Empire Metals Ltd (AIM:EEE) said the final 22 reverse circulation holes from the latest programme at the Pitfield Project in Western Australia had also indicated high grades of TiO2 (titanium) mineralisation near the surface.
Consistently higher TiO2 grades were identified in the uppermost 40m of mineralised bedded sandstone, corresponding closely to the near-surface zone of weathering at the key target areas Cosgrove and Thomas.
Lab results confirmed high-grade TiO2 mineralisation from near the surface to the end of the hole. Assays from four deeper diamond drill holes are pending.
Shaun Bunn, Empire's managing director, said the RC results provided more evidence of extensive high-grade titanium mineralisation within the two key target areas.
“What is particularly exciting is the identification of significantly higher TiO2 grades within the highly oxidised saprolite zone found near the surface," he added.
“Logging of the diamond core has confirmed strong, deep weathering of the mineralised sandstones and we have initiated additional mineralogical and metallurgical studies specifically aimed at assessing the grade-enriching effect that weathering appears to have had on the mineral assemblage.
“We have engaged Snowden Optiro, a leading Australian resources consulting and advisory group, to provide independent advice, consulting and training to support our exploration team.”