Sovereign Metals Limited: MALINGUNDE: Die weltweit größte gemeldete in Saprolith gelagerte Graphitressource

(firmenpresse) -
MALINGUNDE: Die weltweit größte gemeldete in Saprolith gelagerte Graphitressource

Sovereign Metals Limited (das Unternehmen oder Sovereign) freut sich, die erste JORC-konforme Mineralressourcenschätzung für das Projekt Malingunde in Malawi bekannt zu geben.

Die Mineralressourcenschätzung bestätigt die globale Bedeutung der Graphitlagerstätte Malingunde und bietet die Grundlage für einen natürlichen Flockengraphit-Abbaubetrieb mit potenziell geringem Investitions- und sehr geringem Betriebsaufwand, der sich auf den weichen in Saprolith (Tonerde) gelagerten Anteil der Lagerstätte konzentriert.

Saprolith-Mineralressourcenschätzung (angezeigt + abgeleitet):
28,8 Mio t mit 7,1 % TGC (Cutoff-Wert 4,0 % TGC)

einschließlich hochgradiger Anteil:
8,9 Mio. t mit 9,9 % TGC (Cutoff-Wert 7,5 % TGC)


Wichtigste Ergebnisse:

- Malingunde als weltweit größte gemeldete in weichen Saprolith gelagerte Graphitressource1 bestätigt.

- Hochgradiger Anteil im Umfang von 8,9 Mio. t mit 9,9 % TGC (Total Carbon Content; Gesamtkohlenstoffgehalt) wird im Mittelpunkt der anstehenden Rahmenbewertung stehen.

- 80% der gesamten Saprolithressource und 80 % des hochgradigen Anteils als angezeigte Mineralressourcen eingestuft.

- Das gesamte weiche Saprolithmaterial befindet sich innerhalb eines Bereichs von 30 Metern von der Oberfläche und kann durch einfache Grabungen mit sehr geringem Erz-Abraum-Verhältnis abgebaut werden, was deutlich geringere Abbaukosten während der Lebensdauer der Mine (LOM) bedeuten sollte.

- Das Saprolithmaterial muss nicht zerkleinert oder zermahlen werden, woraus sich im Vergleich zu Festgesteinslagerstätte wesentlich niedrigere Verarbeitungskosten ergeben.

- Die weitläufige, 3.788 km2 große Liegenschaft enthält zahlreiche andere Saprolith-Zielgebiete enthält, die zwar abgegrenzt, jedoch noch nicht mittels Bohrungen untersucht wurden, was auf zusätzliches und beträchtliches Explorationspotenzial hinweist.

Dr. Julian Stephens, Managing Director von Sovereign, sagte dazu: Die erste Mineralressourcenschätzung hat unsere Erwartungen bei weitem übertroffen und bestätigt, dass Malingunde eine erstklassige Graphitlagerstätte ist. Der separate hochgradige Anteil der Ressource wird im Mittelpunkt der bevorstehenden Rahmenbewertung des Unternehmens stehen. Angesichts dieser herausragenden Ressourcenbasis kann das Unternehmen nun die Durchführung dieser Rahmenbewertung in Angriff nehmen und dabei die inhärenten Vorteile des Projekts wie etwa sein Potenziel für einen Betrieb mit sehr geringem Betriebs- und niedrigem Investitionsaufwand und Spitzenmargen nutzen.

ANFRAGEN: --
Dr. Julian Stephens - Managing Director-+618 9322 6322

Einführung

In Saprolith gelagerte Graphitlagerstätten sind dank ihres im Vergleich zu in Festgestein gelagerten Graphitproduktionsstätten geringeren Investitionsaufwands und niedrigeren Betriebskosten gefragt.

Sovereign erkundete das Gebiet Malingunde im Jahr 2015 und 2016 und entdeckte dabei die weltweit größte gemeldete in Saprolith gelagerte Graphitressource.

Die Lagerstätte Maligunde weist folgende Vorteile auf:

- Ein hochgradiger Kern mit etwa 10 % TGC, der im Mittelpunkt der bevorstehenden Rahmenbewertung stehen wird;

- Sehr weiches, durch einfache Grabungen abbaubares Material für die gesamte Lebensdauer der Mine mit einem sehr geringen Erz-Abraum-Verhältnis, woraus sich sehr geringe Abbaukosten ergeben;

- Primäre Zerkleinerung und Mahlung nicht notwendig, was deutliche Einsparungen beim Investitionsbedarf und den Betriebskosten bedeutet;

- Nähe zur Hauptstadt Malawis bedeutet Zugang zu bestehender Infrastruktur: Eisenbahn, Wasser, Strom & Arbeitskräfte;

- Mit einem Spitzenkonzentrat (Best in Class) in puncto Flockengröße und Gehalt kann ein Spitzenpreis erzielt werden.

