comb to crustiform banded quartz vein textures in association with sericite-illite host rock alteration. The Jensen’s south vein ranges in width from 0.1 to 0.5 metres in width and exhibits similar polyphase brecciated, anastomosing pinch-and-swell, comb and crustiform banded textures, with a total of 6 rock outcrop samples returning between 1.45 to 7.13 g/t gold.
Table 1: Liwa Creek Gold Prospect Significant Rock Grab Sample Results
Sample ID | Showing | Au (g/t) | Ag (g/t) | Pb (%) | Cu (%) | Zn (%) |
28028 | Jenson’s | 55.2 | 24.8 | 10.0 | 0.35 | – |
28014 | 40.2 | 19.4 | 1.85 | 0.39 | – | |
28003 | 31.9 | 21.8 | 0.99 | 0.34 | – | |
28021 | 25.5 | 27.8 | 0.94 | 1.42 | 1.94 | |
28015 | 7.13 | 13.4 | 0.65 | 0.12 | 0.63 | |
28004 | 4.62 | 8.3 | 0.36 | 0.3 | – | |
28002 | 4.14 | 8.2 | 0.34 | – | – | |
28013 | 3.33 | 7.1 | 0.17 | – | – | |
28029 | 3.24 | 8.9 | 0.24 | – | 0.29 | |
28018 | 1.82 | 11.7 | 0.61 | 0.1 | 0.16 | |
28017 | 1.45 | 5.7 | 0.23 | – | – | |
28010 | Liwa Ridge | – | 379 | 0.28 | – | 0.54 |
28009 | 4.53 | 9.2 | 0.36 | – | – | |
28027 | 0.85 | 13.0 | 0.1 | – | – | |
28007 | 0.30 | 36.2 | – | – | – |
A distance of 100 metres to the east of the main Jensen’s discovery outcrops a rock grab sample of silicified and comb textured quartz veined Wainimala Group volcanic breccia rocks returned 4.62 g/t gold.
Rock outcrop and subcrop float grab sampling within Liwa Creek at the northern extent of the Liwa Ridge Showing, 800 metres west of Jensen’s, returned 4.53 g/t gold and 379 g/t silver (the highest silver assay to date at Liwa Creek), respectively, from silica-flooded and quartz stockwork veined intrusive.
Soils
A total of 141 additional ridge-and-spur aguer soil geochemical samples were collected Liwa Creek. Sampling was designed to isolate potential source zones to the northeast of the Jenson’s gold zone, and widespread gold in float rock recovered within the Lower Vatuvatulevu Creek and Gun showing areas.
Auger soil sampling within the Lower Vatuvatulevu Creek area resulted in the discovery of a significant new gold zone. Prior stream BLEG and prospecting float rock grab sampling within this small 400 x 400 metre drainage returned anomalous gold values. Current soil sampling along the southern ridge resulted in 8 soils collected over a 160-metre interval returning greater than 20 ppb gold, and up to 2,480 ppb gold (2.48 g/t gold) in soil. The result is four times greater than any previous soil sample collected on the project (643 ppb gold from the Liwa Ridge Gold Zone 1.5 km to the west). The five highest soils samples returned 707, 804, 894, 1050 and 2,480 ppb gold. The orientation of this newly discovered gold zone is presently not known. An aggressive follow-up via intensive prospecting, hand trenching and expansion of ridge-and-spur aguer soils to the south is warranted.
In addition, soil sampling along the Gun Showing ridge returned isolated anomalous gold values including 336 ppb and 82 ppb gold, which warrant additional follow-up sampling and prospecting.
Trenching
Hand excavated trenching at three locations (GT1, GT2, and GT3) totaling 29 metres within the Gun Showing area was designed to follow up on previously reported anomalous gold in soil values of 65 and 82 ppb gold (see the Company’s February 13, 2018 news release). Trenches were excavated to a depth of 1 metre into the subsoil, however competent outcrop was not reached in any of the trenches. Trench GT3 returned 0.2 g/t gold over 2 metres from 0 to 2 metres; and 0.17 g/t gold over 3 metres between 8 and 11 metres. Trench GT2 returned 0.12 g/t gold over 2 metres; in addition to silicified and veined float rock grab samples recovered during excavation that returned 0.44, 0.20, and 0.15 g/t gold; including 4.5, 6.2 and 9.6 g/t silver, respectively. Trench GT1 did not return significant values.
Stream BLEG Sampling
Completion of stream BLEG geochemical sampling in the Noda Creek drainage designed to evaluate the potential southern extension of the north-south trending Liwa Ridge Gold Zone. Of the 23 Noda Creek stream BLEG samples collected a total of 13 samples returned greater than 20 parts-per-billion (ppb) gold and are considered anomalous. A stream BLEG collected from the Noda Creek headwaters at the southernmost known extent of the Liwa Ridge gold zone returned 93 ppb gold. This sample represents the highest gold in stream sediment value returned form the Project to date, and underscores the potential to expand the Liwa Zone southward.
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange Inc. nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
This news release contains certain statements that may be deemed “forward-looking statements”. Although Thunderstruck believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in forward looking statements.Forward looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of Thunderstruck’s management on the date the statements are made. Except as required by law, Thunderstruck undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in the event that management’s beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change.
Figure 1
To view an enhanced version of Figure 1, please visit:
https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/2901/40686_
Source: www.newsfilecorp.com
DLE Pilot Plant First Stage Production Completed, Downstream Process Optimised with Sample of Battery-Grade Lithium Produced
CleanTech Lithium PLC (AIM:CTL, Frankfurt:T2N, OTCQX:CTLHF), an exploration and development company advancing sustainable lithium projects in Chile, announces completion of the first stage of production from the Company´s DLE pilot plant operations and results from successful downstream process test work to produce battery-grade lithium carbonate by process partners in North America.
