New Risk • Oct 06
New major risk - Shareholder dilution The company's shareholders have been substantially diluted in the past year. Increase in shares outstanding: 40% This is considered a major risk. Shareholder dilution occurs when there is an increase in the number of shares on issue that is not proportionally distributed between all shareholders. Often due to the company raising equity capital or some options being converted into stock. All else being equal, if there are more shares outstanding then each existing share will be entitled to a lower proportion of the company's total earnings, thus reducing earnings per share (EPS). While dilution might not always result in lower EPS (like if the company is using the capital to fund an EPS accretive acquisition) in a lot cases it does, along with lower dividends per share and less voting power at shareholder meetings. Currently, the following risks have been identified for the company: Major Risks Share price has been highly volatile over the past 3 months (34% average weekly change). Earnings have declined by 21% per year over the past 5 years. Shareholders have been substantially diluted in the past year (40% increase in shares outstanding). Revenue is less than US$1m (AU$103k revenue, or US$68k). Market cap is less than US$10m (AU$13.4m market cap, or US$8.82m). Annuncio • Sep 26
iTech Minerals Ltd, Annual General Meeting, Nov 24, 2025 iTech Minerals Ltd, Annual General Meeting, Nov 24, 2025. New Risk • Sep 10
New minor risk - Shareholder dilution The company's shareholders have been diluted in the past year. Increase in shares outstanding: 23% This is considered a minor risk. Shareholder dilution occurs when there is an increase in the number of shares on issue that is not proportionally distributed between all shareholders. Often due to the company raising equity capital or some options being converted into stock. All else being equal, if there are more shares outstanding then each existing share will be entitled to a lower proportion of the company's total earnings, thus reducing earnings per share (EPS). While dilution might not always result in lower EPS (like if the company is using the capital to fund an EPS accretive acquisition) in a lot cases it does, along with lower dividends per share and less voting power at shareholder meetings. Currently, the following risks have been identified for the company: Major Risks Share price has been highly volatile over the past 3 months (34% average weekly change). Earnings have declined by 21% per year over the past 5 years. Revenue is less than US$1m (AU$103k revenue, or US$68k). Market cap is less than US$10m (AU$10.3m market cap, or US$6.83m). Minor Risk Shareholders have been diluted in the past year (23% increase in shares outstanding). Annuncio • Sep 03
iTech Minerals Ltd has filed a Follow-on Equity Offering in the amount of AUD 1 million. iTech Minerals Ltd has filed a Follow-on Equity Offering in the amount of AUD 1 million.
Security Name: Ordinary Shares
Security Type: Common Stock
Securities Offered: 20,000,000
Price\Range: AUD 0.05 Annuncio • Sep 02
iTech Minerals Ltd has completed a Follow-on Equity Offering in the amount of AUD 2 million. iTech Minerals Ltd has completed a Follow-on Equity Offering in the amount of AUD 2 million.
Security Name: Common Stocks
Security Type: Common Stock
Securities Offered: 40,000,000
Price\Range: AUD 0.05
Discount Per Security: AUD 0.003
Transaction Features: Subsequent Direct Listing New Risk • Aug 19
New major risk - Share price stability The company's share price has been highly volatile over the past 3 months. It is more volatile than 90% of Australian stocks, typically moving 33% a week. This is considered a major risk. Share price volatility increases the risk of potential losses in the short-term as the stock tends to have larger drops in price more frequently than other stocks. It may also indicate the stock is highly sensitive to market conditions or economic conditions rather than being sensitive to its own business performance, which may also be inconsistent. Currently, the following risks have been identified for the company: Major Risks Less than 1 year of cash runway based on free cash flow trend (-AU$3.5m free cash flow). Share price has been highly volatile over the past 3 months (33% average weekly change). Earnings have declined by 25% per year over the past 5 years. Revenue is less than US$1m (AU$103k revenue, or US$67k). Market cap is less than US$10m (AU$12.3m market cap, or US$7.98m). Annuncio • Apr 08
iTech Minerals Ltd Commences Drilling on High Priority Copper - Gold (Cu-Au) Drill Targets iTech Minerals Ltd. announced that it has commenced on high priority Copper - Gold (Cu-Au) drill targets defined at the Scimitar Prospect, Reynolds Range, NT. Multiple vectors point to a potential substantial Cu-Au mineralised system at Scimitar. Regionally significant 5km x 4km multi element lag soil anomaly with elevated Cu, Au, Ag, Pb, Zn, Sb and As. Coincident, high conductivity, MLEM anomaly extending over 1.6km. Outcropping Cu-Ag-Au and Pb-Ag mineralisation in rock chips show fertile mineralising system extends to surface. The prospect is associated with a package of folded turbiditic sediments (Lander Group), surrounded by granitic units to the west and east. Local alteration around the Scimitar prospect includes chlorite, kaolinite, silica, sericite and pervasive iron staining. Malachite, pyrite, arsenopyrite and vein-hosted chalcopyrite closely associated with Au-Cu anomalism. Prodigy Gold NL planned to drill test Scimitar based on several modelled Electromagnetic (EM) anomalies including a 2400 siemens plate incorporating a 480m x 400m area conducive with Cu and base metal anomalism and a weaker 500 siemens plate the south-east with Cu-Ag-Zn-Pb. Two initial drillholes were designed to test the source of these EM and geochemical anomalies with a follow-up DHEM survey to proceed afterwards. A 400m drill hole (SCDD2001), was completed at the smaller 500 Siemen plate. This identified a thin intersection of pyrite, pyrrhotite, sphalerite and galena at ~286m as the likely source of the Ag-Pb-Zn anomalism, however failed to identify the conductive source. The stronger 2600S plate is yet to be tested due to rain constraints in the region at the time. The tracks and drill pads were identified during a recent field visit, and locations marked, with good access remaining available to main drill target. Moving Loop Electromagnetic Anomaly (MLEM) In September 2020, Prodigy Gold NL undertook a ground based MLEM survey over the Scimitar prospect, following up on an airborne TEMPEST EM anomaly, identified in a survey flown back in 2012. Preliminary modelling of the MLEM data by Resource Potentials identified 16 EM conductor plates over approximately 1.6km. Three high conductance plates were recommended to be drilled as high priority targets. RR24-013 - 950 g/t Ag, 5.3% Pb. RR24-012 - 88 g/t Ag and RR24-011 - 51 g/t Ag. Drill Targets.iTech has commenced drilling on the largest of two highest conductors (2600 Siemens and 1200 Siemens) identified from the 2020 MLEM survey. The targets will be tested with two 600m deep diamond drill holes which are oriented to intersect the middle of each conductive plate. Drilling of the second hole, on the smaller 1200 S conductor, is contingent on a successful outcome in identifying mineralisation as the source of conductivity in the first drill hole. Future Work.iTech has executed a contract to commence several induced polarisation (IP) and moving loop electromagnetic (MLEM) surveys over high priority gold-antimony prospects at Reynolds Range. New Risk • Mar 15
New minor risk - Financial data availability The company's latest financial reports are more than 6 months old. Last reported fiscal period ended June 2024. This is considered a minor risk. If the company has not reported its earnings on time, it may have been delayed due to audit problems or it may be finding it difficult to reconcile its accounts. Currently, the following risks have been identified for the company: Major Risks Revenue has declined by 100% over the past year. Shareholders have been substantially diluted in the past year (40% increase in shares outstanding). Revenue is less than US$1m. Market cap is less than US$10m (AU$8.20m market cap, or US$5.18m). Minor Risk Latest financial reports are more than 6 months old (reported June 2024 fiscal period end). New Risk • Jan 16
New major risk - Shareholder dilution The company's shareholders have been substantially diluted in the past year. Increase in shares outstanding: 40% This is considered a major risk. Shareholder dilution occurs when there is an increase in the number of shares on issue that is not proportionally distributed between all shareholders. Often due to the company raising equity capital or some options being converted into stock. All else being equal, if there are more shares outstanding then each existing share will be entitled to a lower proportion of the company's total earnings, thus reducing earnings per share (EPS). While dilution might not always result in lower EPS (like if the company is using the capital to fund an EPS accretive acquisition) in a lot cases it does, along with lower dividends per share and less voting power at shareholder meetings. Currently, the following risks have been identified for the company: Major Risks Revenue has declined by 100% over the past year. Shareholders have been substantially diluted in the past year (40% increase in shares outstanding). Revenue is less than US$1m. Market cap is less than US$10m (AU$9.73m market cap, or US$6.06m). Annuncio • Sep 25
iTech Minerals Ltd, Annual General Meeting, Nov 25, 2024 iTech Minerals Ltd, Annual General Meeting, Nov 25, 2024. New Risk • Sep 02
New major risk - Revenue and earnings growth Revenue has declined by 100% over the past year. This is considered a major risk. Ultimately, shareholders want to see a good return on their investment and that generally comes from sharing in the company's profits. If revenues are declining, then it is difficult for the company to prevent its earnings from declining as well. A trend of falling revenue can be very difficult to turn around. If the company is well already established it may also be a sign the company has matured and is in decline. In addition, if the company pays dividends it will also likely need to reduce or cut them, striking a dual blow to total shareholder returns. Currently, the following risks have been identified for the company: Major Risks Revenue has declined by 100% over the past year. Revenue is less than US$1m. Market cap is less than US$10m (AU$13.7m market cap, or US$9.25m). Minor Risks Share price has been volatile over the past 3 months (16% average weekly change). Shareholders have been diluted in the past year (40% increase in shares outstanding). Annuncio • Aug 22
iTech Minerals Ltd has completed a Follow-on Equity Offering in the amount of AUD 0.5325 million. iTech Minerals Ltd has completed a Follow-on Equity Offering in the amount of AUD 0.5325 million.