Die obengenannten Vorteile zeigen insgesamt, dass Malingunde ein potenziell erstklassiges Projekt mit geringem Investitionsbedarf, niedrigen Betriebskosten und hohen Einnahmen pro Tonne Konzentrat ist, was voraussichtlich einem margenstarken Betrieb entspricht.

Mineralressourcenschätzung

Die Mineralressourcenschätzung für Malingunde wurde von CSA Global angefertigt und wird gemäß JORC Code (Ausgabe 2012) gemeldet.

Bei Anwendung eines geringeren Cutoff-Werts von 4 % TGC umfasst die Mineralressourcenschätzung (angezeigt + abgeleitet):

- 28,8 Mio. Tonnen Saprolith mit 7,1 % TGC;

- 17,0 Mio. Tonnen verwittertes Grundgestein mit 7,0 % TGC;

- 19,3 Mio. Tonnen frisches Gestein mit 7,0 % TGC.

Die Mineralressource beinhaltet insgesamt 65,1 Millionen Tonnen mit 7,1 % TGC (Saprolith, verwittertes Grundgestein und frisches Gestein; 80 % angezeigt + 20 % abgeleitet).

Bei Anwendung eines höheren Cutoff-Werts von 7,5% TGC umfasst der Saprolith-Anteil der Ressource 8,9 Millionen Tonnen mit 9,9 % TGC (ebenfalls 80 % angezeigt + 20 % abgeleitet).

Der Saprolith-Anteil der Mineralressource befindet sich vollständig innerhalb eines Bereichs von 30 Metern von der natürlichen Erdoberfläche. Das Unternehmen beabsichtigt, den hochgradigen Saprolith-Anteil der Mineralressourcen in den Mittelpunkt der bevorstehenden Rahmenbewertung zu stellen. Die 8,9 Millionen Tonnen hochgradiges Material sollten den Erwartungen zufolge Einsatzmaterial für einen im Zuge der Studie zu bewertenden Minenbetrieb mit einer beachtlichen Lebensdauer liefern.

Der zuständige Sachverständige und das Unternehmen vertreten die Ansicht, dass angemessene Aussichten auf die eventuelle wirtschaftliche Förderung der Mineralressource bestehen. Berücksichtigt wurden unter anderem die relative Nähe der Mineralisierung zur Oberfläche, woraus sich eine Eignung für den Tagebau ergibt, und die bestehende Infrastruktur unweit des Projekts einschließlich Eisenbahn, Strom, Arbeitskräfte und Wasser. Die bisherigen metallurgischen Testarbeiten zur Flockengrößenverteilung und Reinheit sprechen nach Einschätzung des Sachverständigen und des Unternehmens für die Marktfähigkeit eines Konzentrats.

http://www.irw-press.at/prcom/images/messages/2017/39475/170418 Malingunde JORC Resource April 2017_Final_DEprcom.001.png

Tabelle 1. Erste JORC-konforme Mineralressourcenschätzung für Malingunde unter Anwendung von Cutoff-Werten von 4,0 % und 7,5 % TGC
http://www.irw-press.at/prcom/images/messages/2017/39475/170418 Malingunde JORC Resource April 2017_Final_DEprcom.002.png

Abbildung 1. Dreidimensionale Schrägansicht des Blockmodells für die Malingunde-Mineralressourcenschätzung
http://www.irw-press.at/prcom/images/messages/2017/39475/170418 Malingunde JORC Resource April 2017_Final_DEprcom.003.png

Abbildung 2. Querschnitt bei 8,437,000mN, der die bei der Mineralressourcenschätzung verwendeten Blöcke und die TGC-Gehaltsbereiche anzeigt

Die vollständige Pressemeldung finden Sie hier: http://www.asx.com.au/asxpdf/20170418/pdf/43hkny1xxq8mq0.pdf

Die Ausgangssprache (in der Regel Englisch), in der der Originaltext veröffentlicht wird, ist die offizielle, autorisierte und rechtsgültige Version. Diese Übersetzung wird zur besseren Verständigung mitgeliefert. Die deutschsprachige Fassung kann gekürzt oder zusammengefasst sein. Es wird keine Verantwortung oder Haftung: für den Inhalt, für die Richtigkeit, der Angemessenheit oder der Genauigkeit dieser Übersetzung übernommen. Aus Sicht des Übersetzers stellt die Meldung keine Kauf- oder Verkaufsempfehlung dar! Bitte beachten Sie die englische Originalmeldung auf www.sedar.com , www.sec.gov , www.asx.com.au/ oder auf der Firmenwebsite!