Highlights:
- An initial volume of 88m3 of concentrated eluate, which is the lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) of approx. one tonne, has been produced from the Company´s DLE pilot plant in Copiapó, Chile over an operating period of 384 hours with 14 cycles completed
- This completes the first stage of production from the DLE pilot plant
- Results show the DLE adsorbent achieved a lithium recovery rate of approximately 95% from the brine, with total recovery (adsorption plus desorption) achieving approximately 88%
- Impurity rejection rates were very high producing a low impurity eluate conducive to the downstream conversion process.
- The concentrated eluate is being shipped in four batches to the facilities of Conductive Energy in Chicago, USA, for conversion into battery grade lithium carbonate
Shipment | Eluate Volume | Eluate Li Grade | LCE (kg) | Shipment Status |
1 | 24m3 | 2008 mg/L | 257 | Arrived process facility |
2 | 24m3 | 2360 mg/L | 301 | In Shipment |
3 | 24m3 | 2325 mg/L | 297 | In shipment |
4 | 17.5m3 | 2464 mg/L | 230 | At departure port |
Targeted | 90m3 | 2000 mg/L | 1022 | |
Total Achieved | 88m3 | 2289 mg/L | 1085 |
Table 1: Status of concentrated eluate from pilot plant first stage production
- Conductive Energy completed test-work on a 200L sample of concentrated eluate shipped in May 2024 to optimise the downstream process before receiving the larger volume shipments
- The conversion test-work produced multiple samples of lithium carbonate with 99.75% lithium carbonate purity demonstrating that the process achieves targets and is repeatable
- The result is a first confirmation that a process has been developed that will efficiently produce battery-grade lithium for the Laguna Verde project from pilot scale DLE eluate
- CleanTech Lithium continues to be a leader in exploration and development of DLE based projects in Chile and this pilot scale production will provide large test samples of lithium carbonate to potential offtake partners seeking product qualification.
- Subject to the completion of the re-injection well in September, the reserve report for Laguna Verde is scheduled to be completed by Montgomery and Associates in October 2024.
Steve Kesler, Executive Chairman and Interim CEO, of CleanTech Lithium PLC, said:
"We are very pleased by these results as it shows we can produce battery-grade lithium with low impurities from our Laguna Verde brine project. Working with our partners on the downstream process, Forward Water and Conductive Energy, we can now demonstrate the entire DLE process from brine to final lithium product.
"The optimised downstream process will now be applied to the initial volume of 88m3 of concentrated eluate, or approximately 1 tonne of LCE, produced from the first stage of production from our DLE pilot plant. This will produce significant test sample volumes of battery-grade lithium carbonate for commencement of testing with potential strategic partners. This is important whilst the Chilean government is reviewing the feasibility of lithium projects to identify the most advanced companies in Chile and if they are to reach their target of having three to four new lithium projects in development by 2026."
Further Information
Pilot Plant in Copiapó First Stage Production Completed
The Company´s DLE pilot plant is in Copiapó, Chile, approximately 275km from Laguna Verde. The plant finished commissioning in late March 2024 and up until mid-June a total volume of 1196m3 of brine from the Laguna Verde project was processed in the plant with a total of 14 cycles completed. Each cycle represents a volume of brine being fed first through filtration to remove suspended solids, then into DLE columns which are filled with adsorbent designed to be selective for lithium molecules. Lithium, as lithium chloride, is adsorbed from the brine, before desorption with water to create a purified lithium chloride eluate. A reverse osmosis (RO) unit at the DLE pilot plant then concentrates the eluate by extracting approximately 75% of the water to form a concentrated eluate.
Averaged across the 14 cycles, the recovery rate achieved by adsorption of lithium by the adsorbent was 95% and the recovery rate of desorption from the adsorbent was 93%. The total recovery rate averaged 88% and was highly consistent as shown in Figure 1. The temperature of the brine and desorption water, using the average ambient temperature in Copiapó during the March to June period of operation, was in the range of 20oC to 25oC, which did not significantly affect the recovery achieved.
Figure 1: Pilot Plant Total Recovery Rate
The eluate production rate was relatively stable after the initial ramp up period achieving an average of 2.8 kg LCE per hour. The design of the plant is 1 tonne per month of LCE based on designed monthly operating schedule of 360 hours. Due to budget and volume considerations, the plant was run for 384 hours for the first stage of planned operation producing a total of 1.085 tonnes of LCE as eluate. Based on the hourly production rate this met and exceeded the design capacity of the plant.
Figure 2: Pilot Plant Production Rate (Kg LCE/hr in Eluate)
Selectivity of the adsorbent is another key performance parameter for a DLE operation. DLE primarily acts as a purification stage, recovering lithium chloride from the brine whilst rejecting other impurities. For all the major ions in the brine, apart from boron, the rejection rate was very high as shown in Fig. 3 below. More cycles will further validate this performance. The quality of the eluate was consistent over the first stage of production with the low level of impurities facilitating downstream conversion.
Figure 3: DLE Performance - Rejection of Major Impurities
After completion of the DLE stage, the eluate is concentrated using a reverse osmosis (RO) unit at the pilot plant. On completion of both stages the lithium grade in the purified lithium chloride eluate is over ten times higher than the feed brine. The concentrated eluate was then loaded into a flexitank in a standard shipping container and transported to the port of Caldera for shipment to North America.
Downstream Processing into Battery Grade LithiumCarbonate: Test-work Completed
For the conversion of the concentrated lithium chloride eluate into battery grade lithium carbonate, CleanTech Lithium has engaged a leading lithium processing company, Conductive Energy, based in Alberta, Canada, which has facilities in Chicago, USA, with key downstream processing units shown in Figure 4 below. The status of the concentrated eluate shipment is shown in Table 1 with processing to commence in August 2024.