Security Name: Ordinary Shares
Security Type: Common Stock
Securities Offered: 7,500,000
Price\Range: AUD 0.071
Discount Per Security: AUD 0.00426
Transaction Features: Subsequent Direct Listing New Risk • Jul 27
New minor risk - Shareholder dilution The company's shareholders have been diluted in the past year. Increase in shares outstanding: 21% This is considered a minor risk. Shareholder dilution occurs when there is an increase in the number of shares on issue that is not proportionally distributed between all shareholders. Often due to the company raising equity capital or some options being converted into stock. All else being equal, if there are more shares outstanding then each existing share will be entitled to a lower proportion of the company's total earnings, thus reducing earnings per share (EPS). While dilution might not always result in lower EPS (like if the company is using the capital to fund an EPS accretive acquisition) in a lot cases it does, along with lower dividends per share and less voting power at shareholder meetings. Currently, the following risks have been identified for the company: Major Risks Revenue has declined by 143% over the past year. Revenue is less than US$1m. Market cap is less than US$10m (AU$10.6m market cap, or US$6.97m). Minor Risks Share price has been volatile over the past 3 months (16% average weekly change). Shareholders have been diluted in the past year (21% increase in shares outstanding). Board Change • May 01
Insufficient new directors No new directors have joined the board in the last 3 years. The company's board is composed of: No new directors. 3 experienced directors. No highly experienced directors. Independent Non-Executive Director Gary Ferris was the last director to join the board, commencing their role in 2021. The company’s insufficient board refreshment is considered a risk according to the Simply Wall St Risk Model. New Risk • Mar 06
New major risk - Financial position The company has less than a year of cash runway based on its current free cash flow trend. Free cash flow: -AU$4.5m This is considered a major risk. With less than a year's worth of cash, the company will need to raise capital or take on debt unless its cash flows improve. This would dilute existing shareholders or increase balance sheet risk. Currently, the following risks have been identified for the company: Major Risks Less than 1 year of cash runway based on free cash flow trend (-AU$4.5m free cash flow). Revenue has declined by 143% over the past year. Revenue is less than US$1m. Market cap is less than US$10m (AU$10.3m market cap, or US$6.68m). New Risk • Feb 29
New minor risk - Financial position The company has less than a year of cash runway based on its current free cash flow. Free cash flow: -AU$4.5m This is considered a minor risk. With less than a year's worth of cash, the company will need to raise capital or take on debt unless its cash flows improve. This would dilute existing shareholders or increase balance sheet risk. Currently, the following risks have been identified for the company: Major Risks Revenue has declined by 51% over the past year. Revenue is less than US$1m (AU$34k revenue, or US$22k). Market cap is less than US$10m (AU$10.3m market cap, or US$6.67m). Minor Risk Less than 1 year of cash runway based on current free cash flow (-AU$4.5m). New Risk • Oct 23
New minor risk - Share price stability The company's share price has been volatile over the past 3 months. It is more volatile than 75% of Australian stocks, typically moving 15% a week. This is considered a minor risk. Share price volatility indicates the stock is highly sensitive to market conditions or economic conditions rather than being sensitive to its own business performance, which may also be inconsistent. It also increases the risk of potential losses in the short term as the stock tends to have larger drops in price more frequently than other stocks. Currently, the following risks have been identified for the company: Major Risks Revenue is less than US$1m (AU$39k revenue, or US$25k). Market cap is less than US$10m (AU$15.3m market cap, or US$9.63m). Minor Risks Share price has been volatile over the past 3 months (15% average weekly change). Shareholders have been diluted in the past year (27% increase in shares outstanding). Annuncio • Sep 28
iTech Minerals Ltd, Annual General Meeting, Nov 27, 2023 iTech Minerals Ltd, Annual General Meeting, Nov 27, 2023. Agenda: To consider re-election of Directors. Board Change • Jun 30
High number of new and inexperienced directors There are 3 new directors who have joined the board in the last 3 years. The company's board is composed of: 3 new directors. No experienced directors. No highly experienced directors. MD & Director Mike Schwarz is the most experienced director on the board, commencing their role in 2021. The company’s lack of experienced directors is considered a risk according to the Simply Wall St Risk Model. Annuncio • Feb 18
iTech Minerals Ltd Announces Drilling Commences on Eyre Peninsula Graphite Projects iTech Minerals Ltd. has modelled several of the most significant airborne electromagnetic anomalies that have a confirmed source of graphite mineralisation, to determine the best location to add additional graphite resources to iTech's current inventory. As a result of this process, two prospects stood out as having significant potential for both tonnage and grade. An Exploration Target at Sugarloaf of 158-264 Mt @ 7-12 % TGC was determined from drilling and a conductivity anomaly measuring 4.5 km by 1.3 km and was reported to the ASX on 19 September 2022. A drill target at Lacroma determined from drilling and a conductivity anomaly measuring 6 km by 3 km and was reported to the ASX on 4 October 2022. Limited drilling to date at the Lacroma target has prevented determination of an Exploration Target, however, planned drilling will provide the necessary information. iTech announced it has now commenced drilling at the Sugarloaf Graphite Prospect. Once completed, the drill rig will immediately move to Lacroma. iTech has plans to drill over 12,000m on the Eyre Peninsula graphite prospects. Each hole is expected to average 150m in depth. The Company has commenced this next phase of drill testing at Sugarloaf with exploration drilling of up to 2,000m to confirm the extent of graphite mineralisation and obtain further samples for metallurgical test work. Samples from Sugarloaf have undergone metallurgical test work. This test work is preliminary in nature and is not aimed at producing a battery grade spherical product. The purpose of this test work was to determine if the graphite at Sugarloaf had the right properties to be able to produce battery anode material (see ASX release on 16 December 2022, Sugarloaf Graphite Metallurgy update). This work was successful and has confirmed that Sugarloaf consists of a fine crystalline flake graphite. Further test work is now being planned to determine what kind of processing will be required to produce a fine flake concentrate with suitable grade and recoveries. The drill rig will then move to Lacroma and start at Lacroma West where graphite is known to outcrop above the conductivity anomaly. Several test holes will also be drilled into Lacroma East, which is expected to be deeper, to confirm the anomaly is caused by graphite and determine the depth to mineralisation. Most of the drilling will focus on Lacroma with 10,000m planned, where metallurgy has confirmed graphite mineralisation can produce a high-quality concentrate. The combined program is expected to take up to 10 weeks to complete with assay results released regularly as drilling progresses. Annuncio • Nov 30
iTech Minerals Ltd. Receives Drilling Approvals Received for Graphite Projects iTech Minerals Ltd. announced that all drilling approvals have now been received at both the Lacroma and Sugarloaf Graphite Prospects on the Eyre Peninsula. Drill Targets: The Company has modelled several of the most significant airborne electromagnetic anomalies that have a confirmed source of graphite mineralisation, to determine the best location to add additional graphite resources to iTech's current inventory. As a result of this process, two prospects stood out as having significant potential for both tonnage and grade. An Exploration Target at Sugarloaf of 158-264 Mt @ 7-12 % TGC was determined from drilling and a conductivity anomaly measuring 4.5 km by 1.3 km and was reported to the ASX on 19 September 2022. A drill target at Lacroma determined from drilling and a conductivity anomaly measuring 6 km by 3 km and was reported to the ASX on 4 October 2022. Limited drilling to date at the Lacroma target prevented determination of an Exploration Target, however, planned drilling will provide the necessary information. Drilling Program: iTech is planning to drill test both the Lacroma Graphite Prospect and Sugarloaf Graphite Prospect in coming months. All required approvals have been obtained to commence drilling once crops have been harvested and subject to no unseasonal weather events. The company had planned to commence drilling towards the end of December, as this is usually when the local harvest has been completed. However, due to this year's unseasonal weather events, it appears as though the harvest may continue into early January. The Company is monitoring the progress of the harvest and will commence drilling a soon as access is available. A suitable reverse circulation drill rig has been secured to complete the program. iTech has budgeted up to $4.5 million to drill over 12,000m on the Eyre Peninsula graphite prospects. Each hole is expected to average 150m in depth. The Company will commence this next phase of drill testing at Sugarloaf with exploration drilling of 2000m to confirm the extent of graphite mineralisation and obtain further samples for metallurgical test work. Sample from Sugarloaf is currently undergoing metallurgical test work and the number of holes may be expanded if positive test results are received. This test work is preliminary in nature and is not aimed at producing a battery grade spherical product. The purpose of this test work is to determine what kind of processing will be required to produce a fine flake concentrate with suitable grade and recoveries. It is expected that further test work will be required after these results have been received. The drill rig will then move to Lacroma and start at Lacroma West where graphite is known to outcrop above the conductivity anomaly. Several test holes will also be drilled into Lacroma East, which is expected to be deeper, to confirm the anomaly is caused by graphite and determine the depth to mineralisation. Most of the drilling will focus on Lacroma with 10,000m planned, where metallurgy has confirmed graphite mineralisation can produce a high-quality concentrate. Caralue Bluff Kaolin-REE Project: Both government and landowner approvals have also been received for the Caralue Bluff Kaolin- REE drilling program. Results of the latest round of metallurgical test work have been received. The test work was designed to see if an increase in acid concentrations or temperature would improve the extraction of REEs from the clay hosted mineralisation. The results showed little improvement on the currently established extraction levels. iTech is now undertaking a mineralogical analysis (QEMSCAN) of the samples to determine in what form the REE are hosted which will guide the next round of testing. The Company plans to commence the next round of drilling only if a suitable REE extraction method can be determined. Annuncio • Oct 28
