REG - CleanTech Lithium - Update on Exploration Stage Projects
29/09/2023 07:00
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RNS Number : 0712O CleanTech Lithium PLC 29 September 2023
29 September 2023
CleanTech Lithium PLC ("CleanTech Lithium", "CTL" or the "Company")
Update on Exploration Stage Projects
CleanTech Lithium PLC (AIM:CTL, Frankfurt:T2N, OTCQX:CTLHF), an exploration
and development company, advancing sustainable lithium projects in Chile for
the clean energy transition, announces an update on activities at two
exploration stage projects - sampling results from the Llamara Project and
commencement of initial geophysics at a new exploration project in the Salar
de Atacama basin.
Llamara Highlights:
· Llamara is a greenfield exploration project with a licence area of
605km(2) located within a large basin in Northern Chile
· The maiden drill programme aimed to test the lithium prospectivity of
two targets, firstly a subsurface brine aquifer and secondly a surface
evaporite mineral
· Brine samples collected from the first well were depleted in lithium
while the first batch of surface samples recorded minor lithium enrichment
along with high grades of boron
· A second batch of surface sample results are pending, and the Company
will then consider the next stage of exploration at the project
Salar de Atacama Highlights:
· Applications lodged and now registered for new licences covering a
total area of 377 km(2) in the Salar de Atacama basin, the leading lithium
production base in the world
· A geophysics programme has commenced with the first completed section
identifying a subsurface brine aquifer target
· Salar de Atacama is designated as a strategic salar by the Chilean
government - any commercial development will require a joint venture with a
state entity holding a majority (51%) stake, which the Company views as
suitable for such a strategically important basin
· Community engagement will also be crucial. CTL´s focus on Direct
Lithium Extraction (DLE), which removes the need for evaporation ponds,
provides a compelling case for a new low impact approach to lithium production
in the Salar de Atacama basin
· Whilst CTL´s exploration stage projects provide upside, the Company
remains fully focused on the advanced Laguna Verde (PFS underway) and
Francisco Basin (Scoping Study completed) projects
Commenting, Aldo Boitano, Chief Executive Officer, of CleanTech Lithium PLC,
said:
"While we continue to progress our key projects Laguna Verde and Francisco
Basin, exploration at additional prospects in Chile is also advancing. At our
Llamara project we are in the process of receiving and evaluating the results,
while initial geophysics results from new licences applied for recently at the
Salar de Atacama basin are very positive. We will continue to update the
market on how we move forward with these projects."
Further Information
Llamara Project Exploration Update
The Llamara Project is a greenfield exploration project where a geophysics
programme identified an interpreted subsurface brine aquifer that has not
previously been drilled for lithium. A secondary target is a surface evaporite
mineral that has been mapped in the licence area and has been sampled in other
areas of the large Llamara basin and where sampling results indicated lithium
enrichment of interest. As a result, the Company undertook an exploration
programme at the project in recent months with two objectives:
(i) Complete an exploration drill hole to intersect and
sample the interpreted brine aquifer
(ii) Complete a sediment sampling programme on the surface
evaporite mineral
An initial exploration drill hole (LL01) intersected a gas bearing interval
requiring the hole to be shut-in, as reported to the market on June 6, 2023.
A second drill hole (LL02) was completed to a depth of 550m. Brine was
intersected at 395m and a total of eight brine samples were collected from the
start of the aquifer to the bottom of the well. The samples were submitted for
analysis to ALS Chile with results showing low grades of lithium.
Sediment samples collected from the LL02 drill core were also analysed for
lithium and showed a rising trend with depth, with the final sample taken at
approximately 545m depth recording the highest value of 120ppm Lithium,
indicating that there is an increasing trend of lithium with depth and that
the brine aquifer below the 550m end of hole may have higher prospectivity.
Figure 1: Lithium Grade of Sediments Collected from LL02 Core Samples
The sampling programme on the surface evaporite deposit was completed with a
total of 23 samples collected. There were two geologically distinct types of
samples collected, the first characterised as loose sediment samples and the
second being the hard evaporite mineral. Laboratory analysis has been
completed on the loose sediment samples which showed minor lithium enrichment
of up to 106ppm Lithium, while high boron grades were notable with three of
the samples exceeding 20,000ppm Boron. Laboratory results are pending for the
hard evaporite mineral samples which in the view of the Company´s geology
team, will be more prospective for lithium. On receiving the final evaporite
mineral sample results, the Company will evaluate and consider the next steps.
Salar de Atacama Project - New Licence Applications and Geophysics Update
From June to August 2023 the Company submitted applications over areas in the
Salar de Atacama basin as shown in Figure 2. The applications, covering a
total area of 377 km(2), have now been registered on the Chilean Mining
Register and it is expected these licences will be granted in the next few
months. Salar de Atacama is the largest lithium production base in the world
where the two leading producers of battery grade lithium, SQM and Albemarle,
have extensive licence positions. Several of CTL´s application blocks are
adjacent to SQM´s licences. Information derived from publicly available
Environmental Studies, conducted by SQM and other organizations suggests that
the lithium-rich brine deposits extend beyond the core salar region inside the
basin. This underscores the promising potential for CTL´s applications in
these areas of significant prospective lithium reserves. A geophysics
programme comprising both Transient Electro Magnetic (TEM) and
Magnetotellurics (MT) lines has commenced with the planned lines shown in
Figure 3. MT allows for the depth profile to extend to 1000m.