Figure 4: Conductive Energy Carbonation Reactor Tank and Equipment for Washing, Filtering & Drying
In May 2024 CTL air-freighted a 200L sample of concentrated eluate from the pilot plant to Conductive Energy to undertake test-work to optimise the conversion process. The process steps are shown in Figure 5, involving a further stage of RO, before using Forward Osmosis (FO) to achieve a very high level of concentration. Ion exchange (IX) is used to remove calcium, magnesium, and boron. The final steps are carbonation and then washing, filtration and drying to produce a battery grade product. Conductive Energy´s approach is to simplify the process that achieves maximum yield by minimizing process steps and, where losses occur, produce fluids that are easily recycled to further maximize yield.
Figure 5: Conductive Energy Conversion Process
Reverse Osmosis and Forward Osmosis
The increase in eluate and lithium concentration in the R/O and F/O stages are shown in Table 2 below. R/O is effective for concentration until Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) reach the level of approximately 60,000 - 70,000 TDS, after which it is increasingly energy intensive and costly. F/O is highly effective in further concentration to the required lithium grade for carbonation, in this case 18,000mg Li/L (or 1.8% Lithium). The F/O unit is provided by Forward Water Technology, another Canadian company based in Ontario. F/O achieves a high concentration factor with much lower energy use than the alternative of using a mechanical evaporator, while being highly suitable for utilising solar thermal as the energy source to power the F/O process.
Parameter | Unit | Concentrated Eluate | R/O Concentrate | F/O Concentrate |
Lithium (Li) | mg/L | 2,194 | 5,700 | 18,000 |
Chloride (Cl) | mg/L | 11,039 | 37,000 | 110,000 |
Boron (B) | mg/L | 411 | 850 | 1,700 |
Calcium (Ca) | mg/L | 7 | 29 | 85 |
Magnesium (Mg) | mg/L | 14 | 50 | 150 |
Sodium (Na) | mg/L | 134 | 400 | 1,400 |
Sulphate (SO4) | mg/L | 103 | 120 | 330 |
Total Dissolve Solids (TDS) | mg/L | 19,260 | 62,000 | 190,000 |
Volume | L | 215.5 | 66.3 | 13.9 |
Reduction in Volume | % | 69.3% | 93.5% | |
Laboratory | ALS Chile | Lambton.Scientific | Lambton.Scientific |
Table 2: Results from concentration of Laguna Verde eluate through R/O followed by F/O
Ion Exchange to Remove Impurities
Ion exchange (IX) was used for removal of calcium and magnesium, which achieved 85% and 87% reductions respectively. While feed concentrations were low, 100% of barium and manganese were also removed in the same process. Additional optimization is possible with potential for further calcium removal. Lithium loss was low at 3%.
Conductive then applied its optimised IX for removal of boron. This was highly effective achieving >99.5% removal of boron. However, there was a 22% loss of lithium to the regeneration fluid. This would be recaptured by recycling the regeneration fluid to the F/O feed which was not implemented for this small-scale test-work. The lithium loss from the boron IX is expected to be reduced (recovered) to a steady state loss rate of about 3%.
Carbonation and Battery Grade Lithium Sample
The carbonation test-work achieved an exceptional yield of 96% of the theoretical maximum. The final product, after the wash procedure, was 99.75% lithium carbonate purity as shown in Table 3. Further optimisation of the washing stage is planned in order to reduce impurities to the greatest extent possible and therefore maximise the value of the battery grade product.
Table 3: Process test-work lithium carbonate sample purity Fig. 6: Test-work sample
Additional Operations
Laguna Verde Reserve Report Update
The next stage of resource evaluation at the Laguna Verde project is to produce an updated JORC compliant resource and a reserve report based on converting a portion of resources into reserves. The management of the resource evaluation programme and reserve report is led by Montgomery and Associates, a leading hydrogeology consultant with extensive experience in resource evaluation of lithium brine projects in Chile and Argentina. Reserve estimation will feed directly into the Pre-Feasibility Study which is targeted for later this year.
The reserve calculation requires the completion of pumping tests and a re-injection well at the project which is scheduled for September 2024, when drilling equipment can be re-mobilised after the current winter break in operations. Subject to the completion of the re-injection well in September, the reserve report is scheduled to be completed by Montgomery and Associates in October 2024.
Competent Persons
The following professional acts as qualified person, as defined in the AIM Note for Mining, Oil and Gas Companies (June 2009) and JORC Code (2012):
Marcelo Bravo: Chemical Engineer (Universidad Católica del Norte), has a Master's Degree in Engineering Sciences major in Mineral Processing, Universidad de Antofagasta. He currently works as a Senior Process Consulting Engineer at the Ad-Infinitum company. Mr Bravo has relevant experience in researching and developing potassium, lithium carbonate, and solar evapo-concentration design processes in Chile, Argentina, and Bolivia. Mr Bravo, who has reviewed and approved the information contained in the chapters relevant to his expertise contained in this announcement, is registered with No. 412 in the public registry of Competent Persons in Mining Resources and Reserves per the Law of Persons Competent and its Regulations in force in Chile. Mr Bravo has sufficient experience relevant to the metallurgical tests and the type of subsequent processing of the extracted brines under consideration and to the activity being carried out to qualify as a competent person, as defined in the JORC Code. Mr Bravo consents to the inclusion in the press release of the matters based on his information in the form and context in which it appears.
The information communicated within this announcement is deemed to constitute inside information as stipulated under the Market Abuse Regulations (EU) No 596/2014 which is part of UK law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018. Upon publication of this announcement, this inside information is now considered to be in the public domain. The person who arranged for the release of this announcement on behalf of the Company was Gordon Stein, Director and CFO.
Appointment of Strategic Advisor
White Cliff Minerals Limited (“WCN” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce the appointment of John Hancock (“John”) as a Strategic Advisor to the Board of White Cliff Minerals Ltd. The Company expects significant growth with its current and future portfolio of projects in the coming 12 months and is working now to secure appropriate personnel to assist with this.
