Eclipse Metals (ASX:EPM) continues to find evidence supporting the development of a direct shipping ore (DSO) manganese mining operation at its Mary Valley Manganese Project near Gympie in Queensland.
Initial results from geophysical surveys support an expanded presence of significant manganese mineralisation at Mary Valley.
The surveys were carried out over three areas of the project: (1) Amamoor No1, Amamoor East and West, and Skyring Creek; (2) Upper Kadanga; and (3) Eel Creek.
Multiple high priority drilling targets have been identified and Eclipse sees potential for significant extensions of known manganese mineralisation at the Eel Creek and Amamoor prospects.
While Eclipse awaits final imagery, it has commissioned an immediate supplemental fieldwork campaign for collection of samples for metallurgical test-work and field reconnaissance.
Mary Valley Manganese Project
The Mary Valley Manganese Project is located 14 kilometres southwest of Gympie in Queensland.
Historically, circa 32,000 tonnes of ore has been mined from the area with a manganese grade ranging from 42% to 51% manganese.
The historical assays indicate that silica, iron and phosphate levels are all within direct shipping ore parameters, which supports the potential for stand-alone mining operations.
The recent surveys were taken over three areas that host known manganese deposits where historical high-grade manganese production has occurred.
The primary objective of the surveys was to generate manganese targets near pre-existing workings.
Analysis
Manganese is a critical ingredient in the booming battery market due to its use in lithium-ion cathodes.
It is also a cheaper metal with a substantial market potential for the battery industry and the iron/steel market.
As the demand for cleaner energy is growing, the strategic significant of Eclipse’s manganese and uranium projects grows.
The company’s share price has increased by 75% in 2017, last trading at $0.007.