Figure 2: CTL Licence
Applications
Figure 3: Planned Geophysics Lines
The geophysics contractor recently completed a section of seven stations
spaced 200m apart on the first west-east transect located on the southern
licence block. The resistivity profile based on the completed section extends
to 1,200m in depth, as shown in Figure 4. The profile shows a low resistivity
anomaly starting from a depth of 400m with an approximate thickness of 200m
which deepens to the south-east. This is interpreted to be a sub-surface
hypersaline aquifer which provides a target for further exploration
evaluation.
Figure 4: MT-TEM Resistivity Profile Salar de Atacama South Block
The Salar de Atacama is by far the largest lithium production base in the
world producing approximately 25% of the world´s battery grade lithium.
Unlike CleanTech Lithium's Laguna Verde and Francisco Basin projects, under
Chile´s National Lithium strategy, Salar de Atacama has been designated a
strategic asset which means any commercial development will require a joint
venture with a state entity holding a majority (51%) stake. The Company
welcomes this framework for any potential development in such a strategically
important site.
In addition, indigenous and local communities live within the Salar de Atacama
basin and have a strong voice on lithium developments. The Company will follow
its established policy of early community engagement before undertaking any
ground disturbance exploration activities. Furthermore, CTL´s focus on
Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) provides a compelling case for a new low
impact approach to lithium production in the Salar de Atacama basin.
Existing producers pump brine from the upper 50m of the salar sub-surface and
use evaporation ponds to concentrate the brine, resulting in a large volume of
water being lost to the atmosphere which depletes the shallow aquifers that
are also used by local communities. Exploration and any potential
development activities by CleanTech Lithium will focus on the deeper aquifer
outside the salar margin and on introducing a new model for sustainable
lithium extraction in the basin, utilising DLE technology where the spent
brine is reinjected into the basin aquifers minimising aquifer depletion.
Competent Person
The information in this release relates to drilling results, geology, brine
assays reports and sediment sampling are based on information compiled by
Christian Gert Feddersen Welkner, who is an independent Qualified Person to
the Company and is a Member of Comision Calificadora de Competencias en
Recursos y Reservas Mineras Chile that is a 'Recognised Professional
Organisation' (RPO). Mr Feddersen has sufficient experience that is relevant
to the style of mineralization and type of deposit under consideration and to
the activity being undertaken to qualify as a Competent Person as defined in
the 2012 Edition of the 'Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration
Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves'. Mr Feddersen consents to the
inclusion in the press release of the matters based on his information in the
form and context in which it appears.
Llamara - JORC Code, 2012 Edition - Table 1 report template
Section 1 Sampling Techniques and Data
(Criteria in this section apply to all succeeding sections.)
Criteria JORC Code explanation Commentary
Sampling techniques · Nature and quality of sampling (eg cut channels, random chips, or · Subsurface brine samples were collected using a specialized
specific specialised industry standard measurement tools appropriate to the packer sampling technique. A packer bit tool supplied by the drilling company
minerals under investigation, such as down hole gamma sondes, or handheld XRF Big Bear was utilized. Following the sealing of the sampling support, a
instruments, etc). These examples should not be taken as limiting the broad thorough purging procedure was executed until no traces of drilling mud were
meaning of sampling. discernible. Subsequently, a thirty-minute waiting period was observed to
facilitate the ingress of brine into the drilling rods through the slots in
· Include reference to measures taken to ensure sample representivity the packer tool, enabling to proceed with the sampling process using a double
and the appropriate calibration of any measurement tools or systems used. valve bailer.
· Aspects of the determination of mineralisation that are Material to
the Public Report.
· Successive one-liter samples were collected, with a half-hour
· In cases where 'industry standard' work has been done this would be interval between each, using a double valve bailer made of steel. For each
relatively simple (eg 'reverse circulation drilling was used to obtain 1 m sample, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) using a Hanna Multiparameter model
samples from which 3 kg was pulverised to produce a 30 g charge for fire HI98192 based on conductivity were measured. The final two samples that
assay'). In other cases more explanation may be required, such as where there exhibited consistent and stable TDS values were designated as the Original and
is coarse gold that has inherent sampling problems. Unusual commodities or Reject samples, signifying their non-contaminated status.
mineralisation types (eg submarine nodules) may warrant disclosure of detailed
information. · Packer samples were obtained every 27 m support in general due the
tools movement involved to take every sample.
· For all samples, the materials and sampling bottles were first
flushed with 100 cc of brine water before receiving the final sample
· Two Packer samples were obtained in well LL01 and eight, in well
LL02.
· Ten selected 500 grams entire core pieces were selected from LL02
drillhole for laboratory analysis.
· 1 km X 1 km surface soil samples between 2 to 3 kilograms were
obtained from Llamara south tenements for analysis
Drilling techniques · Drill type (eg core, reverse circulation, open-hole hammer, rotary · On both wells LL01 and LL02, diamond drilling with PQ3 diameter down
air blast, auger, Bangka, sonic, etc) and details (eg core diameter, triple or to 197.7 m and 149 m respectively. Below that depth the drilling diameter was
standard tube, depth of diamond tails, face-sampling bit or other type, reduced to HQ3 to the end of hole.
whether core is oriented and if so, by what method, etc).
· In both diameters, a triple tube was used for the core recovery.
· Packer bit provided by Big Bear was used to obtain brine samples.
Drill sample recovery · Method of recording and assessing core and chip sample recoveries and · Diamond Core recovery were assured by direct supervision and
results assessed. continuous geotechnical logging done by ROKO geological consultants
· Measures taken to maximise sample recovery and ensure representative
nature of the samples.
· Whether a relationship exists between sample recovery and grade and
whether sample bias may have occurred due to preferential loss/gain of
fine/coarse material.