iTech Minerals Ltd Announces 200km of Graphite Potential at iTech's Eyre Peninsula Graphite Projects In preparation for iTech Minerals' Ltd. upcoming graphite drill program, the Company has undertaken a high-level review of the graphite potential across its extensive graphite tenure on the Eyre Peninsula. iTech holds 100% interest in graphite rights to over 2,085 sq km of exploration licences and a current mining licence (ML 6470) over the Campoona Central Graphite Deposit. The Campoona Graphite Project surrounds the proposed centrally located Sugarloaf Graphite Processing Facility on the multipurpose licence (MPL150) and water infrastructure licence (MPL 151). As part of the review, iTech compiled and merged over 1,470 sq km of regional airborne electromagnetic surveys covering a significant portion of its graphite prospective licences. Airborne electromagnetics is a useful tool in identifying graphite potential as it measures the conductivity of rocks beneath the surface over a large area. Graphite is a very conductive mineral, and when it occurs in significant concentrations in the earth's crust, has the potential to be mapped as conductivity anomalies by airborne electromagnetics. Using this method, iTech has identified over 200 km of conductive geological horizons, within its licences, likely to be formed by graphite mineralisation. Sometimes geological features such as salty groundwater and sulphide accumulations can also cause conductivity anomalies. To ensure iTech is mapping anomalies caused by graphite, iTech only mapped anomalies confirmed as being caused by graphite either in drilling or in outcrop. To determine the best location to add additional graphite resources to iTech's current inventory, the Company has modelled several of the most significant airborne electromagnetic anomalies that have a confirmed source of graphite mineralisation. As a result of this process, two prospects stood out as having significant potential for both tonnage and grade. Both prospects have been previously announced by the Company. An Exploration Target at Sugarloaf of 158-264 Mt @ 7-12 % TGC was determined from drilling and a conductivity anomaly measuring 4.5 km by 1.3 km. A drill target at Lacroma determined from drilling and a conductivity anomaly measuring 6 km by 3 km and was reported to the ASX on 4 October 2022. Limited drilling to date at the Lacroma target prevented determination of an Exploration Target. The upcoming drilling program will provide the necessary information to assess the graphite potential at Lacroma. The Campoona Graphite Project contains a JORC 2012 graphite Mineral Resource of 8.55 Mt @ 9.0% Total Graphitic Carbon (TGC), a granted mining lease and approved multipurpose licences for processing infrastructure and groundwater extraction. iTech is currently investigating the best pathway to produce "green graphite", including the use of abundant renewable energy available in South Australia. iTech continues to build its portfolio of critical minerals projects with the production of both 99.99% fixed carbon (FC) spherical graphite and flake graphite, from Campoona graphite concentrates. Test work was undertaken on bulk sample (407 kg) of run-of-mine (ROM) graphite ore collected from reverse circulation and diamond drilling at the Campoona Central Deposit. The drill holes were located within areas representative of low strip ratio mineralisation of prime economic interest. A concentrate of ~94% TGC with recoveries of ~80% were achieved through conventional flotation processes. Over 96% of the sample was classified as fine flake and had less than 75-micron flake size. Spheronisation of graphite flakes typically uses the small to fine flakes which means >99% of the sample is suitable for PSG production. Purification of flake and spherical graphite samples using both caustic bake and autoclave assisted caustic leach methods consistently achieved 99.99% purity. Testing of the spherical product confirms it is within or exceeds all relevant industry standard parameters for lithium-ion battery anode material. High yields of spherical product, of 47%, show the potential for excellent conversion of flake into high value spherical graphite. Additionally, the ability to purify the flake concentrate to 99.99% FC prior to spheronisation, opens the possibility to produce a high value purified fine product rather than the normally low value waste generated during spheronisation. Purified fines left over from spheronisation can be used as conductivity-enhancement additives in the battery cathodes. Premium performance conductivity enhancement materials are typically worth more than spheroidal graphite produced from natural graphite. iTech is planning to drill test both the Lacroma Graphite Prospect and Sugarloaf Graphite Prospect in coming months. Landowner consent has been obtained to commence drilling in December once crops have been harvested and subject to no unseasonal weather events. Applications for approval to drill have been submitted to the government and are expected to be received within weeks. A suitable reverse circulation drill rig has been secured to complete the program. iTech will commence this next phase of drill testing at Sugarloaf: To supply representative material for additional metallurgical test work and As graphite mineralisation has already been confirmed by historical drilling and appears to be over a relatively over a large area according to the conductivity cross sections. The drill rig will then move to Lacroma and start at Lacroma West where graphite is known to outcrop above the conductivity anomaly. Several test holes will also be drilled into Lacroma East, which is expected to be deeper, to confirm the anomaly is caused by graphite and determine the depth to mineralisation. The combined program is expected to take up to 6-10 weeks to complete with assay results to follow. Annuncio • Oct 19
Itech Minerals Ltd Announces Kaolin Results Upgrade REE Content by 176% At Caralue Bluff iTech Minerals Ltd. announced kaolin results upgrade REE content by 176% at caralue bluff. Summary: Rare earth element content of high purity kaolin upgraded by 176% during beneficiation; Laboratory results on the -45-micron fraction confirm widespread, thick intervals of high purity white kaolin mineralisation with very low contained deleterious elements; Significant results from -45-micron fractions include: CBAC22-200 - 5m at 37.6% Al2O3, 0.6% Fe2O3, 0.28% TiO2, 0.07% CaO and 1902 ppm TREO from 11m (62% yield); CBAC22-203 - 5m at 36.9% Al2O3, 0.5% Fe2O3, 1.08% TiO2, 0.02% CaO and 1241 ppm TREO from 5m (58% yield); CBAC22-144 - 8m at 36.8% Al2O3, 0.22% Fe2O3, 0.78% TiO2, 0.02% CaO and 1687 ppm TREO from 10m (70% yield); CBAC22-138 - 14m at 36.4% Al2O3, 0.88% Fe2O3, 0.70% TiO2, 0.07% CaO and 839 ppm TREO from 10m (67% yield); CBAC22-162 - 6m at 35.9% Al2O3, 0.61% Fe2O3, 1.19% TiO2, 0.04% CaO and 1679 ppm TREO from 14m (72% yield); Results suggest potential to leach upgraded REEs from high purity kaolin fraction as part of the kaolin processing flow sheet; Low CaO suggests low acid consumption in REE leaching stage; Mineralisation is rich in key magnet REEs (Nd-Pr-Dy-Tb) averaging 25% of the REE basket. Annuncio • Oct 07
iTech Minerals Ltd. Receives the Results from the First Stage of Diagnostic Metallurgical Test Work at the Caralue Bluff Project on the Eyre Peninsula in South Australia iTech Minerals Ltd. has received the results from the first stage of diagnostic metallurgical test work at the Caralue Bluff Project on the Eyre Peninsula in South Australia. The aim of the test work was to determine if standardised leach conditions for ionic clay hosted rare earths would readily liberate the rare earth element hosted in the high purity kaolin clays at Caralue Bluff. Tests were undertaken at pH 4 with 0.5M ammonium sulphate and sulphuric acid to assess the ionic component and at pH 1 with just sulphuric acid to assess the colloidal component. All tests were undertaken at atmospheric pressure and temperature. Maximum recoveries of the four magnet REEs (Nd, Pr, Dy and Tb) range between 28-65% which suggest the potential to increase extractions with variations to the leaching conditions. In consultation with experts at ANSTO, iTech has now commenced stage two leaching trials with the aim of increasing recoveries by testing the effects of increasing acid concentration and/or increasing leaching temperature. Another option the company will be investigating is to leach the beneficiated kaolin fraction (-45 micron) which has shown significantly increased REE grades. Initial Metallurgical Evaluation: In May 2022, iTech Minerals Ltd. commenced high-level test work on selected intervals of samples recently drilled at the Caralue Bluff Prospect on Eyre Peninsula. Samples were from 19 of the 260 holes (7%) drilled earlier this year, of these only 8 occur within the currently defined exploration target. Samples were sent to both ANSTO (the Australian Nuclear and Science Technology Organisation) in Sydney and the ALS Metallurgy laboratory in Perth. Results have been reviewed by Damian Connelly at METS Engineering. Acid leach test work (pH 1) was undertaken at both ANSTO in Sydney and ALS Metallurgy Laboratories in Perth (35 samples). The aim of this test work was to determine both the ionic and colloidal (rare earth element oxide) component under standard conditions. pH 1 using H2SO4; 2 hours; Ambient temperature of 250C; and 2 wt% solids density. Ionic leach test work, on 35 samples, was also undertaken at ALS Laboratories in Perth. Given that the aim of the test work was diagnostic, a very simple leach process was employed to test the easily leachable ionic fraction under standard conditions. 0.5M (NH4)2SO4 as lixiviant; pH 4 using H2SO4; 30 minutes; Ambient temperature of 250C; and 2 wt% solids density. This process was designed to only target the easily leachable ionic component of REE mineralisation over a short exposure period. No additional leach steps, analysis of wash water or variation of pH, were undertaken which have the potential to increase levels of extraction. Each of the leach tests was conducted on 40g of dry, pulverised sample and 1960g of the lixiviant in a 2 L titanium /stainless steel baffled leach vessel equipped with an overhead stirrer. The results of the tests on selected clay samples were used to calculate average extractions for each composite sample. The testing demonstrated that while average recoveries of the four main magnet REEs were relatively low, the maximum recoveries show the potential for improved extraction with variations to the leaching conditions. Discussion and Next Steps: In consultation with experts at ANSTO, iTech has now commenced stage two leaching trials with the aim of increasing recoveries by testing the effects of increasing acid concentration and/or increasing leaching temperature. Results are expected in the next 4-6 weeks. As has been seen with other clay hosted REE project worldwide, several iterations of metallurgical test work are required to determine the optimum leaching conditions for a particular deposit. The standardised tests used by iTech initially are intended to act as a guide to determine effective leaching conditions in the next round of test work. The Caralue Bluff Project also contains a significant high purity kaolin exploration target; the company will be investigating the potential to leach the beneficiated kaolin fraction which has shown significantly increased REE. Having a high purity kaolin as the host to REE mineralisation at Caralue Bluff allows iTech to explore a range of metallurgical techniques to recover the REE's into solution while keeping impurities at low levels. Annuncio • Sep 29
iTech Minerals Ltd, Annual General Meeting, Nov 28, 2022 iTech Minerals Ltd, Annual General Meeting, Nov 28, 2022. Agenda: To consider the re-election of Directors. Annuncio • Sep 20
iTech Minerals Ltd Provides Sugarloaf Graphite Exploration Target, Eyre Peninsula iTech Minerals Ltd. released an Exploration Target of 158 - 264 Mt @ 7 - 12 % TGC for the Sugarloaf Graphite Prospect, near Cleve on the Central Eyre Peninsula. The target has been compiled from over 33 historic drill holes and a detailed airborne electromagnetic survey that has been used to predict the continuity of graphite mineralisation. Sugarloaf Graphite Prospect: The Sugarloaf Graphite Prospect is located approximately 30 km north-west of Cleve on the central Eyre Peninsula and is directly adjacent to iTech's proposed graphite processing plant for the Campoona Spherical Graphite Project. The graphite at this location occurs within the Paleoproterozoic Hutchison Group Metasediments and is likely to have formed from organic rich stratigraphic horizons metamorphosed during regional upper greenschist to lower amphibolite facies metamorphism during the Kimban Orogeny. The graphite rich horizon forms a largely flat lying, shallow anticlinal structure as interpreted from drilling and detailed airborne and ground-based electromagnetics. When combined, all drilling results confirm that the graphitic-rich body consists of two broadly flat lying zones of graphitic schist that, in aggregate, average 50m in true width, varying in depth from 0m (surface) to 50m below surface. Drilling results extend over a strike length of 4 km. The host rock is a muscovite bearing quartz-rich metasiltstone. Two airborne electromagnetic surveys have been flown over the Sugarloaf Exploration Target resulting in 10 east-west conductivity depth image sections that were used to predict the subsurface extent of graphite mineralisation. Confirmation of the conductivity anomaly being caused by graphite mineralisation is confirmed by drilling. A three-dimensional model was generated from the cross sections to define the dimensions of the Exploration Target . No density measurements have been conducted at this time but given the dominant quartz and muscovite composition it is reasonable to ascribe a very conservative density of 1.5 sg units. The depth of oxidation in the area is approximately 80m vertically below surface corresponding with the current water table. Grade The Sugarloaf Exploration Target area has up to two vertically stacked graphite domains identified from down-hole drill intersections with a combined average thickness of 50 m determined from 13 drill holes over 2.5 km. The weighted arithmetic average of all drill intervals of graphitic schist (sample size n=694) is 9.4% Total Carbon. Intervals chosen for the analysis had to have visible graphite however no lower grade cut-off was used. In view of no lower cut-off grade being applied it is therefore reasonable to assume that the likely grade will be between 7%-12% Total Graphitic Carbon. A total of 33 holes were compiled from historical exploration reports and the exploration database inherited from Archer Materials (ASX: AXE or Archer) during the acquisition of the tenements. These holes were selected as they were the only ones from the broader sample set that had total graphite carbon analyses (TGC). Assumptions: The following methodology was used in the calculation of the Exploration Target at Sugarloaf. Using Datamine Discover 3D software, an `outline' of a shallow, flat lying, conductivity anomaly was created from 10 east-west cross sections spaced at 300m in the north and 400m in the south. The source of the conductivity anomaly was confirmed from drilling results to be graphite mineralisation. A 3D model was generated from the cross sections and an upper plan surface area of 3,527,000 m2 was generated from the model. The surface area multiplied by a range of thicknesses (30m to 50m) were used to develop the tonnage range for the Exploration Target. Rock density of 1.5 sg units for quartz-muscovite-graphite schist has been assumed. The density (sg) is theoretical and considered to be very conservative. No work has been completed to determine the accuracy of the density assumption. In determining the average grade, internal waste intervals of up to 3m were used. Next Steps: iTech Minerals has engaged ANZAPLAN, a specialist graphite materials consultancy in Germany, to undertake a metallurgical test work program, on Sugarloaf graphite. The aim of the program is to determine if Sugarloaf graphite can be processed into a concentrate suitable for battery anode material. A sample is currently enroute to Germany with results expected in 3-4 months. iTech is currently finalising government and landowner drilling approvals across the Sugarloaf Graphite Exploration Target with a view to commence drilling in the last quarter of this calendar year. Annuncio • Sep 14