About John Hancock
John’s experience in the mining and exploration industry began more than 40 years ago visiting Pilbara iron ore prospects with his grandfather, Lang Hancock. During the 1990s he was part of marketing missions representing the Hope Downs Iron Ore project to customers and investors in China, Japan and Germany, including co-presenting the project at the 1997 Iron and Steel Conference held in Berlin. After two years working in South Africa with Iscor Mining (now Kumba) and on return to Australia completing an MBA, John transitioned to the role of investor and over the last 20 years has built a record of successful early stage investments in Lithium and Uranium, including substantial holdings in Vulcan Energy and Aura Energy. His experience in international resource development and capital markets includes the role of Senior Advisor to The Lind Partners, a US fund that during his tenure has deployed more than $500m to small-cap companies in both Australia and Canada, particularly within the mining industry.
The Board views John’s appointment at this pivotal time in the Company’s evolution to be a logical next step as we move to complete our stated strategy of a three-project portfolio in Canada as well as significantly expand our exploration work at both Great Bear Lake and the Rae Copper (Nunavut-Coppermine) Project.
“Attracting someone of John’s experience and calibre is a great development for White Cliff. John has an extensive international network and is a successful resources veteran with deep roots within the mining industry. I look forward to working with John as we execute this next corporate step and continue to unlock the untapped potential of all of the Company’s projects”
Troy Whittaker - Managing Director
“I am not alone in looking for copper, and have been searching for an early-stage investment to complement my exposure to lithium and uranium. Copper is a vital ingredient to a clean energy transition and as my grandfather said, ‘minerals don’t grow on trees, every year you need to find more’ and today this means searching further and further afield. White Cliff have secured a large holding in an area with historical production and exciting preliminary indications which led me to become an investor and now Strategic Advisor to the Board. I, like Troy and the Board are looking forward to the upcoming assay results from our maiden campaign where we have visually identified numerous highly prospective areas”
John Hancock
Click here for the full ASX Release
This article includes content from White Cliff Minerals Limited, licensed for the purpose of publishing on Investing News Australia. This article does not constitute financial product advice. It is your responsibility to perform proper due diligence before acting upon any information provided here. Please refer to our full disclaimer here.
Top 3 ASX Lithium Stocks of 2024
Global demand for lithium-based power presents a significant opportunity for Australia, the top lithium-producing nation. As countries and companies establish their positions in the battery value chain, Australia has the ability to leverage its strong output and vast reserves to shape the industry landscape into the 2030s.
The future of lithium demand relies heavily on the growth of the electric vehicle (EV) market, and in recent years its rapid expansion has led to much higher mining of the commodity — so much so that the market has entered a surplus.
This oversupply kept lithium prices subdued in the first half of 2024, but experts continue to forecast a bright long-term outlook for the essential battery material as countries around the world pursue net-zero goals.
Here the Investing News Network looks at the top three ASX-listed lithium companies by year-to-date gains. The list below was generated using TradingView’s stock screener on July 16, 2024, and includes companies that had market caps above AU$10 million at that time. Read on to learn more about their activities over the past year.
1. Prospect Resources (ASX:PSC)
Year-to-date gain: 57.38 percent; market cap: AU$64.62 million; share price: AU$0.14
Africa-focused explorer Prospect Resources holds a diversified portfolio of assets located in Zimbabwe, Zambia and Namibia. The company’s lithium projects, Omaruru and Step Aside, are in Namibia and Zimbabwe, respectively.
In late June, Prospect released an update on its exploration activities at the projects. The company reported strong assay results from Phase 4 diamond drilling at Step Aside, and shared results from follow-up Phase 2 drilling at Omaruru.
In a release, Managing Director Sam Hosack highlights the significant mineralisation potential at both projects.
Moving forward, Prospect plans to slow down spending at its lithium projects as it turns to its newly acquired Mumbezhi copper project. The company believes it can monetise Step Aside in the near term to aid in this goal.
Company shares rose to an H1 high of AU$2.05 on May 27.
2. Vulcan Energy Resources (ASX:VUL)
Year-to-date gain: 53.79 percent; market cap: AU$867.55 million; current share price: AU$4.46
Europe-focused Vulcan Energy Resources aims to support a carbon-neutral future by producing lithium and renewable energy from geothermal brine. The company is currently developing the Zero Carbon lithium project in Germany's Upper Rhine Valley. Vulcan is utilising a proprietary alumina-based adsorbent-type direct lithium extraction process to produce lithium with an end goal of supplying sustainable lithium for the European EV market.
On April 11, Vulcan announced the commencement of lithium chloride production at its lithium extraction optimisation plant in Germany. According to the company, the milestone marks the first lithium chemical production in Europe using local supply. The plant consistently exhibited over 90 percent lithium extraction efficiency.
Vulcan will now prepare the 40 million euro facility for commercial production. The company already has binding lithium offtake agreements in place with major automakers and battery manufacturers, and expects to supply enough lithium for 500,000 EVs during the first phase of production.
Shares of Vulcan marked an H1 high on May 22, trading for AU$5.54.
3. Anson Resources (ASX:ASN)
Year-to-date gain: 11.11 percent; market cap: AU$200.03 million; share price: AU$0.15
Anson Resources holds a portfolio of projects in the US and Western Australia. Its primary asset is the Paradox lithium project in Utah, which Anson is transforming into a major lithium production operation for the North American market.
On May 8, Anson received approval from Utah's Department of Natural Resources to source water, or brine, for lithium extraction at its Green River lithium project. The permit allows the non-consumptive use of 19 cubic feet of brine, which the company will process and then return to its original geological formation.
This is the company’s first permit approval for lithium production from brine in Utah.