Logging · Whether core and chip samples have been geologically and · Continue geological and geotechnical logging took place during
geotechnically logged to a level of detail to support appropriate Mineral drilling done by ROKO geological consultants
Resource estimation, mining studies and metallurgical studies.
· For the sub surface brine packer samples conductivity-based TDS,
· Whether logging is qualitative or quantitative in nature. Core (or Temperature °C and pH parameters were measured during the sampling
costean, channel, etc) photography.
· The total length and percentage of the relevant intersections logged.
Sub-sampling techniques and sample preparation · If core, whether cut or sawn and whether quarter, half or all core · During LL02 brine samples batch preparation process, the samples
taken. were transferred to new sampling bottles. Standard (internal standard composed
by known stable brine), Duplicates and Blank samples (distilled water) were
· If non-core, whether riffled, tube sampled, rotary split, etc and randomly included in the batch in the rate of one every ten original samples.
whether sampled wet or dry. After check samples insertion, all samples were re-numbered before submitted
to laboratory. Before transferring each sample, the materials used for the
· For all sample types, the nature, quality and appropriateness of the transfer were flushed with distilled water and then shacked to remove water
sample preparation technique. excess avoiding contamination.
· Quality control procedures adopted for all sub-sampling stages to
maximise representivity of samples.
· Measures taken to ensure that the sampling is representative of the
in situ material collected, including for instance results for field
duplicate/second-half sampling.
· Whether sample sizes are appropriate to the grain size of the
material being sampled.
Quality of assay data and laboratory tests · The nature, quality and appropriateness of the assaying and · Brine samples were assayed on ALS Life Science Chile laboratory
laboratory procedures used and whether the technique is considered partial or by the following analysis:
total.
· Total Metals Full Elemental Swift analysis method using ICP-OES,
· For geophysical tools, spectrometers, handheld XRF instruments, etc, described on QWI-IO-ICP-OES- 01 Edisión A, Modification 0 EPA 3005A; EPA
the parameters used in determining the analysis including instrument make and 200.2
model, reading times, calibrations factors applied and their derivation, etc.
· Alkalinity by method described in QWI-IO-ALC-01 Emisión B mod. 4
· Nature of quality control procedures adopted (eg standards, blanks,
duplicates, external laboratory checks) and whether acceptable levels of · Anions by crotomography by method described in QWI-IO-ANA-01
accuracy (ie lack of bias) and precision have been established. Emisión B, mod. 7 QWI-IO-EXT-01 Emisión B, mod. 3
Density by method described on QWI-IO-Density-02 (Issue A Modification 1).
· Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) with method described in
QWI-IO-SDT-01 Emisión B mod. 5
· Sulfate according method described on 4500-SO42-.
· Duplicates were obtained randomly during the brine sampling.
Also, Blanks (distilled water) and Standards were randomly inserted during the
laboratory batch preparation on LL02 well samples.
· Standards were internally prepared on the Copiapó warehouse
installations, using 200 liters of brine obtained from well LV02 during the
development process. Standard nominal Lithium grade was calculated in a round
robin process that include 04 laboratories (Ch. Feddersen Standards
preparation, statistical analysis, nominal valuation & laboratories
analysis, February 2023)
· Core samples were assayed on AGS laboratory in Coquimbo by Fusion
ICP-OES method
· Soil samples were assayed on ALS laboratory by Soil ICP-MS
method
Verification of sampling and assaying · The verification of significant intersections by either independent · Brine, core and soil samples batches were prepared by ROKO consultant
or alternative company personnel. personnel according the Competent Person instructions.
· The use of twinned holes.
· Documentation of primary data, data entry procedures, data
verification, data storage (physical and electronic) protocols.
· Discuss any adjustment to assay data.
Location of data points · Accuracy and quality of surveys used to locate drill holes (collar · Surface samples coordinates were captured with non-differential hand
and down-hole surveys), trenches, mine workings and other locations used in held GPS
Mineral Resource estimation.
· Drillhole collars were captured with non-differential hand held GPS.
· Specification of the grid system used. Position was verified by the mining concessions field markings. Total station
topographic capture of the drillhole collars is pending
· Quality and adequacy of topographic control.
· The coordinate system is UTM, Datum WGS84 Zone 19K
Data spacing and distribution · Data spacing for reporting of Exploration Results. · Packer brine samples were taken in general every 27 m
· Whether the data spacing and distribution is sufficient to establish · Surface soil samples were obtained in a 1 km X 1 km grid
the degree of geological and grade continuity appropriate for the Mineral
Resource and Ore Reserve estimation procedure(s) and classifications applied. · The author believes that the data spacing and distribution is
sufficient to establish the degree of geological and grade continuity
· Whether sample compositing has been applied. appropriate to report Exploration Results
Orientation of data in relation to geological structure · Whether the orientation of sampling achieves unbiased sampling of · The drilling orientation and surface sampling is direct
possible structures and the extent to which this is known, considering the
deposit type.
· If the relationship between the drilling orientation and the
orientation of key mineralised structures is considered to have introduced a
sampling bias, this should be assessed and reported if material.
Sample security · The measures taken to ensure sample security. · All brine samples were marked and keep on site before transporting
them to Copiapó city warehouse
· The brine water samples were transported without any perturbation
directly to a warehouse in Copiapó city, were laboratory samples batch was
prepared and stored in sealed plastic boxes, then sent via currier to ALS
laboratory in Santiago. All the process was made under the Competent Person
instructions.
· ALS personnel report that the samples were received without any
problem or disturbance
Audits or reviews · The results of any audits or reviews of sampling techniques and data. · The assay data was verified by the Competent Person against the assay
certificate.