iTech Minerals Ltd Receives Results of Metallurgical Program iTech Minerals Ltd. has received the results of its metallurgical program, undertaken by ANZAPLAN in Germany, to produce high value battery anode material from a bulk sample of run-of-mine material from the Campoona Graphite Deposit. iTech continues to build its portfolio of critical minerals projects with the production of both 99.99% fixed carbon spherical graphite and flake graphite, from Campoona graphite concentrates. Testing of the spherical product confirms it is within or exceeds all relevant industry standard parameters for lithium-ion battery anode material. High yields of spherical product, of 47%, show the potential for excellent conversion of flake into high value spherical graphite. Additionally, the ability to purify the flake concentrate to 99.99% FC prior to spheronisation, opens the possibility to produce a high value purified fine product rather than the normally low value waste generated during spheronisation. Purified fines left over from spheronisation can be used as conductivity-enhancement additives in the battery cathodes. Premium performance conductivity enhancement materials are typically worth more than spheroidal graphite produced from natural graphite. The Campoona Graphite Project contains a JORC 2012 graphite Mineral Resource of 8.55 Mt @ 9.0% Total Graphitic Carbon, a granted mining lease and approved multipurpose licences for processing infrastructure and groundwater extraction. iTech is currently investigating the best pathway to produce "green graphite", including the use of abundant renewable energy available in South Australia. Metallurgical Results Test work was undertaken on bulk sample of run-of-mine graphite ore collected from reverse circulation and diamond drilling at the Campoona Central Deposit. The drill holes were located within areas representative of low strip ratio mineralisation of prime economic interest. A concentrate of 94% TGC with recoveries of 80% were achieved through conventional flotation processes. Spheronisation of graphite flakes typically uses the small to fine flakes which means >99% of the sample is suitable for PSG production. The process of converting large flakes into smaller particles of a suitable size for anode production is expensive because any additional grinding is energy intensive, adding additional cost to processing. With the Campoona concentrate, the process begins with smaller flake sizes, and the purity can be improved, to 99.99% FC, through low-cost purification, finer flake material becomes particularly attractive for producing battery-grade graphite, and more cost effective than starting with large-flake material. Additionally, the resultant fines, which would normally be a low value by-product, have the potential to become a high value conductivity enhancement material in battery cathodes. Purification and Spheronisation. The latest results from the metallurgical test work program include results from the purification of both flake and spheronised graphite and on industry standard parameters for the purified spheronised graphite. As indicated in Table 2 the spherical graphite test program demonstrate that Campoona concentrates are suitable to produce purified uncoated spherical graphite, with all parameters tested within industry standard classification tests. The Campoona Graphite Project contains a JORC 2012 graphite Mineral Resource of 8.55 Mt @ 9.0%. iTech could significantly expand its global graphite resources at both Sugarloaf Graphite Prospect which occurs on EL5791 and EL5920 and the Lacroma Graphite Prospect which occurs approximately 30 km to the north of Campoona on EL6643. iTech Minerals owns 100% of the graphite rights on EL6643 and EL5920 and right to all minerals on EL5791. The Sugarloaf Prospect was originally explored by Archer Materials between 2011 and 2016 and consists of a large occurrence of microcrystalline graphite. Due to the former prevailing view that graphite deposits needed to have a large flake size to be economic, Archer decided to focus on other prospects. With a change in demand to fine flake sizes for spherical graphite production, iTech believes that Sugarloaf has the potential to significantly expand the Company's resources of fine flake graphite if metallurgical test work confirms that it can be readily concentrated to battery grade levels. The Lacroma Prospect corresponds to a prominent Electro-Magnetic signature that has a potential strike extent of over 12 kilometres. Initial drilling at Lacroma recorded very wide intercepts of graphite. Lacroma graphite, like the graphite at Campoona Shaft and Central Campoona, is high crystalline fine flake graphite. Metallurgical test work undertaken by Archer Materials in 2015 showed that a 98.6% TGC concentrate using the same conventional flotation and leaching conditions as for the Campoona Deposits. This suggests that the same processing circuit planned by iTech could also use graphite ore from Lacroma. iTech is currently planning a substantial drilling program to test both the Sugarloaf Graphite Prospect and the Lacroma EM anomaly. Further drilling at both prospects has the potential to support a substantial Mineral Resource upgrade. Annuncio • Aug 18
iTech Minerals Ltd Releases an Exploration Target of 110-220 Mt @ 635-832 Ppm Treo and 19-22% Al2o3 for the Caralue Bluff Ree-Kaolin Project iTech Minerals Ltd. released an Exploration Target of 110-220 Mt @ 635-832 ppm TREO and 19-22% Al2O3 for the Caralue Bluff REE-Kaolin Project. The Exploration target is based on 80 drill holes, from a total program of 260, across an area of approximately 12 km x 12 km. Importantly it remains open in multiple directions allowing for possible expansion in upcoming drill programs. The company now eagerly awaits the results of its metallurgical test work program to determine whether the REEs are in an ionic and/or colloidal form and have the potential to be economically extracted. If metallurgical results are positive, a major drilling program is planned, post-harvest (December-January), to convert the Exploration Target to JORC resources. The Caralue Prospect was initially established as a high purity kaolin prospect with the identification of thick intervals of bright white kaolin, close to surface, in several historical drill holes. Having identified significant REEs in the kaolin rich intervals at Ethiopia, Burtons and Bartels Prospects, iTech geologists suspected that Caralue Bluff might also be prospective for regolith hosted REE mineralisation. A total area of 12 km x 12 km was tested by drilling of 260 holes, the results of which have determined the continuity of mineralisation within this extensive area. The Caralue Bluff Exploration Target area has three separate kaolin domains identified where down- hole sample interval composite head grades of TREOs exceeded 400ppm. The drill hole samples within each of the individual domains were separated into the individual domains and weighted averages of the head grades and screened grades for the composite intervals were used to provide the following information for the cumulative exploration target. A total of 79 holes drilled in early 2022 were used in the exploration target, the exploration results for these holes have been progressively released to the market over the year. Annuncio • Aug 13
iTech Minerals Ltd Announces Final Drill Results from Caralue Bluff Prospect iTech Minerals Ltd. completed a 478-hole drill program, in April 2022, across four prospects on the Eyre Peninsula in South Australia. The aim of the program was to test the potential for regolith hosted ion adsorption clay (IAC) REEs and high purity kaolin mineralisation. The fifth batch of drill results, from Caralue Bluff, continue to show that significant intersections of REEs occur within the kaolin (clay) rich weathered horizon over larger areas (Figures1 & 2). Metallurgical work, at a commercial laboratory, on 60 mineralised samples from Caralue Bluff are currently undergoing leaching test work with results due in the coming weeks. Delays in commercial geochemical analysis have delayed the metallurgical results beyond what was expected but is now progressing rapidly. An additional 60 samples have recently been sent to ANSTO from across projects at Caralue Bluff, Ethiopia, Burtons and Franklyn.Caralue Bluff Prospect: The Caralue Bluff Prospect was initially established as a high purity kaolin prospect with the identification of thick intervals of bright white kaolin, close to surface, in several historical drill holes. Having identified significant REEs in the kaolin rich intervals at Ethiopia, Burtons and Bartels Prospects, iTech geologists suspected that Caralue Bluff might also be prospective for regolith hosted REE mineralisation. The latest results extend and infill the areas of thick, high-grade REEs, particularly in the south-east of the prospect area. A total area of 12 km x 12 km was tested by drilling of 260 holes, the results of which will determine the continuity of mineralisation within this already extensive area. Caralue Bluff Significant Intersections: The final 109 drill holes are reported, of which 52 contained significant intervals of REEs above 350 ppm TREO. A further 33 holes were either not able to penetrate a hard silcrete/ferricrete surface layer or did not contain enough significant kaolin to warrant analysis. The remaining 24 drill holes did not have significant intervals of REEs above the cut-off grade of 350ppm. Next Steps: Results from 60 samples from Caralue Bluff are currently undergoing metallurgical test work. Progress has been delayed due to hold-ups at the commercial geochemical laboratories, however, rapid progress is now being made on results. Samples are being tested for their easily leachable REE component with a straight acid leach at pH 1-2 and then for the ionic component with a leaching solution at pH 4 and 0.5M ammonium sulphate.An additional 60 samples have recently been sent to ANSTO from across projects at Caralue Bluff, Ethiopia, Burtons and Franklyn. For all potential IAC REE projects, samples are being selected to be representative of the entirerange of geological environments within the prospect, not only laterally (east-west and north-south), but also at various levels within the weathering profile (vertically). Annuncio • Jul 30
Itech Minerals Ltd Announces Franklyn Kaolin-Halloysite Prospect Reveals Ree Potential iTech Minerals Ltd. announced that as drill results continue to be received from the Eyre Peninsula Kaolin-REE Project, and as part of an ongoing program of assessing its extensive suite of exploration tenure across South Australia, iTech has identified significant REE potential within its Franklyn Kaolin-Halloysite Prospect in the Nackara Arc. The Company has applied its exploration model of "clay hosted REEs within high purity kaolin mineralisation", such as the very large Caralue Bluff Prospect on the Eyre Peninsula, to Franklyn. iTech resubmitted samples from a 2019 drilling program for REE analysis and reported widespread REE mineralisation. The samples analysed were from kaolin-halloysite rich intervals identified from previous drilling. Significant intersections include: FRAC19-005 - 19m @ 631 ppm TREO from 9m; Including 4m @ 1031 ppm TREO from 13m; FRAC19-010 - 12m @ 960 ppm TREO from 3m; Including 4m @ 1505 ppm TREO from 7m; FRAC19-011 - 7m @ 995 ppm TREO from 6m; Including 3m @ 1287 ppm TREO from 10m. Clay hosted REE mineralisation occurs within an establish kaolin-halloysite exploration target of 45Mt - 91Mt at a grade of 30 - 36% Al2O3 (-45 µm size fraction) as reported in the company's prospectus in October 2021. While Eyre Peninsula, and the Caralue Bluff Prospect, continue to be the focus of exploration for clay hosted REE deposits, the discovery of REE mineralisation at Franklyn expands iTech's pipeline of projects to include a prospect with known halloysite occurrences. Potential for Regolith Hosted REE Mineralisation iTech is exploring for regolith hosted REE mineralisation with a focus on locations that have coincident potential for high purity kaolin. The Franklyn Kaolin-Halloysite Prospect fits this exploration model as the kaolin is developed from weathering of the Delamerian Bendigo Granite which is enriched in REEs. In June 2022, the Company submitted the kaolin rich intervals of selected drill holes from Archer's 2019 drilling program for REE analysis. The results show that most of drill holes have significantly elevated REE's over relatively thick intervals from as shallow as 3 m below surface. Significant intervals include: FRAC19-005 - 19m @ 631 ppm TREO from 9m; Including 4m @ 1031 ppm TREO from 13m FRAC19-010 - 12m @ 960 ppm TREO from 3m; Including 4m @ 1505 ppm TREO from 7m; FRAC19-011 - 7m @ 995 ppm TREO from 6m; Including 3m @ 1287 ppm TREO from 10m. Of the 16 drill holes submitted for REEs, 11 returned significant intervals above 350 ppm TREO. Annuncio • Jul 22