In late June, Anson partnered with Koch Technology Solutions to use Koch's Li-Pro process for a pilot Lithium Selective Sorption unit at the Green River lithium project.
The pilot project, funded jointly by Anson Resources and Koch through a convertible note, will be used to collect data for the potential launch of a commercial-scale plant using the technology. It is expected to enter pilot production in July.
Shares of Anson marked a year-to-date high of AU$0.16 on July 10.
FAQs for investing in lithium
What is lithium?
Lithium is the lightest metal on the periodic table, and it is used in a wide variety of applications, including lithium-ion batteries, pharmaceuticals and industrial applications like glass and steel.
How do lithium-ion batteries work?
Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries work by using the flow of lithium ions in the battery's cell to power a device.
A lithium-ion battery has one or more cells, depending on the amount of energy storage it is capable of, and each cell has a positive electrode and negative electrode with an electrolyte separating them. When the battery is in use, lithium ions flow from the negative electrode to the positive electrode, running out of power once all have transferred. When the battery is charging, ions flow the opposite way.
Where is lithium mined?
Lithium is mined from two types of deposits, hard rock and evaporated brines. Most of the world's lithium production comes out of Australia, which hosts the Greenbushes hard-rock lithium mine. The next-largest producing country is Chile, which like Argentina and Bolivia is located in South America's Lithium Triangle.
Lithium in this famed area comes from evaporated brines, including the Salar de Atacama. Lithium can also be found in sedimentary deposits, but currently none are producing.
Where is lithium found in Australia?
Australia is the world’s top producer of lithium, and its lithium mines are all located in Western Australia except for one, which is Core Lithium’s (ASX:CXO,OTC Pink:CXOXF) Finniss mine in the Northern Territory. Western Australia accounts for around half of global lithium production, and the state is looking to become a hub for critical elements.
Who owns lithium mines in Australia?
Several companies own lithium mines in Australia, including some of the biggest ASX lithium stocks. In addition to the entities discussed above, others include: Pilbara Minerals (ASX:PLS,OTC Pink:PILBF) with its Pilgangoora operations; Arcadium Lithium with the Mount Cattlin mine; Jiangxi Ganfeng Lithium (HKEX:0358), which owns the Mount Marion mine alongside Mineral Resources (ASX:MIN,OTC Pink:MALRF); and Tianqi Lithium (SZSE:002466), which is a partial owner of Greenbushes via its stake in operator Talison Lithium.
Who is Australia’s largest lithium producer?
Australia’s largest lithium producer is Albemarle (NYSE:ALB), which has interests in both the Greenbushes and Wodgina hard-rock lithium mines. Greenbushes is the world’s largest lithium mine, and Albemarle holds 49 percent ownership of operator Talison Lithium’s parent company.
Albermarle also has 60 percent ownership of Mineral Resources’ Wodgina mine, and owns the Kemerton lithium production facility as part of a 60/40 joint venture with Mineral Resources.
Don’t forget to follow us @INN_Australia for real-time updates!
Securities Disclosure: I, Georgia Williams, currently hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.
Further IOCG, Copper and Epithermal Mineralisation Discovered at Great Bear Lake U-Cu-Ag-Au Project
Works commence at Nunavut Cu-Ag-Au Project
White Cliff Minerals Limited (“WCN” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that further widespread, IOCG-U polymetallic, mineralisation has been visually observed during the maiden fieldwork program at the 100% owned Great Bear Lake U-Cu- Au-Ag Project in northern Canada and that works have now commenced at the 100% owned Nunavut Cu-Ag-Au Project.
- A total of 4 large IOCG hydrothermal systems now identified and sampled within the Project area, all prospects are visibly mineralised with chalcopyrite +/- bornite and associated copper secondary minerals
- Newly discovered “Cleaver” project, a broad zone of chalcopyrite bearing alteration at surface indicating a large and fertile IOCG system is in place.
- Cleaver includes large scale deep seated structures with widespread earthy hematite alteration (including Uranium up to 4000 counts per second (CPS)) and secondary copper
- Further groundwork at Spud Bay (north) has identified widespread copper mineralisation along a structural corridor that can be traced for 450m N/S before disappearing under cover that including surficial bornite
- This newly identified structure at Spud Bay adds to the existing 700 m E/W trend and native silver occurrence discovered just 530 meters along strike from the historic Bonanza and El Bonanza silver mines
- The Company’s subcontractor Expert Geophysics has completed the MobileMT airborne geophysical program at Great Bear Lake and has now mobilised and will commence work at the Nunavut Cu-Ag-Au Project.
- Assay results from the sampling program to follow with all samples now with the Laboratories for multi- element analysis with results expected in the coming weeks
“The IOCG potential of this project continues to grow. As we have seen from this latest round of exploration, we continue to discover targets that represent newly identified, spatially separate mineralised systems, indicating the opportunity for multiple discoveries.
The completion of MobileMT survey delivers another significant milestone for stakeholders. The Data returned from this detailed survey is expected to work well given the outcropping mineralisation fresh rock and lack of overburden. We will, integrate this information into our planning and in conjunction with the field observations and having a clear understanding of the topography and local onsite conditions we will have a complete and detailed understanding in readiness for our upcoming drilling campaign and various site visits that are planned.
Adding to the excitement of these discoveries at Great Bear Lake - works will shortly commence in Nunavut where we are targeting high-grade, volcanic hosted copper-silver lodes which are prospective for high grade vein fill and bulk tonne sedimentary hosted copper deposits. To date we have executed a seamless and zero injury first pass programme at Great Bear thanks to our highly professional consultants as well as our staff. Next is planning and preparations for drilling at Great Bear and the completion of the first pass field activities and surveys at Nunavut. All in all things could not have gone better and we look forward to drilling later this season”
Troy Whittaker - Managing Director
In relation to the disclosure of visual mineralisation, the Company cautions that visual estimates of sulphide and oxide material abundance should never be considered a proxy or substitute for laboratory analysis. Laboratory assay results are required to determine the widths and grade of visible mineralisation reported in sampling. The Company will update the market when laboratory analytical results become available, which are expected within 3-5 weeks.