· No audits has been done in Llamara
Section 2 Reporting of Exploration Results
(Criteria listed in the preceding section also apply to this section.)
Criteria JORC Code explanation Commentary
Mineral tenement and land tenure status · Type, reference name/number, location and ownership including · CleanTech Lithium holds in Llamara 60,500 hectares of Exploration
agreements or material issues with third parties such as joint ventures, Mining Concessions were the company have preferential rights over 58,335
partnerships, overriding royalties, native title interests, historical sites, hectares.
wilderness or national park and environmental settings.
· All prohibition certificates in favour of CLS Chile SpA The Competent
· The security of the tenure held at the time of reporting along with Person relies in the Mining Expert Surveyor Mr, Juan Bedmar.
any known impediments to obtaining a licence to operate in the area.
· All concession acquisition costs and taxes have been fully paid and
that there are no claims or liens against them
· There are no known impediments to obtain the licence to operate in
the area
Exploration done by other parties · Acknowledgment and appraisal of exploration by other parties. · Exploration works has been done by several parties on clay lithium
potential.
Geology · Deposit type, geological setting and style of mineralisation. · Llamara corresponds a salar and paleo salar with Lithium in brine
potential and Lithium potential in clay beds and surface saline deposits
Drill hole Information · A summary of all information material to the understanding of the · The following drillhole coordinates are in WGS84 zone 19 K Datum
exploration results including a tabulation of the following information for
all Material drill holes: · LL01 E467,000 N7,617,000 ELEV 1,134 m a.s.l.
Azimuth 0°, dip -90°, Length 293 m
o easting and northing of the drill hole collar
· LL02 E461,000 N7,617,000 ELEV 1,065 m a.s.l.
o elevation or RL (Reduced Level - elevation above sea level in metres) of the
Azimuth 0°, dip -90°, Length 550 m
drill hole collar
o dip and azimuth of the hole
o down hole length and interception depth
o hole length.
· If the exclusion of this information is justified on the basis that
the information is not Material and this exclusion does not detract from the
understanding of the report, the Competent Person should clearly explain why
this is the case.
Data aggregation methods · In reporting Exploration Results, weighting averaging techniques, · Not applied at this exploration level
maximum and/or minimum grade truncations (eg cutting of high grades) and
cut-off grades are usually Material and should be stated.
· Where aggregate intercepts incorporate short lengths of high grade
results and longer lengths of low grade results, the procedure used for such
aggregation should be stated and some typical examples of such aggregations
should be shown in detail.
· The assumptions used for any reporting of metal equivalent values
should be clearly stated.
Relationship between mineralisation widths and intercept lengths · These relationships are particularly important in the reporting of · The relationship between aquifer widths and intercept lengths are
Exploration Results. direct
· If the geometry of the mineralisation with respect to the drill hole
angle is known, its nature should be reported.
· If it is not known and only the down hole lengths are reported, there
should be a clear statement to this effect (eg 'down hole length, true width
not known').
Diagrams · Appropriate maps and sections (with scales) and tabulations of · Addressed in the report
intercepts should be included for any significant discovery being reported
These should include, but not be limited to a plan view of drill hole collar
locations and appropriate sectional views.
Balanced reporting · Where comprehensive reporting of all Exploration Results is not · All results have been included.
practicable, representative reporting of both low and high grades and/or
widths should be practiced to avoid misleading reporting of Exploration
Results.
Other substantive exploration data · Other exploration data, if meaningful and material, should be · Natural gas reservoir was intercepted with LL01 drillhole at 293 m.
reported including (but not limited to): geological observations; geophysical This situation doesn't permit the further drilling on this position due safety
survey results; geochemical survey results; bulk samples - size and method of considerations. Natural gas potential should be studied in the future.
treatment; metallurgical test results; bulk density, groundwater, geotechnical
and rock characteristics; potential deleterious or contaminating substances.
Further work · The nature and scale of planned further work (eg tests for lateral
extensions or depth extensions or large-scale step-out drilling).
· Make a Magneto Telluric geophysical survey to study the brine
· Diagrams clearly highlighting the areas of possible extensions, potential in high depth in the tenements area. Depending on the results
including the main geological interpretations and future drilling areas, consider to drill a deep exploration drillhole.
provided this information is not commercially sensitive.
Section 3 Estimation and Reporting of Mineral Resources
(Criteria listed in section 1, and where relevant in section 2, also apply to
this section.)
Criteria JORC Code explanation Commentary
Database integrity · Measures taken to ensure that data has not been corrupted by, for · Cross-check of laboratory assay reports and Database
example, transcription or keying errors, between its initial collection and
its use for Mineral Resource estimation purposes. · All databases were built from original data by the Competent Person
· Data validation procedures used.
Site visits · Comment on any site visits undertaken by the Competent Person and the · A site visit was undertaken by the Competent
outcome of those visits.
Person in several times on January, April and May, 2023. The outcome of the
· If no site visits have been undertaken indicate why this is the case. visits were the drillholes organization and installation, Roko geological
personnel Packer sampling protocol training and drilling & sampling
supervision.
Geological interpretation · Confidence in (or conversely, the uncertainty of ) the geological · For the Sub-Surface Resource, the geological interpretation was made
interpretation of the mineral deposit. based on the public DGA seismic geophysics and ENAMI Hylarico01 drillhole.
· Nature of the data used and of any assumptions made.
· The effect, if any, of alternative interpretations on Mineral · Drillholes confirm the geological interpretations
Resource estimation.