iTech Minerals Ltd. Announces More Thick and High-Grade REE Results at Caralue Bluff iTech Minerals Ltd. announced that it has completed a 478-hole drill program, in April 2022, across four prospects on the Eyre Peninsula in South Australia. The aim of the program was to test the potential for regolith hosted ion adsorption clay (IAC) REEs and high purity kaolin mineralisation. The fourth batch of drill results, from Caralue Bluff, show that significant intersections of REEs occur within the kaolin (clay) rich weathered horizon over larger areas. Metallurgical work on 60 mineralised samples from Caralue Bluff are currently undergoing leaching test work with results due within the next 4 weeks. Further samples are being prepared for leaching test work as drill results become available. Caralue Bluff Prospect: The Caralue Prospect was initially established as a high purity kaolin prospect with the identification of thick intervals of bright white kaolin, close to surface, in several historical drill holes. Having identified significant REEs in the kaolin rich intervals at Ethiopia, Burtons and Bartels Prospects, iTech geologists suspected that Caralue Bluff might also be prospective for regolith hosted REE mineralisation. The latest results extend and infill the areas of thick, high-grade REEs, particularly in the south-east of the prospect area. A total area of 12 km x 12 km was tested by drilling of 260 holes, the results of which will determine the continuity of mineralisation within this already extensive area. Annuncio • Jul 18
iTech Minerals Announces New REE Drill Results Expand Caralue Bluff Prospect iTech Minerals Ltd. completed a 478-hole drill program, in April 2022, across four prospects on the Eyre Peninsula in South Australia. The aim of the program was to test the potential for regolith hosted ion adsorption clay (IAC) REEs and high purity kaolin mineralisation. The third batch of drill results, from Caralue Bluff, show that significant intersections of REEs occur within the kaolin (clay) rich weathered horizon over larger areas. Metallurgical work on 60 mineralised samples from Caralue Bluff are currently undergoing leaching test work with results due within the next 4 weeks. Further samples are being prepared for leaching test work as drill results become available. Caralue Bluff Prospect The Caralue Prospect was initially established as a high purity kaolin prospect with the identification of thick intervals of bright white kaolin, close to surface, in several historical drill holes. Having identified significant REEs in the kaolin rich intervals at Ethiopia, Burtons and Bartels Prospects, iTech geologists suspected that Caralue Bluff might also be prospective for regolith hosted REE mineralisation. Initial drill results revealed thick intervals of elevated REE mineralisation over 8 km. The latest results extend this to an area of approximately 10 km x 9 km. A total area of 12 km x 12 km was tested by drilling of 260 holes, the results of which will determine the continuity of mineralisation within this already extensive area. Annuncio • Jul 05
iTech Minerals Ltd Advances Campoona Spherical Graphite Project iTech Minerals Ltd. has advanced the Campoona Spherical Graphite Project with the production of a 42kg bulk sample of >94% TGC concentrate and recoveries of ~80% using an industry standard flotation circuit. iTech continues to build its portfolio of critical minerals projects with the production of a 42kg high- quality graphite concentrate from a bulk sample (407kg) of run-of-mine (ROM) graphite ore, processed by ANZAPLAN in Germany. ANZAPLAN has completed the third stage of metallurgical test work to produce purified spherical graphite for use in the anodes of Lithium-Ion (Li-ion) batteries using a low- cost, eco-friendly processing route with a smaller environmental footprint. This collaboration is building on test work completed by Archer Materials between 2015-2019, where Archer successfully produced battery-grade graphite using a traditional hydrofluoric-acid (HF) process. The Campoona Graphite Project contains a JORC 2012 graphite Mineral Resource of 8.55 Mt @ 9.0% Total Graphitic Carbon (TGC), a granted mining lease and approved multipurpose licences for processing infrastructure and groundwater extraction. iTech is currently investigating the best pathway to produce green graphite, including the use of abundant renewable energy available in South Australia. Metallurgical Results: The third stage of metallurgical test work, to produce a bulk sample of graphite concentrate, has been successful with the production of 42kg of high-quality >94% flake graphite concentrate, from Campoona, with an estimated recovery of ~80%. Compared to the process developed with smaller lab equipment, the process followed for bulk material production uses less processing steps at a similar final grade. This means that the upgrading factors of the individual stages were higher due to improved selectivity when using the larger flotation cell. In the bulk sample production, three regrinding stages with a total of five flotation stages (rougher/scavenger and four cleaner stages, total of 8) were sufficient to produce a product within the given specifications. In comparison, four regrinds combined with a total of seven flotation stages were needed to produce a flotation concentrate with the desired quality, using lab equipment (total of 11). Test work was undertaken on bulk sample (407kg) of run-of-mine (ROM) graphite ore collected from reverse circulation and diamond drilling at the Campoona Central Deposit. The drill holes were located within areas representative of low strip ratio mineralisation of prime economic interest. Table 1 shows the flake size distribution that was achieved while focussing on a concentrate suitable to produce purified spherical graphite (PSG). Spheroidization of graphite flakes typically uses the small to fine flakes which means >99% of the sample is suitable for PSG production, enhancing the potential for low-cost processing costs. Concentrates with distributions through the larger flake sizes require additional processing steps, adding to total cost of production. iTech believes that Campoona has the potential to produce a high-quality and cost-competitive flake graphite concentrate suitable to produce PSG for use in the lithium-ion battery sector. The Company is confident that on-going optimisation test-work will continue to improve concentrate grade and recoveries. Next Steps: The first three stages of a 7-stage test work program are now complete. Review of historical test work data - completed; Development of a beneficiation process (flake graphite) - completed; Flake graphite sample production (50kg) - completed; Screening of alternative (non-HF) chemical purification routes - underway; Optimisation of chemical purification; Spherical graphite sample production (2kg); Confirmation of purification of spherical graphite; Screening of alternative (non-HF) is now underway. Once complete, the optimisation and spherical; graphite sample production stages will commence. Results are expected in late August 2022. Annuncio • Jun 20
iTech Minerals Ltd. Provides Update on Caralue Bluff and Ethiopia Ree Prospects iTech Minerals Ltd. announced it recently completed a 478-hole drill program across four prospects on the Eyre Peninsula in South Australia. The aim of the program was to test the potential for regolith hosted ion adsorption clay (IAC) REEs and high purity kaolin mineralization. Recently received drill results show that significant intersections of REEs occur within the kaolin (clay) rich weathered horizon over larger areas at both Caralue Bluff and Ethiopia. Metallurgical work on mineralized samples confirms that an ionic component is present at Ethiopia, however, further test work will be required to test the extent to which the REEs are easily leachable. Samples from Caralue Bluff are currently undergoing leaching test work with results due in approximately 4 weeks. Further samples are being prepared for leaching test work at Ethiopia as drill results become available. Caralue Bluff Prospect: The Caralue Prospect was initially established as a high purity kaolin prospect with the identification of thick intervals of bright white kaolin, close to surface, in several historical drill holes. Having identified significant REEs in the kaolin rich intervals at Ethiopia, Burtons and Bartels Prospects, iTech geologists suspected that Caralue Bluff might also be prospective for regolith hosted REE mineralization. Initial drill results revealed thick intervals of elevated REE mineralization over 8 km. The latest results extend this to an area of approximately 10 km x 6 km. A total area of 12 km x 12 km was tested by drilling of 260 holes, the results of which will determine the continuity of mineralization within this already extensive area. Caralue Bluff Significant Intersections: A further 43 drill holes are reported, of which 18 were drilled into shallow unweathered granite, in the northern part of the prospect, and therefore did not test geology suitable for regolith hosted REE mineralization. A further 4 holes were not able to penetrate the hard silcrete surface layer and therefore did not test the underlying target horizon. 16 drill holes had significant intervals of REEs above the cut- off grade of 350 ppm, with only 4 drill holes intersecting the weathered horizon but not having elevated REEs. Of the 260 holes drilled at Caralue Bluff, 62 have now been reported with results from a further 198 expected before the end of July. Ethiopia Prospect: The Ethiopia Prospect was initially established as a high purity kaolin prospect with the identification of thick intervals of bright white kaolin, close to surface, in several historical drill holes. iTech recently released the first batch of results from 23 drill holes. The results revealed thick intervals of elevated REE mineralization in the fine (-45µm), kaolin rich fraction. In the last 3 months, 115 drill holes were completed across an area of 5 km by 3 km at the Ethiopia Prospect. Thick intervals of kaolin were visually identified over large areas in the drilling program, and selected number of holes were submitted for kaolin test work and REE analysis to test the high purity kaolin and IAC REE potential of the prospect. The Company is very pleased to receive positive results for REEs from a further 19 drill holes and will now eagerly await the results from the remaining drill holes across the prospect. Ethiopia Significant intersections: Of the 19 drill holes reported in this release, 13 had significant kaolin intersections and were submitted for kaolin test work. The test work involves separating the kaolin rich portion of the sample and testing its technical characteristics for a variety of industrial uses. As iTech sees value in the potential extraction the REEs from this portion, the samples were submitted for REE analysis. The remaining 6 holes did not have sufficient kaolin to warrant kaolin test work but have been submitted for REE analysis and will be reported separately. Of the 13 drill holes submitted for kaolin test work, 11 holes have significant levels of REEs (>350 ppm). To clarify, these results pertain to the fine fraction of the whole drill hole sample which has been sieved to -45 µm and is not representative of the complete sample, it is sourced from the beneficiated portion. The current results suggest that mineralization extends over a distance of at least 1.7 km by 1.3 km, however results from pending drill holes have the potential to significantly expand this area. Of the 115 holes drilled at Ethiopia, 42 have now been reported with results from a further 73 holes due by the end of July. Next Steps: 60 samples from Caralue Bluff are currently undergoing metallurgical test work. Samples are being tested for their easily leachable REE component with a straight acid leach at pH 1-2 and then for the ionic component with a leaching solution at pH 4 and 0.5M ammonium sulphate. As the drill results from Ethiopia become available, iTech is selecting representative samples to send for metallurgical test work. For all potential IAC REE projects, samples are being selected to be representative of the entire range of geological environments within the prospect, not only laterally (east-west and north-south), but also at various levels within the weathering profile (vertically). Annuncio • May 18