Click here for the full ASX Release
This article includes content from White Cliff Minerals Limited, licensed for the purpose of publishing on Investing News Australia. This article does not constitute financial product advice. It is your responsibility to perform proper due diligence before acting upon any information provided here. Please refer to our full disclaimer here.
Top 6 Lithium Stocks of 2024
Now that Q2 has come to a close, it's time to look at the year's best-performing lithium stocks on Canadian, US and Australian exchanges.
While oversupply and weak prices kept some companies from registering big gains during the first half of 2024, others like those below still saw share price grow.Unlike the fluctuations observed in 2023, the lithium market has exhibited greater stability during the first half of 2024.
However, influenced by weak prices in China, the lithium hydroxide market has seen prices remain lower than anticipated.
Market oversupply prompted some lithium producers to trim 2024 output targets in hopes that some of the excess would be absorbed in the market.
Spending for project expansions and new developments was also put on the back burner to allow the market to rebalance.
“Several factors will play a crucial role in shaping the trajectory of lithium hydroxide prices,” notes a June report from Fastmarkets. “These include the pace of EV adoption globally, advancements in battery technology that may affect lithium hydroxide demand, geopolitical tensions that could impact lithium supply chains and environmental policies that may influence mining and production practices."
Despite some of the challenges the lithium market faced in the first half of the year, the companies profiled below have all seen significant gains so far in 2024.
The list was generated using TradingView’s stock screener and data was gathered on July 16, 2024. While US lithium companies were considered for the list, none were up year-to-date at the time data was gathered. All top lithium stocks had market caps above $10 million in their respective currencies when data was gathered.
1. Lithium Chile (TSXV:LITH)
Year-to-date gains: 32.08 percent; market cap: C$148.56 million; share price: C$0.70
South America-focused Lithium Chile owns several lithium land packages in Chile and Argentina. Presently, the explorer is working to delineate the deposit at its Salar de Arizaro property in Argentina.
In early April, Lithium Chile announced a 24 percent increase in the resource estimate for its Salar de Arizaro project in Argentina, according to an updated NI 43-101 compliant resource report. The new total for the project is 4.12 million metric tons (MT) of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE), categorized as follows: 261,000 MT in the measured category, 2.24 million MT in the indicated category and 1.62 million MT in the inferred category.
On April 18, the company reported the creation of two wholly owned Canadian subsidiaries, Lithium Chile 2.0 and Kairos Gold, as part of a spinout to separate its Chilean and Argentinian assets. Lithium Chile will retain its Argentinian lithium projects, and transfer its 111,978 hectares of Chilean lithium properties to Lithium Chile 2.0 and its portfolio of gold assets in Chile to Kairos Gold.
After trending upwards through Q1, shares of Lithium Chile reached a year-to-date high of C$0.88 on March 21.
2. Q2 Metals (TSXV:QTWO)
Year-to-date gain: 32 percent; market cap: C$28.46 million; current share price: C$0.325
Exploration firm Q2 Metals is exploring its flagship Mia lithium property in the Eeyou Istchee James Bay region of Québec, Canada. The property contains the Mia trend, which spans over 10 kilometers. Also included in Q2's portfolio is the Stellar lithium property, comprising 77 claims and located 6 kilometers north of the Mia property.
This year, Q2 has also focused on exploring the Cisco lithium property, located in the same region, after entering into an option agreement on February 29. The news caused Q2's share price to skyrocket, and it reached a year-to-date high of C$0.54 on March 4.
In mid-May, Q2 released re-assayed results from 2023 drilling conducted at Cisco by the property's vendors using the analytical method Q2 applies to its Mia drill cores.
“We are pleased with the positive outcome of the re-analysis of the Cisco drill results,” said Q2 Metals VP of Exploration Neil McCallum. “A thorough review of the quality control measures has solidified that the new results are more accurate than the original results previously announced. It’s not an unexpected change as the analytical methods now used are more accurate at higher grades above roughly 1.5 percent Li2O and we have several samples above that range.”
Later that month the company announced the start of its summer drill program at the Cisco property, and has since released multiple significant updates, including the confirmation of eight new mineralized zones on July 8.
Q2 closed the acquisition in June and now owns a 100 percent interest in Cisco.
3. Rock Tech Lithium (TSXV:RCK)
Year-to-date gain: 14.81 percent; market cap: C$163.05 million; current share price: C$1.55
Rock Tech Lithium is developing upstream and downstream lithium capabilities. The company’s approach includes the production of sustainably sourced spodumene feedstock from its Ontario-based Georgia Lake project, as well as the construction of lithium hydroxide converters starting with its Guben Converter in Brandenburg, Germany.
In May, Rock Tech received its construction and operations permits for Guben, which has a planned annual capacity of 24,000 MT of lithium hydroxide monohydrate. In the years to come, the company expects to source raw material from recycling discarded batteries, pledging to have 50 percent of its feedstock at its German convertors come from recycled lithium by 2030.
On June 24, Rock Tech received a binding letter of intent from Brandenburg's Minister for Economic Affairs for up to 90 million euros in subsidies for its Guben Convertor.
Additionally, the company’s application for federal funding from the German Railway Authority is progressing well, potentially securing another 10 million euros in grants. Rock Tech plans to use this funding to help shift transport from road to rail.
Shares of Rock Tech reached a H1 high of C$2.01 on June 5.
1. Prospect Resources (ASX:PSC)
Year-to-date gain: 57.38 percent; market cap: AU$64.62 million; share price: AU$0.14
Africa-focused explorer Prospect Resources holds a diversified portfolio of assets located in Zimbabwe, Zambia and Namibia. The company’s lithium projects, Omaruru and Step Aside, are in Namibia and Zimbabwe, respectively.