· The use of geology in guiding and controlling Mineral Resource
estimation.
· The factors affecting continuity both of grade and geology.
Dimensions · The extent and variability of the Mineral Resource expressed as · Not applied for Exploration Results
length (along strike or otherwise), plan width, and depth below surface to the
upper and lower limits of the Mineral Resource.
Estimation and modelling techniques
· The nature and appropriateness of the estimation technique(s) applied · Not applied for Exploration Results
and key assumptions, including treatment of extreme grade values, domaining,
interpolation parameters and maximum distance of extrapolation from data
points. If a computer assisted estimation method was chosen include a
description of computer software and parameters used.
· The availability of check estimates, previous estimates and/or mine
production records and whether the Mineral Resource estimate takes appropriate
account of such data.
· The assumptions made regarding recovery of by-products.
· Estimation of deleterious elements or other non-grade variables of
economic significance (eg sulphur for acid mine drainage characterisation).
· In the case of block model interpolation, the block size in relation
to the average sample spacing and the search employed.
· Any assumptions behind modelling of selective mining units.
· Any assumptions about correlation between variables.
· Description of how the geological interpretation was used to control
the resource estimates.
· Discussion of basis for using or not using grade cutting or capping.
· The process of validation, the checking process used, the comparison
of model data to drill hole data, and use of reconciliation data if available.
Moisture · Whether the tonnages are estimated on a dry basis or with natural · Not applicable for brine resources
moisture, and the method of determination of the moisture content.
Cut-off parameters · The basis of the adopted cut-off grade(s) or quality parameters · No cut-off grade was applied
applied.
Mining factors or assumptions · Assumptions made regarding possible mining methods, minimum mining · Not applied for Exploration Results
dimensions and internal (or, if applicable, external) mining dilution. It is
always necessary as part of the process of determining reasonable prospects
for eventual economic extraction to consider potential mining methods, but the
assumptions made regarding mining methods and parameters when estimating
Mineral Resources may not always be rigorous. Where this is the case, this
should be reported with an explanation of the basis of the mining assumptions
made.
Metallurgical factors or assumptions · The basis for assumptions or predictions regarding metallurgical · Not applied for Exploration Results
amenability. It is always necessary as part of the process of determining
reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction to consider potential
metallurgical methods, but the assumptions regarding metallurgical treatment
processes and parameters made when reporting Mineral Resources may not always
be rigorous. Where this is the case, this should be reported with an
explanation of the basis of the metallurgical assumptions made.
Environmen-tal factors or assumptions · Assumptions made regarding possible waste and process residue · The main environmental impacts expected is the main plant
disposal options. It is always necessary as part of the process of determining installations, the surface disturbance associated with production wells and
reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction to consider the brine mixing ponds. These impacts are not expected to prevent project
potential environmental impacts of the mining and processing operation. While development
at this stage the determination of potential environmental impacts,
particularly for a greenfields project, may not always be well advanced, the
status of early consideration of these potential environmental impacts should
be reported. Where these aspects have not been considered this should be
reported with an explanation of the environmental assumptions made.
Bulk density · Whether assumed or determined. If assumed, the basis for the
assumptions. If determined, the method used, whether wet or dry, the frequency
of the measurements, the nature, size and representativeness of the samples. · Not applied for Exploration Results.
· The bulk density for bulk material must have been measured by methods
that adequately account for void spaces (vugs, porosity, etc), moisture and
differences between rock and alteration zones within the deposit.
· Discuss assumptions for bulk density estimates used in the evaluation
process of the different materials.
Classification · The basis for the classification of the Mineral Resources into · Not applied for Exploration Results
varying confidence categories.
· Whether appropriate account has been taken of all relevant factors
(ie relative confidence in tonnage/grade estimations, reliability of input
data, confidence in continuity of geology and metal values, quality, quantity
and distribution of the data).
· Whether the result appropriately reflects the Competent Person's view
of the deposit.
Audits or reviews · The results of any audits or reviews of Mineral Resource estimates. · No audits or reviews has been taken
Discussion of relative accuracy/ confidence · Where appropriate a statement of the relative accuracy and confidence · Not applied for Exploration Results
level in the Mineral Resource estimate using an approach or procedure deemed
appropriate by the Competent Person. For example, the application of
statistical or geostatistical procedures to quantify the relative accuracy of
the resource within stated confidence limits, or, if such an approach is not
deemed appropriate, a qualitative discussion of the factors that could affect
the relative accuracy and confidence of the estimate.
· The statement should specify whether it relates to global or local
estimates, and, if local, state the relevant tonnages, which should be
relevant to technical and economic evaluation. Documentation should include
assumptions made and the procedures used.
· These statements of relative accuracy and confidence of the estimate
should be compared with production data, where available.
Salar de Atacama - JORC Code, 2012 Edition - Table 1 report template
Section 1 Sampling Techniques and Data
(Criteria in this section apply to all succeeding sections.)
Criteria JORC Code explanation Commentary
Sampling techniques · Nature and quality of sampling (eg cut channels, random chips, or · No sampling has been executed in the tenements
specific specialised industry standard measurement tools appropriate to the
minerals under investigation, such as down hole gamma sondes, or handheld XRF
instruments, etc). These examples should not be taken as limiting the broad
meaning of sampling.
· Include reference to measures taken to ensure sample representivity
and the appropriate calibration of any measurement tools or systems used.
· Aspects of the determination of mineralisation that are Material to
the Public Report.