Summary of Resource Estimate and Reporting Criteria

The following is a summary of the pertinent information used in the Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) with full details provided in Table 1 included as Appendix A.

Geology and Geological Interpretation

The Malingunde area is underlain by Neo-Proterozoic to Cambrian semi-pelitic paragneisses of the Mchinji Group. Lithologies include kyanite, biotite, garnet, pyrrhotite and graphite bearing gneisses and schists.

Malingunde flake graphite deposit strikes north-west, dipping between 25° and 50 degrees° to the north- east. It is currently modelled as three zones of mineralisation, with a depth extent of 50 m, a strike length of 4,500 m and a plan width varying between 50 and 230 m.

Malingunde occurs in a topographically flat area west of Malawis capital known as the Lilongwe Plain. Here, a deep tropical weathering profile is preserved. A typical profile from top to base is generally ferruginous pedolith (FERP, 0-4m), mottled zone (MOTT, 4-7m), pallid saprolite (PSAP, 7-9m), saprolite (SAPL, 9-25m), saprock (SAPR, 25-35m) and fresh rock (FRESH >35m). For the purposes of the MRE, all units from saprolite and above are included under the heading saprolite. This is justified because all are soft and free-dig, and all have consistent and similar metallurgical characteristics.

Within the Malingunde deposit itself, high-grade graphite gneisses are interlayered and separated by biotite and locally kyanite bearing gneisses. Two discrete, internal high grade graphite zones exist and appear to be slightly oblique to the overall trend of the mineralisation (Figure 1).

Further high-grade saprolite-hosted graphite mineralisation has been discovered in hand auger drilling along strike over 1km to the south-east of the resource area and is yet to be followed up. Regionally, the Company controls a large, prospective ground package totalling 3,788km2 within which six additional saprolite-hosted prospects have been located.

Drilling and Sampling Techniques

The MRE is based upon data obtained from 13 diamond core (DD) drill holes (432.39 m), 170 aircore (AC) holes (3,352 m) and 212 hand auger (HA) holes (1,499 m) drilled across the three deposits. Five (5) pairs of AC/DD and eight (8) pairs of AC/HA twinned holes are included in the drilling totals.

HA holes are located on east-west transects across the entire strike of the modelled deposit spaced nominally at 200 m x 20 m with infill spaced at 10 m along section. AC holes were generally drilled at 200 m x 20 m along existing HA transects with infill of 100 m x 20 m over the northern and southern portions of the deposit. DD holes were drilled on existing HA transects spaced between 200 m and 400 m north-south along the strike extent of the deposit. All HA holes were drilled vertically whilst the majority of the AC and DD holes were angled, designed to intersect broadly orthogonal to the shallow-moderate east dipping mineralisation.

The majority of HA and all AC/DD drill hole collars were surveyed using a differential global positioning system (DGPS) to centimetre accuracy. All DD holes were down-hole surveyed using a Reflex Ez-Trak multi-shot survey tool at 30m intervals down hole. Owing to their shallow depths (maximum 12 m), HA holes were not downhole surveyed. AC holes were not routinely down-hole surveyed, however 9 holes (5%) were surveyed to verify the amount of downhole deviation.

HA and AC drill samples were geologically logged, recording relevant data to a set template at 1m intervals. DD core was geologically logged based on geological intervals. DD core was also geotechnically logged and digitally photographed.

DD core (PQ3) was quarter cut and sampled according to geological intervals. HA samples were composited on geological intervals (2-3m) in the field, and submitted for Total Graphitic Carbon (TGC) analysis. AC samples were sampled at 1-metre in the SOIL, FERP, MOTT weathering zones and composited nominally at 2-metres in the PSAP, SAPL, SAPR, FRESH weathering zones. Field quality assurance procedures were employed, including the use of analytical standards, coarse blanks and duplicates.

Sample Analysis Method

Samples were shipped to Intertek sample preparation laboratory in Johannesburg or Perth. Upon receipt of the sample, the laboratory prepared ~100g pulp samples for shipment (in the case of Johannesburg) to Intertek Perth where they were analysed. A 0.2g charge is analysed for TGC using an Eltra carbon analyser resistance furnace.

Classification Criteria

Classification of the MRE was carried out taking into account the geological understanding of the deposit, quality of the samples, bulk density data and drill hole spacing, supported by metallurgical test results that indicate general product marketability.

The MRE is classified as a combination of Indicated and Inferred, with geological evidence sufficient to assume geological and grade continuity in the Indicated volumes. All available data was assessed and the Competent Persons relative confidence in the data was used to assist in the classification of the Mineral Resource.