In late June, Prospect released an update on its exploration activities at the projects. The company reported strong assay results from Phase 4 diamond drilling at Step Aside, and shared results from follow-up Phase 2 drilling at Omaruru.
In a release, Managing Director Sam Hosack highlights the significant mineralization potential at both projects.
Moving forward, Prospect plans to slow down spending at its lithium projects as it turns to its newly acquired Mumbezhi copper project. The company believes it can monetize Step Aside in the near term to aid in this goal.
Company shares rose to an H1 high of AU$2.05 on May 27.
2. Vulcan Energy Resources (ASX:VUL)
Year-to-date gain: 53.79 percent; market cap: AU$867.55 million; current share price: AU$4.46
Europe-focused Vulcan Energy Resources aims to support a carbon-neutral future by producing lithium and renewable energy from geothermal brine. The company is currently developing the Zero Carbon lithium project in Germany's Upper Rhine Valley. Vulcan is utilizing a proprietary alumina-based adsorbent-type direct lithium extraction process to produce lithium with an end goal of supplying sustainable lithium for the European EV market.
On April 11, Vulcan announced the commencement of lithium chloride production at its lithium extraction optimization plant in Germany. According to the company, the milestone marks the first lithium chemical production in Europe using local supply. The plant consistently exhibited over 90 percent lithium extraction efficiency.
Vulcan will now prepare the 40 million euro facility for commercial production. The company already has binding lithium offtake agreements in place with major automakers and battery manufacturers, and expects to supply enough lithium for 500,000 EVs during the first phase of production.
Shares of Vulcan marked an H1 high on May 22, trading for AU$5.54.
3. Anson Resources (ASX:ASN)
Year-to-date gain: 11.11 percent; market cap: AU$200.03 million; share price: AU$0.15
Anson Resources holds a portfolio of projects in the US and Western Australia. Its primary asset is the Paradox lithium project in Utah, which Anson is transforming into a major lithium production operation for the North American market.
On May 8, Anson received approval from Utah's Department of Natural Resources to source water, or brine, for lithium extraction at its Green River lithium project. The permit allows the non-consumptive use of 19 cubic feet of brine, which the company will process and then return to its original geological formation.
This is the company’s first permit approval for lithium production from brine in Utah.
In late June, Anson partnered with Koch Technology Solutions to use Koch's Li-Pro process for a pilot Lithium Selective Sorption unit at the Green River lithium project.
The pilot project, funded jointly by Anson Resources and Koch through a convertible note, will be used to collect data for the potential launch of a commercial-scale plant using the technology. It is expected to enter pilot production in July.
Shares of Anson marked a year-to-date high of AU$0.16 on July 10.
FAQs for investing in lithium
How much lithium is on Earth?
While we don't know how much total lithium is on Earth, the US Geological Survey estimates that global reserves stand at 22 billion MT. Of that, 9.2 billion MT are located in Chile, and 5.7 billion MT are in Australia.
Where is lithium mined?
Lithium is mined throughout the world, but the two countries that produce the most are Australia and Chile. Australia's lithium comes from primarily hard-rock deposits, while Chile's comes from lithium brines. Chile is part of the Lithium Triangle alongside Argentina and Bolivia, although those two countries have a lower annual output.
Rounding out the top five lithium-producing countries behind Australia and Chile are China, Argentina and Brazil.
What is lithium used for?
While the lithium-ion batteries that power electric vehicles, smartphones and other tech have been making waves, it is also used in pharmaceuticals, ceramics, grease, lubricants and heat-resistant glass. Still, it is largely the electric vehicle industry that is boosting demand.
How to invest in lithium?
Unlike many commodities, investors cannot physically hold lithium due to its dangerous properties. However, those looking to get into the lithium market have many options when it comes to how to invest in lithium.
Lithium stocks like those mentioned above could be a good option for investors interested in the space. If you’re looking to diversify instead of focusing on one stock, there is the Global X Lithium & Battery Tech ETF (NYSE:LIT), an exchange-traded fund (ETF) focused on the metal. Experienced investors can also look at lithium futures.
How to buy lithium stocks?
Lithium stocks can be found globally on various exchanges. Through the use of a broker or an investing service such as an app, investors can purchase individual stocks and ETFs that match their investing outlook.
Before buying a lithium stock, potential investors should take time to research the companies they’re considering; they should also decide how many shares will be purchased, and what price they are willing to pay. With many options on the market, it's critical to complete due diligence before making any investment decisions.
It's also important for investors to keep their goals in mind when choosing their investing method. There are many factors to consider when choosing a broker, as well as when looking at investing apps — a few of these include the broker or app's reputation, their fee structure and investment style.
Don’t forget to follow us @INN_Resource for real-time updates!
Securities Disclosure: I, Georgia Williams, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.
Top 5 Canadian Lithium Stocks of 2024
Continued surpluses in the lithium market have weighed down prices and impeded the sector’s growth during the second quarter of 2024. The excess has been attributed to heightened production in 2021 and 2022 amid higher lithium prices.
According to a July Fastmarkets report, increased lithium demand is fully priced into the market. China's lithium carbonate equivalent production from lepidolite rose by 126 percent year-over-year in April, while spodumene production increased by 109 percent. The accumulation of inventory suggests that there is no immediate supply shortage, but time is needed for demand to absorb the surplus.
With so much excess in the market, many lithium producers and explorers have struggled to see positive share price activity. However, several Canadian-listed lithium companies were able to see some growth during the first half of the year.
The Investing News Network has created an overview of the top 5 Canadian lithium stocks listed on the TSX, TSXV and CSE. This list was created on July 16, 2024, using TradingView‘s stock screener, and all data was current at that time. Only companies with market caps above C$10 million for TSX and TSXV and above C$5 million for CSE are included.