· In cases where 'industry standard' work has been done this would be
relatively simple (eg 'reverse circulation drilling was used to obtain 1 m
samples from which 3 kg was pulverised to produce a 30 g charge for fire
assay'). In other cases more explanation may be required, such as where there
is coarse gold that has inherent sampling problems. Unusual commodities or
mineralisation types (eg submarine nodules) may warrant disclosure of detailed
information.
Drilling techniques · Drill type (eg core, reverse circulation, open-hole hammer, rotary · No drilling has been executed in the tenements
air blast, auger, Bangka, sonic, etc) and details (eg core diameter, triple or
standard tube, depth of diamond tails, face-sampling bit or other type,
whether core is oriented and if so, by what method, etc).
Drill sample recovery · Method of recording and assessing core and chip sample recoveries and · No drilling has been executed in the tenements
results assessed.
· Measures taken to maximise sample recovery and ensure representative
nature of the samples.
· Whether a relationship exists between sample recovery and grade and
whether sample bias may have occurred due to preferential loss/gain of
fine/coarse material.
Logging · Whether core and chip samples have been geologically and · No drilling or sampling has been executed in the tenements
geotechnically logged to a level of detail to support appropriate Mineral
Resource estimation, mining studies and metallurgical studies.
· Whether logging is qualitative or quantitative in nature. Core (or
costean, channel, etc) photography.
· The total length and percentage of the relevant intersections logged.
Sub-sampling techniques and sample preparation · If core, whether cut or sawn and whether quarter, half or all core · No sampling has been executed in the tenements
taken.
· If non-core, whether riffled, tube sampled, rotary split, etc and
whether sampled wet or dry.
· For all sample types, the nature, quality and appropriateness of the
sample preparation technique.
· Quality control procedures adopted for all sub-sampling stages to
maximise representivity of samples.
· Measures taken to ensure that the sampling is representative of the
in situ material collected, including for instance results for field
duplicate/second-half sampling.
· Whether sample sizes are appropriate to the grain size of the
material being sampled.
Quality of assay data and laboratory tests · The nature, quality and appropriateness of the assaying and · No sampling has been executed in the tenements
laboratory procedures used and whether the technique is considered partial or
total. · For the TEM Geophysical survey a Zonge Engineering and Research
Organization, USA equipment was used, composed by a multipurpose digital
· For geophysical tools, spectrometers, handheld XRF instruments, etc, receiver model GDP-32 and a transmitter TEM model ZT-30, with batteries as
the parameters used in determining the analysis including instrument make and power source.
model, reading times, calibrations factors applied and their derivation, etc.
· For the Magneto Telluric geophysical survey a Zonge Engineering
· Nature of quality control procedures adopted (eg standards, blanks, and Research Organization, USA equipment was used, composed by a eight channel
duplicates, external laboratory checks) and whether acceptable levels of receptor model GDP-32 II, a magnetic sensor model MT ANT/4 and a second
accuracy (ie lack of bias) and precision have been established. magnetic sensor model MT ANT/6.
· Stations coordinates are been captured with non-differential hand
held GPS
Verification of sampling and assaying · The verification of significant intersections by either independent · No sampling has been executed in the tenements
or alternative company personnel.
· The use of twinned holes.
· Documentation of primary data, data entry procedures, data
verification, data storage (physical and electronic) protocols.
· Discuss any adjustment to assay data.
Location of data points · Accuracy and quality of surveys used to locate drill holes (collar · No drilling or sampling has been executed in the tenements
and down-hole surveys), trenches, mine workings and other locations used in
Mineral Resource estimation. · For the TEM geophysical survey 20 stations with a 1 km to 1.5 km
separation are planned as complement of the Magneto Telluric survey. This work
· Specification of the grid system used. is actually ongoing on the south-west and the eastern tenements near the Peine
locality
· Quality and adequacy of topographic control.
· For the Magneto Telluric geophysical survey, 131 stations with a 200
m separation are planned with the purpose to reach 800 m depth. This work is
actually ongoing on the south-west and the eastern tenements near the Peine
locality
· Stations coordinates are been captured with non-differential hand
held GPS
· The coordinate system is UTM, Datum WGS84 Zone 19K
Data spacing and distribution · Data spacing for reporting of Exploration Results. · No sampling has been executed in the tenements
· Whether the data spacing and distribution is sufficient to establish
the degree of geological and grade continuity appropriate for the Mineral
Resource and Ore Reserve estimation procedure(s) and classifications applied.
· Whether sample compositing has been applied.
Orientation of data in relation to geological structure · Whether the orientation of sampling achieves unbiased sampling of · No drilling or sampling has been executed in the tenements
possible structures and the extent to which this is known, considering the
deposit type.
· If the relationship between the drilling orientation and the
orientation of key mineralised structures is considered to have introduced a
sampling bias, this should be assessed and reported if material.
Sample security · The measures taken to ensure sample security. · No sampling has been executed in the tenements
Audits or reviews · The results of any audits or reviews of sampling techniques and data. · No sampling has been executed in the tenements
Section 2 Reporting of Exploration Results
(Criteria listed in the preceding section also apply to this section.)
Criteria JORC Code explanation Commentary
Mineral tenement and land tenure status · Type, reference name/number, location and ownership including · CleanTech Lithium holds in Salar de Atacama 26,600 hectares of
agreements or material issues with third parties such as joint ventures, Exploration Mining applications in favour of CLS Chile SpA.
partnerships, overriding royalties, native title interests, historical sites,
wilderness or national park and environmental settings. · All concession acquisition costs and taxes have been fully paid and
that there are no claims or liens against them
· The security of the tenure held at the time of reporting along with
any known impediments to obtaining a licence to operate in the area. · There are no known impediments to obtain the licence to operate in
the area
· The Competent Person relies in the Mining Expert Surveyor Mr, Juan
Bedmar.