iTech Minerals Ltd Announces Substantial REE's in First Drill Holes at Ethiopia on the EP iTech Minerals Ltd. recently completed a 115-hole drill program at the Ethiopia Prospect on the Eyre Peninsula in South Australia. The aim of the program was to test the potential for ion adsorption clay (IAC) REEs within high purity kaolin mineralisation. Recently received drill results show that significant intersections of REEs occur within the kaolin rich weathered horizon. Ethiopia can now be confirmed to have the potential to form IAC REE style mineralisation. Metallurgical work on mineralised samples confirms that an ionic component is present at Ethiopia, however, further test work will be required to test the extent to which the REEs are easily leachable. Results from the first 23 of 115 drill holes at the Ethiopia IAC REE - Kaolin Prospect confirms substantial intervals of REE mineralisation in the clay rich, weathering profile. Intersections include: ETAC22-002 12m @ 1,057 ppm TREO from 7m (-45µm) - ETAC22-003 26m @ 972 ppm TREO from 0m (-45µm) - ETAC22-021 19m @ 988 ppm TREO from 2 m (-45µm) - ETAC22-022 10m @ 1142 ppm TREO from 2m (-45µm). 16 of the 23 drill holes had significant intervals of kaolin and were screened to concentrate the kaolin fraction. 15 of the 16 of these drill holes had significant REE mineralisation in the kaolin (clay) fraction and confirm results from sampling of historical holes. Samples from the remaining 92 holes, which cover an area of 5 km x 3 km, are currently being analysed and results will be reported as they become available. Ethiopia Prospect: The Ethiopia Prospect was initially established as a high purity kaolin prospect with the identification of thick intervals of bright white kaolin, close to surface, in several historical drill holes. iTech geologists observed that the weathering profile contained significant levels of the REE indicator element, Cerium, and submitted historical samples for analysis for the full suite of REEs. The results revealed thick intervals of elevated REE mineralisation in the fine (-45µm), kaolin rich fraction. In the last 3 months, 115 drill holes were completed across an area of 5 km by 3 km at the Ethiopia Prospect. Thick intervals of kaolin were visually identified over large areas in the drilling program, and selected number of holes were submitted for kaolin test work and REE analysis to test the high purity kaolin and IAC REE potential of the prospect. The Company is very pleased to receive positive results for REEs for the first 23 drill holes and will now eagerly await the results from the remaining drill holes across the prospect. The current results suggest that mineralisation extends over a distance of at least 1.3 km by 1.2 km, however results from pending drill holes have the potential to significantly expand this area. Significant intersections: Of the first 23 drill holes reported, 16 had significant kaolin intersections and were submitted for kaolin test work. The test work involves separating the kaolin rich portion of the sample and testing its technical characteristics for a variety of industrial uses. As iTech sees value in the potentialextraction the REEs from this portion, the samples were submitted for REE analysis and reported as part of this ASX release. The remaining 7 holes did not have sufficient kaolin to warrant kaolin test work but have been submitted for REE analysis and will be reported separately. Of the 16 drill holes submitted for kaolin test work, 15 holes have significant levels of REEs (>350 ppm). To clarify, these results pertain to the fine fraction of the whole drill hole sample which has been sieved to -45 µm and is not representative of the complete sample, it is the beneficiated portion. Next Steps: As the drill results become available, iTech is selecting representative samples to send formetallurgical test work. Samples are being selected to be representative of the entire range of geological environments within the prospect, not only laterally (east-west and north-south), but also at various levels within the weathering profile (vertically). Samples will be tested for their easily leachable REE component with a straight acid leach at pH 1-2 and then for the ionic component with a leaching solution at pH 4 and 0.5M ammonium sulphate. Having received positive partial drilling results from Ethiopia, iTech is eagerly waiting on results from drill holes sampled for kaolin test work from the remaining 92 drill holes as well the bulk of drill holes at Caralue Bluff (further 240 drill holes). Drill results which have been submitted for both kaolin and REE analysis have a longer lead time due to the need to separate the clay fraction prior to analysis. Annuncio • Apr 22
iTech Minerals Ltd Announces Campoona Spherical Graphite Project Achieves >94% Graphite Concentrate for PSG Feedstock iTech Minerals Ltd. has achieved a significant milestone at the Campoona Spherical Graphite Project with the production of a >94% TGC concentrate and recoveries of ~84% using an industry standard flotation circuit. iTech continues to build its portfolio of critical minerals projects with the production of a high-quality graphite concentrate from a bulk sample (600 kg) of run-of-mine (ROM) graphite ore, delivered to ANZAPLAN in Germany. ANZAPLAN has completed the first stage of metallurgical test work to produce purified spherical graphite for use in the anodes of Lithium-Ion (Li-ion) batteries using a low-cost, eco-friendly processing route with a smaller environmental footprint. This collaboration is building on test work completed by Archer Materials between 2015-2019, where Archer successfully produced battery-grade graphite using a traditional hydrofluoric-acid process. The Campoona Graphite Project contains a JORC 2012 graphite Mineral Resource of 8.55 Mt @ 9.0% Total Graphitic Carbon (TGC), a granted mining lease and approved multipurpose licences for processing infrastructure and groundwater extraction. iTech is currently investigating the best pathway to produce "green graphite", including the use of abundant renewable energy available in South Australia. The current metallurgical test program for Campoona has reached a significant milestone with the production of a high-quality >94% flake graphite concentrate, from Campoona, with an estimated recovery of ~84%. This result gives iTech the confidence to pursue a graphite concentrate, for use as a PSG feedstock, with a cost-effective and conventional flow sheet design that doesn't rely on chemical or thermal purification. The test work was undertaken on bulk sample (600 kg) of run-of-mine (ROM) graphite ore collected from reverse circulation and diamond drilling at the Campoona Central Deposit. The drill holes were located within areas representative of low strip ratio mineralisation of prime economic interest. iTech believes that Campoona has the potential to produce a high-quality and cost-competitive flake graphite concentrate suitable to produce PSG for use in the lithium-ion battery sector. The Company is confident that on-going optimisation test-work will continue to improve concentrate grade and recoveries. The first two stages of a 7-stage test work program are now complete. Review of historical test work data – completed; Development of a beneficiation process (flake graphite) - completed, this announcement; Flake graphite sample production (50 kg) – underway; Screening of alternative (non-HF) chemical purification routes; Optimisation of chemical purification; Spherical graphite sample production (2 kg); Confirmation of purification of spherical graphite. Production of a 50 kg bulk sample is now underway. Once complete the chemical purification and spherical graphite sample production stages will commence. Results are expected in late August 2022. The Campoona Graphite Project contains a JORC 2012 graphite Mineral Resource of 8.55 Mt @ 9.0%. iTech has the opportunity to significantly expand its global graphite resources at the Lacroma Graphite Prospect which occurs approximately 30 km to the north of Campoona on EL6643. iTech Minerals owns 100% of the graphite rights on EL6643. Lacroma corresponds to a prominent Electro-Magnetic (EM) signature that has a potential strike extent of over 12 kilometres. Initial drilling at Lacroma recorded very wide intercepts of graphite (60m @ 6.8% TGC). Lacroma graphite, like the graphite at Campoona Shaft and Central Campoona, is high crystalline fine flake graphite. Metallurgical test work undertaken by Archer Materials in 2015 showed that a 98.6% TGC concentrate using the same conventional flotation and leaching conditions as for the Campoona Deposits. This suggests that the same processing circuit planned by iTech could also use graphite ore from Lacroma. iTech is currently planning a substantial drilling program to test the full 12 km extent of the Lacroma EM anomaly. Further drilling at Lacroma has the potential to support a substantial Mineral Resource upgrade. Annuncio • Apr 14
iTech Minerals Ltd Announces Significant REE Prospect Discovered At Caralue Bluff The aim of the initial phase of drilling by iTech Minerals Ltd. was to test the potential for ion adsorption clay (IAC) REE mineralisation at the Ethiopia, Bartels, Burtons and Caralue Bluff Prospects on the Eyre Peninsula in South Australia. iTech has confirmed, from recently received drill results, that significant intersections of REEs occur within the weathered horizon at both the Caralue Bluff Prospect and Burtons Prospect, in addition to the previously confirmed Ethiopia and Bartels Prospects. All these prospects can now be confirmed to have the potential to form IAC REE style mineralisation. Metallurgical work on mineralised samples will be required to test the extent to which the REEs are easily leachable. Annuncio • Apr 08
iTech Minerals Ltd Reports Eyre Peninsula Kaolin-Ree Maiden Drilling Complete iTech Minerals Ltd. reported that its maiden drilling campaign has been completed at the company's Eyre Peninsula tenement package, targeting REE ionic adsorption clay (IAC REE) and high purity kaolin mineralization. The company has completed a total of 478 drill holes across 4 prospects for a total of 9,805m of drilling. Most samples have already been submitted for analysis with the remaining holes to be submitted over the coming weeks. Ethiopia Kaolin - IAC REE Prospect: Having identified extensive enrichment of REE's in kaolinitic clays, across an area more than 1.3 km x 1 km, at the Ethiopia Prospect, the company has drilled 115 additional holes. The average hole depth was 18m which demonstrates a thick weathered profile in which to host kaolin and REE mineralization. The program has been expanded due to the identification of thick intervals of bright white kaolin in the west of the project area. The zone of drilling is now designed to infill and extend the mineralization to an area of approximately 4.6 km x 3 km with a focus on extending high grade mineralization at the end of historical drilling in ETH-029 which intersected 32m at 1,633 ppm TREO (<45m). Approximately 64 of the 115 drill holes (56%) have been submitted for analysis with the remaining 51 drill holes to be submitted in coming weeks. Burtons Kaolin - IAC REE Prospect: The company has identified significant rare earth element mineralization in the clay rich, weathering profile at the Burtons Prospect on the Eyre Peninsula, South Australia. The rare earths display significant enrichment of neodymium and praesidium (~23% Nd+Pr), which are critical in the production of permanent magnets for electric vehicles and renewable energy. They also display significant enrichment in desirable heavy rare earth element oxides (~39% HREO) which command a premium price. The company has currently drilled 54 holes at the Burtons Prospect over an area of 12km x 3km to test the full extent of the clay hosted REE mineralization. All 54 drill holes have been submitted for analysis (100%). Caralue Bluff Kaolin Prospect: The Caralue Bluff Prospect has bright white kaolin confirmed in drilling at <10m depth, up to 17m thick, in two drill holes over 5 km apart (. Historical partial chemical and mineralogical analyses of the bulk raw clay from one drill hole recorded relative high kaolinite content (~70%) with total Fe2O3 of 0.55% and raw brightness of 87% according to the TAPPI 646m-54 standard. The high purity and brightness of this material makes it well suited to high purity alumina feedstock, paper coating and filler applications. The company has now completed an extensive drilling program covering an area of 12 km x 12 km for a total of approximately 260 holes. Approximately 130, or 50%, of drill holes have been submitted for analysis with the remaining samples to be submitted in the coming two weeks. Bartels IAC REE Prospect: As announced on 22 March 2022, the company has identified REE mineralization in the weathered, clay rich horizon at the Bartels Prospect, in the southernmost part of the Eyre Peninsula tenement package. The company has completed 49 drill holes for 630m at an average depth of 13m across an area of approximately 4km x 2km to test this target. Significant intersections include: BAAC22-008 - 15m at 1,594 ppm TREO from 12m; BAAC22-010 - 16m at 936 ppm TREO from 4m; BAAC22-021 - 15m at 724 ppm TREO from 0 m; BAAC22-007 - 17m at 583 ppm TREO from 13m. Annuncio • Feb 16
