Maximus Resources Ltd (ASX:MXR)’s recently completed external expert review and sampling of the Lefroy and Larkinville prospects at the Spargoville tenements in Western Australia has confirmed the presence of rare-element lithium-caesium-tantalum (LCT) pegmatites.
Rock sampling of outcropping pegmatites tested during the review revealed elevated levels of lithium, caesium and rubidium, including:
Larkinville Prospect
- 2.7% lithium oxide, 4,170 parts per million (ppm) caesium and 17,250 ppm rubidium;
- 2.0% lithium oxide, 3,230 ppm caesium and 11,650 ppm rubidium; and
- 1.4% lithium oxide, 2,340 ppm caesium and 8,870 ppm rubidium.
Lefroy Prospect
- 1.97% lithium oxide, 1,985 ppm caesium and 9,800 ppm rubidium;
- 1.61% lithium oxide, 2,470 ppm caesium and 7,320 ppm rubidium; and
- 1.49% lithium oxide, 1,290 ppm caesium and 7,710 ppm rubidium.
Review conclusions and forward plan
Maximus says the lithium review confirmed that the majority of the Lefroy and Larkinville pegmatites have moderate to strong fractionation characteristics (indicating an evolution in the present minerals), supported by elevated levels of lithium, rubidium and caesium.
The company is reviewing options to advance its lithium prospects across the Spargoville tenements, in tandem and complementary to Maximus’ existing gold and nickel focus.
Recommendations from the external review and completed fieldwork support a targeted lithium drilling program across several prospects, with specific areas for drill-testing already defined.
The planning and approval process is underway for a drilling program expected to be undertaken in the second half of 2022, subject to approvals.