Exploration done by other parties · Acknowledgment and appraisal of exploration by other parties. · Extensive Lithium exploration and exploitation activities has been
executed, mainly by Sociedad Química y Minera Chile S.A. (SQM) and Albemarle
Geology · Deposit type, geological setting and style of mineralisation. · CLS´s tenements in Salar de Atacama corresponds to marginal facies
of a Mature Halite Salar (Huston et. al., 2011)
Drill hole Information · A summary of all information material to the understanding of the · No drilling or has been executed in the tenements
exploration results including a tabulation of the following information for
all Material drill holes:
o easting and northing of the drill hole collar
o elevation or RL (Reduced Level - elevation above sea level in metres) of the
drill hole collar
o dip and azimuth of the hole
o down hole length and interception depth
o hole length.
· If the exclusion of this information is justified on the basis that
the information is not Material and this exclusion does not detract from the
understanding of the report, the Competent Person should clearly explain why
this is the case.
Data aggregation methods · In reporting Exploration Results, weighting averaging techniques, · Not applied at this exploration level
maximum and/or minimum grade truncations (eg cutting of high grades) and
cut-off grades are usually Material and should be stated.
· Where aggregate intercepts incorporate short lengths of high grade
results and longer lengths of low grade results, the procedure used for such
aggregation should be stated and some typical examples of such aggregations
should be shown in detail.
· The assumptions used for any reporting of metal equivalent values
should be clearly stated.
Relationship between mineralisation widths and intercept lengths · These relationships are particularly important in the reporting of · No drilling or sampling has been executed in the tenements
Exploration Results.
· If the geometry of the mineralisation with respect to the drill hole
angle is known, its nature should be reported.
· If it is not known and only the down hole lengths are reported, there
should be a clear statement to this effect (eg 'down hole length, true width
not known').
Diagrams · Appropriate maps and sections (with scales) and tabulations of · Addressed in the report
intercepts should be included for any significant discovery being reported
These should include, but not be limited to a plan view of drill hole collar
locations and appropriate sectional views.
Balanced reporting · Where comprehensive reporting of all Exploration Results is not · All results have been included.
practicable, representative reporting of both low and high grades and/or
widths should be practiced to avoid misleading reporting of Exploration
Results.
Other substantive exploration data Other exploration data, if meaningful and material, should be reported · None
including (but not limited to): geological observations; geophysical survey
results; geochemical survey results; bulk samples - size and method of
treatment; metallurgical test results; bulk density, groundwater, geotechnical
and rock characteristics; potential deleterious or contaminating substances.
Further work · The nature and scale of planned further work (eg tests for lateral · Complete the TEM and Magneto Telluric geophysical survey in the
extensions or depth extensions or large-scale step-out drilling). tenements. Depending on the results consider to drill exploration drillholes.
· Diagrams clearly highlighting the areas of possible extensions,
including the main geological interpretations and future drilling areas,
provided this information is not commercially sensitive.
Section 3 Estimation and Reporting of Mineral Resources
(Criteria listed in section 1, and where relevant in section 2, also apply to
this section.)
Criteria JORC Code explanation Commentary
Database integrity · Measures taken to ensure that data has not been corrupted by, for · No drilling or sampling has been executed in the tenements
example, transcription or keying errors, between its initial collection and
its use for Mineral Resource estimation purposes.
· Data validation procedures used.
Site visits · Comment on any site visits undertaken by the Competent Person and the · No visits have been done recently by the Competent Person under
outcome of those visits. CTL´s consultancy
· If no site visits have been undertaken indicate why this is the case. · The Competent Person has visited and knows very well the area under
consulting for other parties
Geological interpretation · Confidence in (or conversely, the uncertainty of) the geological · No geological interpretation further the general mineralization type
interpretation of the mineral deposit. classification has been done in the tenements
· Nature of the data used and of any assumptions made.
· The effect, if any, of alternative interpretations on Mineral
Resource estimation.
· The use of geology in guiding and controlling Mineral Resource
estimation.
· The factors affecting continuity both of grade and geology.
Dimensions · The extent and variability of the Mineral Resource expressed as · Not applied for Exploration Results
length (along strike or otherwise), plan width, and depth below surface to the
upper and lower limits of the Mineral Resource.
Estimation and modelling techniques
· The nature and appropriateness of the estimation technique(s) applied · Not applied for Exploration Results
and key assumptions, including treatment of extreme grade values, domaining,
interpolation parameters and maximum distance of extrapolation from data
points. If a computer assisted estimation method was chosen include a
description of computer software and parameters used.
· The availability of check estimates, previous estimates and/or mine
production records and whether the Mineral Resource estimate takes appropriate
account of such data.
· The assumptions made regarding recovery of by-products.
· Estimation of deleterious elements or other non-grade variables of
economic significance (eg sulphur for acid mine drainage characterisation).
· In the case of block model interpolation, the block size in relation
to the average sample spacing and the search employed.
· Any assumptions behind modelling of selective mining units.
· Any assumptions about correlation between variables.
· Description of how the geological interpretation was used to control
the resource estimates.
· Discussion of basis for using or not using grade cutting or capping.
· The process of validation, the checking process used, the comparison
of model data to drill hole data, and use of reconciliation data if available.
Moisture · Whether the tonnages are estimated on a dry basis or with natural · Not applicable for brine resources
moisture, and the method of determination of the moisture content.
Cut-off parameters · The basis of the adopted cut-off grade(s) or quality parameters · No drilling or sampling has been executed in the tenements
applied.