iTech Minerals Ltd to Report Significant Drilling Progress on its Eyre Peninsula Tenement Package iTech Minerals Ltd. to report significant drilling progress on its Eyre Peninsula tenement package, targeting REE ionic adsorption clay (IAC REE) and high purity kaolin mineralisation. The Company has been achieving very high rates of drilling, averaging 330m and 19 holes per day placing the program well ahead of schedule. iTech has identified a new zone of REE mineralisation in a weathered, clay rich horizon at the Bartels Prospect, in the southernmost part of the Eyre Peninsula tenement package. In 2012, Archer Materials drilled 3 reverse circulation drill holes targeting gold mineralisation in epithermal systems. One drill hole, EPIRC12_003, intersected significant rare earth elements in what is described as kaolinised coarse grained felsic. EPIRC12_003 intersected 21m @ 2,298 ppm TREO from 55-76m - including 9 m @ 3,054 ppm TREO from 55-64m and 7 m @ 2,626 ppm TREO from 69-76m. iTech has completed 49 drill holes for 630m at an average depth of 13m across an area of approximately 4km x 2km to test this target. Having identified extensive enrichment of REE's in kaolinitic clays, across an area in excess of 1.3 km x 1 km, at the Ethiopia Prospect, iTech has drilled 62 additional holes. The average hole depth was 20m which demonstrates a thick weathered profile in which to host kaolin and REE mineralisation. The program has been expanded due to the identification of thick intervals of bright white kaolin in the west of the project area. The zone of drilling is now designed to infill and extend the mineralisation to an area of approximately 2.5 km x 2.5 km with a focus on extending high grade mineralisation at the end of historical drilling in ETH-029 which intersected 32m @ 1,633 ppm TREO (<45m). iTech has identified significant rare earth element mineralisation in the clay rich, weathering profile at the Burtons Prospect on the Eyre Peninsula, South Australia. The rare earths display significant enrichment of neodymium and praesidium (approximately 23% Nd+Pr), which are critical in the production of permanent magnets for electric vehicles and renewable energy. They also display significant enrichment in desirable heavy rare earth element oxides (approximately 39% HREO) which command a premium price. Representative samples from Burtons Prospect have been sent to the ANSTO laboratories in Sydney where they specialise in the metallurgical extraction of REE from IAC deposits. The results will give an indication of expected recoveries and whether ionic adsorption plays a significant role in the REE mineralisation style. iTech has currently drilled approximately 18 of 50 planned holes at the Burtons Prospect over an area of 12km x 3km to test the full extent of the clay hosted REE mineralisation. Drilling is expected to be completed within 5 days after which the drill rig will move to the Caralue Bluff Prospect. The Caralue Bluff Prospect has bright white kaolin confirmed in drilling at <10m depth, up to 17m thick, in two drill holes over 5 km apart. Historical partial chemical and mineralogical analyses of the bulk raw clay from one drill hole recorded relative high kaolinite content (approximately 70%) with total Fe2O3 of 0.55% and raw brightness of 87% according to the TAPPI 646m-54 standard. The high purity and brightness of this material makes it well suited to high purity alumina feedstock, paper coating and filler applications. The Company has an extensive drilling program planned to cover an area of 12km x 12km for a total of approximately 194 holes. In addition to the two drill holes that intersect bright white kaolin, numerous dams and council rubble pits in the region reveal white kaolin exposed at surface over. Annuncio • Feb 08
iTech Minerals Ltd Commences an Extensive Drilling Program, Across its Eyre Peninsula Tenement Package, Targeting REE Ionic Adsorption Clay (IAC REE) and High Purity Kaolin Mineralisation iTech Minerals Ltd. announced that it has commenced an extensive drilling program, across its Eyre Peninsula tenement package, targeting REE ionic adsorption clay (IAC REE) and high purity kaolin mineralisation. The Company has been able to secure a drill rig earlier than anticipated and has now commenced drilling at the Bartels Prospect for IAC REE. The drill rig has become available on the condition it can meet a previous commitment for two weeks of drilling on a nearby project starting in the last week of February. iTech aims to be nearing completion of drilling at its three IAC REE prospects by this stage and will then redeploy the drill rig to complete drilling at the high purity kaolin Caralue Bluff Project once the rig returns. iTech has identified a new zone of REE mineralisation in a weathered, clay rich horizon at the Bartels Prospect, in the southernmost part of the Eyre Peninsula tenement package. In 2012, Archer Materials drilled 3 reverse circulation drill holes targeting gold mineralisation in epithermal systems. One drill hole, EPIRC12_003, intersected significant rare earth elements in what is described as kaolinised coarse grained felsic. iTech intends to drill approximately 50 drill holes across an area of approximately 4km x 2km to test this target. Having identified extensive enrichment of REE's in kaolinitic clays, across an area in excess of 1.3 km x 1 km, at the Ethiopia Prospect, iTech plans to drill approximately 65 additional holes. The program is designed to infill and extend the mineralisation to an area of approximately 2.5 km x 1.5 km with a focus on extending high grade mineralisation at the end of historical drilling in ETH-029 which intersected 32m @ 1633 ppm TREO (<45m). iTech has identified significant rare earth element mineralisation in the clay rich, weathering profile at the Burtons Prospect on the Eyre Peninsula, South Australia. The rare earths display significant enrichment of neodymium and praesidium (approximately 23% Nd+Pr), which are critical in the production of permanent magnets for electric vehicles and renewable energy. They also display significant enrichment in desirable heavy rare earth element oxides (approximately 39% HREO) which command a premium price. A detailed review of historical data, from drilling undertaken by Archer Materials Ltd. in 2011, identified thick intervals of up to 32m of REE rich, clay dominant material, over an area extending over 1 km in a north-south direction. Of the 19 drill holes, 15 holes had high levels of REE mineralisation consistent with ion adsorption clay (IAC) style mineralisation. The results show thick intervals of clay rich material near surface with high levels of total rare earth element oxides. Representative samples from Burtons Prospect are being sent to the ANSTO laboratories in Sydney where they specialise in the metallurgical extraction of REE from IAC deposits. The results will give an indication of expected recoveries and whether ionic adsorption plays a significant role in the REE mineralisation style. iTech plans to drill approximately 64 holes at the Burtons Prospect over an area of 12km x 3km to test the full extent of the clay hosted REE mineralisation. The Caralue Bluff Prospect has bright white kaolin confirmed in drilling at <10m depth, up to 17m thick, in two drill holes over 5 km apart. Historical partial chemical and mineralogical analyses of the bulk raw clay from one drill hole recorded relative high kaolinite content (approximately 70%) with total Fe 2O3 of 0.55% and raw brightness of 87% according to the TAPPI 646m-54 standard. The high purity and brightness of this material makes it well suited to high purity alumina feedstock, paper coating and filler applications. The Company has an extensive drilling program planned to cover an area of 12 km x 12km for a total of approximately 194 holes. In addition to the two drill holes that intersect bright white kaolin, numerous dams and council rubble pits in the region reveal white kaolin exposed at surface over. Annuncio • Jan 19
iTech Minerals Ltd Announces Exploration Program Underway at Eyre Peninsula Kaolin-REE Project iTech Minerals Ltd. provided update on exploration progress heading into the new year. Ionic Clay Metallurgy: iTech has submitted 20 samples across two of its REE prospects at Ethiopia and Burtons (formerly Salt Creek) for metallurgical test work to determine the extent of ionic adsorption of REEs present in the clays at each prospect. Samples have been sent to the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO) to undertake scoping test work. The main objective is to assess the leachability of rare earths, under typical desorption conditions applied to ionic clay deposits (IAC) with results expected prior to the commencement of drilling. The samples have been selected to represent different levels within the weathering profile spatial distributed across the prospects. This will help iTech understand to what degree ionic adsorption plays a role in the REE mineralisation at each prospect and how it may vary within the system. Drilling Progress: The Company has been busy contacting landowners on its Eyre Peninsula tenements, post-harvest, to obtain permission to access the land for drilling. Access to all prospects has now been granted and a drill rig secured to commence drilling next month. Over 370 drill holes are planned to be drilled across four prospects on the central Eyre Peninsula, targeting both kaolin (kaolin-halloysite and HPA) and kaolin-IAC REE styles of mineralisation. Bartels IAC REE Prospect: iTech has identified a new zone of REE mineralisation in a weathered, clay rich horizon at the Bartels Prospect, in the southernmost part of the Eyre Peninsula tenement package. In 2012, Archer Materials drilled 3 reverse circulation drill holes targeting gold mineralisation in epithermal systems. One drill hole, EPIRC12_003, intersected significant rare earth elements in what is described as kaolinised coarse grained felsic, this hole was drilled in an attempt to identify strike extensions to gold mineralisation. EPIRC12_003 intersected 21m @ 2298 ppm TREO from 55-76m; including 9 m @ 3054 ppm TREO from 55-56m; and 7 m @ 2626 ppm TREO from 69-76m; EPIRC12_001 and EPIRC12_002 intersected alteration and significant gold mineralisation but didn't intersect the kaolinitic felsic unit identified in EPIRC12_003. Due to the depth of the mineralisation, there is some question as to whether it could be ionic in nature. The mineralized interval appears to be a preferentially weathered zone of felsic intrusive within layered metasediments of the Hutchison Group Metasediments. A review of the chip trays from the drilling does suggest that the influence of lateritic weathering extends well below the mineralized horizon, potentially preferentially weathering certain units. More importantly weathered equivalents of the felsic outcrop extensively in the vicinity of the drill hole and provide a significant IAC REE target in the upcoming drilling program. iTech intends to drill approximately 50 drill holes across an area of approximately 4km x 2km to test this target. Ethiopia Kaolin IAC REE Prospect: Having identified extensive enrichment of REE's in kaolinitic clays, across an area in excess of 1.3 km x 1 km, at the Ethiopia Prospect, iTech plans to drill approximately 65 additional holes. The program is designed to infill and extend the mineralisation to an area of approximately 2.5 km x 1.5 km with a focus on extending high grade mineralisation at the end of historical drilling in ETH-029 which intersected 32m @ 1633 ppm TREO (<45m). Burtons (Salt Creek) IAC REE Prospect: iTech has identified significant rare earth element mineralisation in the clay rich, weathering profile at the Burtons Prospect on the Eyre Peninsula, South Australia (Fig. 1). The rare earths display significant enrichment of neodymium and praesidium (~23% Nd+Pr), which are critical in the production of permanent magnets for electric vehicles and renewable energy. They also display significant enrichment in desirable heavy rare earth element oxides (~39% HREO) which command a premium price. A detailed review of historical data, from drilling undertaken by Archer Materials Ltd. in 2011, identified thick intervals of up to 32m of REE rich, clay dominant material, over an area extending over 1 km in a north-south direction (Fig. 4). Of the 19 drill holes, 15 holes had high levels of REE mineralisation consistent with ion adsorption clay (IAC) style mineralisation. The results show thick intervals of clay rich material near surface with high levels of total rare earth element oxides. Representative samples from Burtons Prospect are being sent to the ANSTO laboratories in Sydney where they specialise in the metallurgical extraction of REE from IAC deposits. The results will give an indication of expected recoveries and whether ionic adsorption plays a significant role in the REE mineralisation style. iTech plans to drill approximately 64 holes at the Burtons Prospect over an area of 12km x 3km to test the full extent of the clay hosted REE mineralisation. Caralue Bluff Kaolin Prospect: The Caralue Bluff Prospect has bright white kaolin confirmed in drilling at <10m depth, up to 17m thick, in two drill holes over 5 km apart. Historical partial chemical and mineralogical analyses of the bulk raw clay from one drill hole recorded relative high kaolinite content (~70%) with total Fe 2O3 of 0.55% and raw brightness of 87% according to the TAPPI 646m-54 standard. The high purity and brightness of this material makes it well suited to high purity alumina feedstock, paper coating and filler applications (ASX Release, Replacement Prospectus, 19 October 2021). The Company has an extensive drilling program planned to cover an area of 12 km x 12km for a total of approximately 194 holes. In addition to the two drill holes that intersect bright white kaolin, numerous dams and council rubble pits in the region reveal white kaolin exposed at surface over. Annuncio • Jan 12