1. Volt Lithium (TSXV:VLT)
Year-to-date gains: 36.96 percent; market cap: C$31.41 million; share price: C$0.315
Volt Lithium is a lithium development and technology company aiming to become a premier North American lithium producer utilizing its unique technology to extract lithium from oilfield brine.
Shares of Volt Lithium reached an H1 high of C$0.36 on April 25, 2024.
On April 29, Volt announced a strategic investment of US$1.5 million by an unnamed company operating in the Delaware Basin in West Texas. This investment is earmarked for the deployment of a field unit to produce lithium hydroxide monohydrate using Volt's proprietary direct lithium extraction technology.
The company's share price retreated in the second half of Q2, but July 17 news that Volt increased its processing capacity at its operations in Alberta, Canada, by 100 fold to 96,000 liters per day caused its price to shoot up more than C$0.08 during trading that day.
Volt stated in the press release that it is on track to deploy its first field unit at its Canadian operations in Q3.
2. Lithium Chile (TSXV:LITH)
Year-to-date gains: 32.08 percent; market cap: C$144.43 million; share price: C$0.70
South America-focused Lithium Chile owns several lithium land packages in Chile and Argentina. Presently, the explorer is working to delineate the deposit at its Salar de Arizaro property in Argentina.
In early April, Lithium Chile announced a 24 percent increase in the resource estimate for its Salar de Arizaro project in Argentina, according to an updated NI 43-101 compliant resource report. The new total for the project is 4.12 million metric tons (MT) of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE), categorized as follows: 261,000 MT in the measured category, 2.24 million MT in the indicated category and 1.62 million MT in the inferred category.
On April 18, the company reported the creation of two wholly owned Canadian subsidiaries, Lithium Chile 2.0 and Kairos Gold, as part of a spinout to separate its Chilean and Argentinian assets. Lithium Chile will retain its Argentinian lithium projects, and transfer its 111,978 hectares of Chilean lithium properties to Lithium Chile 2.0 and its portfolio of gold assets in Chile to Kairos Gold.
After trending upwards through Q1, shares of Lithium Chile reached a year-to-date high of C$0.88 on March 21.
3. Foremost Lithium (CSE:FAT)
Year-to-date gains: 18.99 percent; market cap: C$22.49 million; share price: C$4.01
Foremost Lithium is an exploration company with several hard rock lithium properties, which it calls the Lithium Lane projects, in the Snow Lake district of Manitoba, Canada, as well as the Lac Simard South project in Québec, Canada.
In January, Foremost received its third C$300,000 grant from the Manitoba Mineral Development Fund. The funds have been earmarked for continued exploration and drilling at the Snow Lake property.
Shares of the company hit a year-to-date high of C$4.51 in late February, when Foremost released promising intercepts from its winter drill program at its Zoro lithium project in Manitoba.
In May, the company completed the winter drill program at the Zoro project, which encompassed 21 diamond drill holes. According to the statement, the preliminary results “demonstrated the continuity of lithium mineralization along Dyke 1.”
In early June, Foremost announced plans to spin out its Winston gold-silver project in New Mexico, US, into a new wholly-owned subsidiary, Rio Grande Resources. Winston includes three historic mine sites.
4. Q2 Metals (TSXV:QTWO)
Year-to-date gain: 18 percent; market cap: C$36.12 million; share price: C$0.295
Exploration firm Q2 Metals is exploring its flagship Mia lithium property in the Eeyou Istchee James Bay region of Québec, Canada. The property contains the Mia trend, which spans over 10 kilometers. Also included in Q2's portfolio is the Stellar lithium property, comprising 77 claims and located 6 kilometers north of the Mia property.
This year, Q2 has also focused on exploring the Cisco lithium property, located in the same region, after entering into an option agreement on February 29. The news caused Q2's share price to skyrocket, and it reached a year-to-date high of C$0.54 on March 4.
In mid-May, Q2 released re-assayed results from 2023 drilling conducted at Cisco by the property's vendors using the analytical method Q2 applies to its Mia drill cores.
“We are pleased with the positive outcome of the re-analysis of the Cisco drill results,” said Q2 Metals VP of Exploration Neil McCallum. “A thorough review of the quality control measures has solidified that the new results are more accurate than the original results previously announced. It’s not an unexpected change as the analytical methods now used are more accurate at higher grades above roughly 1.5 percent Li2O and we have several samples above that range.”
Later that month the company announced the start of its summer drill program at the Cisco property, and has since released multiple significant updates, including the confirmation of eight new mineralized zones on July 8.
Q2 closed the acquisition in June and now owns a 100 percent interest in Cisco.
5. Rock Tech Lithium (TSXV:RCK)
Year-to-date gain: 8.89 percent; market cap: C$156.98 million; share price: C$1.47
Rock Tech Lithium is developing upstream and downstream lithium capabilities. The company’s approach includes the production of sustainably sourced spodumene feedstock from its Ontario-based Georgia Lake project, as well as the construction of lithium hydroxide converters in Europe.
In the years to come, the company expects to source raw material from recycling discarded batteries, pledging to have 50 percent of its feedstock at its German converters come from recycled lithium by 2030.
On June 24, Rock Tech received a binding letter of intent from Brandenburg's Minister for Economic Affairs, Joerg Steinbach, for up to 90 million Euros in subsidies for the Guben project located in Germany.
Additionally, the company’s application for federal funding from the German Railway Authority is progressing well, potentially securing another 10 million Euros in grants. This funding, expected under the "Anschlussbahnförderung," will aid in shifting transport from road to rail, a key element of the project's logistics strategy.
Shares of Rock Tech reached a H1 high of C$2.01 on June 5, 2024.
Don’t forget to follow us @INN_Resource for real-time news updates!
Securities Disclosure: I, Georgia Williams, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.
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