Mining factors or assumptions · Assumptions made regarding possible mining methods, minimum mining · Not applied for Exploration Results
dimensions and internal (or, if applicable, external) mining dilution. It is
always necessary as part of the process of determining reasonable prospects
for eventual economic extraction to consider potential mining methods, but the
assumptions made regarding mining methods and parameters when estimating
Mineral Resources may not always be rigorous. Where this is the case, this
should be reported with an explanation of the basis of the mining assumptions
made.
Metallurgical factors or assumptions · The basis for assumptions or predictions regarding metallurgical · Not applied for Exploration Results
amenability. It is always necessary as part of the process of determining
reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction to consider potential
metallurgical methods, but the assumptions regarding metallurgical treatment
processes and parameters made when reporting Mineral Resources may not always
be rigorous. Where this is the case, this should be reported with an
explanation of the basis of the metallurgical assumptions made.
Environmen-tal factors or assumptions · Assumptions made regarding possible waste and process residue · The main environmental impacts expected is the main plant
disposal options. It is always necessary as part of the process of determining installations, the surface disturbance associated with production wells and
reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction to consider the brine mixing ponds. These impacts are not expected to prevent project
potential environmental impacts of the mining and processing operation. While development
at this stage the determination of potential environmental impacts,
particularly for a greenfields project, may not always be well advanced, the
status of early consideration of these potential environmental impacts should
be reported. Where these aspects have not been considered this should be
reported with an explanation of the environmental assumptions made.
Bulk density · Whether assumed or determined. If assumed, the basis for the
assumptions. If determined, the method used, whether wet or dry, the frequency
of the measurements, the nature, size and representativeness of the samples. · Not applied for Exploration Results.
· The bulk density for bulk material must have been measured by methods
that adequately account for void spaces (vugs, porosity, etc), moisture and
differences between rock and alteration zones within the deposit.
· Discuss assumptions for bulk density estimates used in the evaluation
process of the different materials.
Classification · The basis for the classification of the Mineral Resources into · Not applied for Exploration Results
varying confidence categories.
· Whether appropriate account has been taken of all relevant factors
(ie relative confidence in tonnage/grade estimations, reliability of input
data, confidence in continuity of geology and metal values, quality, quantity
and distribution of the data).
· Whether the result appropriately reflects the Competent Person's view
of the deposit.
Audits or reviews · The results of any audits or reviews of Mineral Resource estimates. · No audits or reviews has been taken
Discussion of relative accuracy/ confidence · Where appropriate a statement of the relative accuracy and confidence · Not applied for Exploration Results
level in the Mineral Resource estimate using an approach or procedure deemed
appropriate by the Competent Person. For example, the application of
statistical or geostatistical procedures to quantify the relative accuracy of
the resource within stated confidence limits, or, if such an approach is not
deemed appropriate, a qualitative discussion of the factors that could affect
the relative accuracy and confidence of the estimate.
· The statement should specify whether it relates to global or local
estimates, and, if local, state the relevant tonnages, which should be
relevant to technical and economic evaluation. Documentation should include
assumptions made and the procedures used.
· These statements of relative accuracy and confidence of the estimate
should be compared with production data, where available.
For further information contact:
CleanTech Lithium PLC
Aldo Boitano/Gordon Stein Jersey office: +44 (0) 1534 668 321
Chile office: +562-32239222
Or via Celicourt
Celicourt Communications +44 (0) 20 7770 6424
Felicity Winkles/Philip Dennis/Ali AlQahtani cleantech@celicourt.uk
Dr. Reuter Investor Relations +49 69 1532 5857
Dr. Eva Reuter
Porter Novelli - Chile +569 95348744
Ernesto Escobar Ernesto@publicoporternovelli.cl
Harbor Access - North America +1 475 477 9401
Jonathan Paterson/Lisa Micali
Beaumont Cornish Limited +44 (0) 207 628 3396
(Nominated Adviser)
Roland Cornish/Asia Szusciak
Fox-Davies Capital Limited +44 20 3884 8450
(Joint Broker)
Daniel Fox-Davies daniel@fox-davies.com (mailto:daniel@fox-davies.com)
Canaccord Genuity Limited +44 (0) 207 523 4680
(Joint Broker)
James Asensio
Gordon Hamilton
Notes
About CleanTech Lithium
CleanTech Lithium (AIM:CTL, Frankfurt:T2N, OTCQX:CTLHF) is an exploration and
development company advancing sustainable lithium projects in Chile for the
clean energy transition. Committed to net-zero, CleanTech Lithium's mission is
to produce material quantities of battery grade using sustainable Direct
Lithium Extraction technology, powered by renewable energy, the Company plan
to be the leading supplier of 'green' lithium to the EV and battery
manufacturing market.
CleanTech Lithium has four lithium projects - Laguna Verde, Francisco Basin,
Llamara and Salar de Atacama - located in the lithium triangle, the world's
centre for battery grade lithium production. The two major projects: Laguna
Verde and Francisco Basin are situated within basins controlled by the
Company, which affords significant potential development and operational
advantages. All four projects have direct access to existing infrastructure
and renewable power.
CleanTech Lithium is committed to using renewable power for processing and
reducing the environmental impact of its lithium production by utilising
Direct Lithium Extraction. Direct Lithium Extraction is a transformative
technology which removes lithium from brine, with higher recoveries and
purities. The method offers short development lead times, low upfront capex,
with no extensive site construction and no evaporation pond development so
there is no water depletion from the aquifer. www.ctlithium.com
(http://www.ctlithium.com)
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