iTech Minerals Ltd Reports Final Batch Analytical Results from Resampling of Historical Drilling At the Ethiopia Prospect on the Eyre Peninsula, South Australia iTech Minerals Ltd. reported final batch analytical results from resampling of historical drilling at the Ethiopia prospect on the Eyre Peninsula, South Australia. The final batch results from beneficiated samples that concentrate the clay fraction. The beneficiated samples are the best reported to date and show an increase in thickness and extent of REE mineralization across the prospect. In particular, the results from drill hole ETH-029 have confirmed iTech's expectation of thick, high-grade rare earth elements (REE) at the end of a line of drilling. The rare earths in ETH-029 continue to display enrichment of neodymium and praseodymium(~24% Nd+Pr), which are critical in the production of permanent magnets for electric vehicles and renewable energy. Significantly, this drill hole also shows a greater enrichment of high value heavy rare earths (~36%). The beneficiation process of sieving the bulk sample, to obtain the -45 µm clay fraction, increases the REE grades between 153 - 311%. iTech has now sent representative samples from Ethiopia and salt creek prospects to the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organization (ANSTO) to undertake scoping test work. The main objective is to assess the leachability of rare earths, under typical desorption conditions applied to ionic clay deposits (IAC), with results expected prior to the commencement of drilling in mid-February 2022. In the meantime, iTech is undertaking preparations to commence drilling across the Eyre Peninsula Kaolin-REE Project. Annuncio • Dec 13
iTech Minerals Ltd Receives Second Batch of Analytical Results from Resampling of Historical Drilling at the Ethiopia Prospect on the Eyre Peninsula, South Australia iTech Minerals Ltd. has received the second batch of analytical results from resampling of historical drilling at the Ethiopia Prospect on the Eyre Peninsula, South Australia. The second batch includes results from both beneficiated samples that concentrate the clay fraction and unbeneficiated samples which are straight from the ground, with no processing. Both sets of results are very positive. The beneficiated samples show an increase in thickness and extent of REE mineralization across the prospect and the unbeneficiated samples indicate continuing improvements to thickness and grade. In particular, the preliminary results from drill hole ETH-029 have confirmed iTech's expectation of thick, high-grade rare earth elements (REE) at the end of a line of drilling. The rare earths in ETH-029 continue to display enrichment of neodymium and praseodymium (~24% Nd+Pr), which are critical in the production of permanent magnets for electric vehicles and renewable energy. Significantly, this drill hole also shows a greater enrichment of high value heavy rare earths (~34%). A detailed review of historical data, from aircore drilling undertaken by Adelaide Exploration Pty Ltd. in 2007, identified thick intervals, up to 24m, of high purity kaolin clay, over an area of approximately 1 km x 1km. Of the 41 aircore holes drilled, a preliminary 10 holes were sub-sampled to assess the potential for high purity kaolin and ion adsorption clay (IAC) REE mineralization. The results were successful and show thick intervals of high purity kaolin at or near surface with coincident total rare earth element oxides (TREO). This encouraged iTech to sample the remaining drill holes. iTech is now undertaking the kaolin beneficiation process on selected samples from the remaining 13 drill holes. In previous samples the REE's have been significantly concentrated in the clay component, upgrading the REE grade on average 184%. This confirms that the REE's are bound to the clay particles, and with the heavy rare earth element and neodymium and praseodymium enrichment, this is possibly an ion adsorption clay style of REE mineralization. Samples are being sent to ANSTO in Sydney to understand the REE recoveries and what proportion might be ionically attached to clays and therefore readily recoverable. Annuncio • Nov 29
iTech Minerals Ltd Updates on New Rare Earth Prospect on Eyre Peninsula iTech Minerals Ltd. has identified significant rare earth element mineralisation in the clay rich, weathering profile at the Salt Creek Prospect on the Eyre Peninsula, South Australia. The rare earths display significant enrichment of neodymium and praesidium (23% Nd+Pr), which are critical in the production of permanent magnets for electric vehicles and renewable energy. They also display significant enrichment in desirable heavy rare earth element oxides (~39% HREO) which command a premium price. Drilling was undertaken by Archer Materials in 2011 while exploring for manganese and returned significant REE results including: SRC11-002 - 30 m @ 511 ppm TREO from 3m; including 2m @ 1306 ppm TREO from 4m; and 3m @ 1327 ppm TREO from 30m; SRC11-003 - 13m @ 1047 ppm TREO from 0m; SRC11-004 - 6m @ 1507 ppm TREO from 16m; and 4m @ 1307 ppm TREO from 30m; SRC11-006 - 12m @ 1698 ppm TREO from 0m; including 4m @ 3093 ppm TREO from 0m; and 5m @ 1439 ppm TREO from 8m; SRC11-012 - 32m @ 891 ppm TREO from 6m; including 16m @ 1137 ppm TREO from 10m; and 2m @ 1079 ppm TREO from 35m; SRC11-014 - 3m @ 1015 ppm TREO from 0m; SRC11-015 - 8m @ 790 ppm TREO from 4m; including 4m @ 1157 ppm TREO from 8m; SRC11-016 - 23m @ 1065 ppm TREO from 12m; including 4m @ 3019 ppm TREO from 20m; and 4m @ 1090ppm TREO from 28m. A detailed review of historical data, from drilling undertaken by Archer Materials Ltd. in 2011, identified thick intervals of up to 32m of REE rich, clay dominant material, over an area extending over 1 km in a north-south direction (Fig. 4). Of the 19 drill holes drilled, 15 holes had high levels of REE mineralisation consistent with ion adsorption clay (IAC) style mineralisation. Significant results from the drilling are presented in Table 1. A full list of results can be found in Appendix 1. The results show thick intervals of clay rich material near surface with high levels of total rare earth element oxides (TREO) (Fig 3). This confirms the Company's view that the Eyre Peninsula Projects have significant potential for IAC style deposits. Results from this work will help guide the Company's upcoming drilling programs to focus on known areas of mineralisation. The 2011 Archer Materials drilling program was targeting manganese rich horizons within Paleoproterozoic Hutchison Group Metasediments. As a matter of good process, they also undertook multielement analysis including the full suite of REEs. At the time IAC REE mineralisation was relatively unknown outside of southern China and the demand for REE were not as strong as today, so the implications were not fully realised. With limited success finding manganese mineralisation at Salt Creek the project was mothballed. iTech considers this a prime example of the value of the high-quality exploration dataset inherited from Archer Materials and how the Company can find significant value inthe 10+ years of exploration undertaken across the tenements at negligible cost. The weathered host rocks at the Salt Creek Prospect are dominated by clastic and chemical metasediments of the Paleoproterozoic Hutchison Group. At this stage, it is unclear what the source of the REEs are, but it is interesting to note that a large REE bearing monzonite (a type of granite) occurs just 3 km to the north-west of the prospect (Fig. 3). It is quite possible that equivalents of this unit intrude the metasediments at Salt Creek and create a source of REEs. The REE grades at Salt Creek are significantly higher than those discovered at Ethiopia so far, however, results from some of the best samples from Ethiopia are yet to be received. While Salt Creek appears to have some potential for kaolin, no test work has been undertaken, and it is currently considered to have more potential as a pure IAC REE prospect. Annuncio • Nov 24
iTech Minerals Ltd Continues to Build Its Portfolio of Critical Minerals Projects iTech Minerals Ltd. continued to build its portfolio of critical minerals projects with delivery of a bulk sample (600 kg) of run-of-mine (ROM) graphite ore to ANZAPLAN in Germany. ANZAPLAN has commenced test work on producing spherical graphite for use in the anodes of Lithium-Ion (Li-ion) batteries using a low-cost, eco-friendly processing route with a smaller environmental footprint. This collaboration will build on the test work completed by Archer Materials between 2015-2019, where they successfully produced battery-grade graphite using a traditional hydrofluoric-acid process. Updates on progress are expected in the coming months with final project results to be delivered within 9 months. Results will be integrated into an updated scoping study to be undertaken in conjunction with the metallurgical test work. The Campoona Graphite Project contains a JORC 2012 graphite Mineral Resource of 8.55 Mt @ 9.0% Total Graphitic Carbon (TGC), a granted mining lease and approved multipurpose licences for processing infrastructure and groundwater extraction1. iTech is currently investigating the best pathway to produce "green" graphite, including the use of abundant renewable energy available in South Australia. iTech believes the Campoona Graphite Project is a significantly de-risked opportunity to supply graphite into the growing battery technology market. It has a JORC 2012 Global Mineral Resource of 8.55 million tonnes at an average grade of 9.0% TGC (5% TGC cut off) across three project areas: Campoona, Central Campoona and Wilclo South1. The grant of a mining lease to the Company to process graphite and two miscellaneous purposes licences to transport water from a nearby bore field makes this project well advanced and a high priority for the Company. As stated in the prospectus, the Company intends to investigate the potential to produce graphene and spherical graphite for use in battery anodes. Archer Materials released a positive scoping study 2 on the Campoona Graphite Project and made significant progress on development of the project, including establishing that Campoona graphite; is structurally near-perfect down to the atomic scale; is a versatile feedstock to high-value graphene materials; can be used to produce commercially scalable full-cell configuration Li-ion batteries5; can be converted into high value spherical graphite for integration into Li-ion batteries6. While battery grade spherical graphite has been successfully produced from Campoona graphite in trials undertaken by Archer Materials1, the test work and scoping study was undertaken over 6 years ago. With advancements in technology and processing techniques, iTech believes the opportunity exists to significantly improve on the economics and environmental footprint of the process by partnering with European based graphite processing specialists ANZAPLAN. ANZAPLAN is a specialist industrial metals consulting and engineering group with a strong focus on strategic minerals and metals businesses (e.g. graphite, lithium minerals, rare earth elements, high purity quartz), providing a one-stop shop solution across all phases of the economic evaluation and process development of strategic minerals projects. ANZAPLAN possesses the technological expertise from its own laboratories, test centre and pilot plant processing facilities including basic and advanced engineering services and extensive experience in the processing of strategic minerals. Based on its experience, ANZAPLAN has set up a tailored test work program for the beneficiation and downstream processing (targeting a battery grade graphite product) of a graphite mineral sample from the Campoona graphite Project that addresses the specifics of the material building on historic test work results provided by iTech. ANZAPLAN proposes to conduct a bench scale metallurgical test work program for the development of a beneficiation process capable of upgrading iTech Minerals' bulk graphite mineral sample(s) into high value saleable products including graphite concentrate and purified spherical graphite for use in anodes of Lithium Ion Batteries.