Resource Estimation Methodology

TGC wireframe interpretations were based upon a lower cut-off of 4% TGC, which is equivalent to the graphitic gneiss domain boundary, from geological logging of HA/AC/DD drill holes.

The Mineral Resource block model consists of 3 zones of TGC mineralisation, with 1 major zone and 2 minor zones, with respect to strike extent. Mineralisation domains were encapsulated by means of 3D wireframed envelopes. Domains were extrapolated along strike or down plunge to half a section spacing. Internal waste units were modelled within the graphitic gneiss mineralisation envelopes to define barren domains.

No top cutting was applied to constrain extreme grade values because the TGC grade distribution does not warrant their use.

All drill hole assay samples were composited to 2 m intervals. All assayed HA/AC/DD drill hole intervals were utilised in the grade interpolation.

Grade estimation was by ordinary kriging (OK). A minimum of 8 and maximum of 16 composited samples were used in any one block estimate for all domains. A maximum of 5 composited samples per drill hole were used in any one block estimate. The PSAP, SAPL, SAPR and the top portion of the FRESH domain (pseudo transitional material) were combined into one estimation domain. The FERP and MOTT weathering zones were estimated as a separate single domain.

The grade model was validated by 1) creating slices of the model and comparing to drill hole samples on the same slice; 2) swath plots comparing average block grades with average sample grades on nominated easting, northing and RL slices; 3) mean grades per domain for estimated blocks and flagged drill hole samples; and 4) cross sections with block model and drill hole data colour coded in like manner.

Cut-off Grades
The MRE has been reported using lower cut-off grade of 4.0% and 7.5% TGC, which is consistent with the grade used to report previous MREs for this style of mineralisation.

Mining and Metallurgical Methods and Parameters

No selective mining units were assumed in this resource model. No depletion of the Mineral Resource due to mining activity was required due to no mining having occurred historically.


Sovereign have announced several sets of metallurgical results to the ASX (7th September 2016; 23rd November 2016; 27th February 2017 and 20th March 2017), relating to flake size distribution and purity of graphite concentrate. Metallurgical testwork is ongoing.

Sovereign engaged SGS Canada to conduct an initial bench scale laboratory flotation testwork program on drill samples obtained from the Malingunde flake graphite deposit. The main objective was to investigate the metallurgical response of shallow saprolitic mineralization (PSAP+SAPL) and the testwork was performed on two master composites samples produced from fifteen drill holes of located in the northern and central part of the deposit. The majority of the testwork was performed using two master composite samples described as north composite and southern composite from shallow auger drill samples. The testwork was largely based on the flowsheet previously developed for weathered material from Sovereigns Duwi and graphite deposit, located 40 km to the north-east.

In addition two separate master composites of the mottled zone (MOTT) using intervals from the same HA drill holes were produced and tested using the same flowsheet conditions as the saprolite master composites.

A subsequent variability tetwork program was undertaken on the PQ3 diamond drill core to evaluate the metallurgical response of the FERP, PSAP+SAPL (upper saprolite), SAPL (lower saprolite) and SAPR weathering domains.

The flotation testwork on auger and diamond drill core samples demonstrated that generally between about 50% and 80% of the liberated flakes were larger than 150 µm, and that final overall concentrate grades were in the range of 97% to 99% Carbon.

The flake size distribution and purity are considered to be favourable for product marketability.

Property testing of final concentrates produced from the metallurgical tests were undertaken by a specialty laboratory in Germany indicate that the potential products from Malingunde should be suitable for expandable graphite markets.

Competent Person Statement

The information that relates to Mineral Resources is based on, and fairly represents, information compiled by Mr David Williams, a Competent Person, who is a Member of The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. Mr Williams is employed by CSA Global Pty Ltd, an independent consulting company. Mr Williams has sufficient experience, which is relevant to the style of mineralisation and type of deposit under consideration, and to the activity he is undertaking, 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 Williams consents to the inclusion of the matters based on his information in the form and context in which it appears.

The information that relates to Exploration Results is extracted from announcements on 29 August 2016, 12 October 2016, 26 November 2016, 18 January 2017, 21 February 2017 and 15 March 2017. These announcements are available to view on www.sovereignmetals.com.au. The information in the original announcements that related to Exploration Results were based on, and fairly represents, information compiled by Dr Julian Stephens, a Competent Person who is a member of the Australasian Institute of Geoscientists (AIG). Dr Stephens is the Managing Director of Sovereign Metals Limited and a holder of shares, options and performance rights in Sovereign Metals Limited. Dr Stephens has sufficient experience that is relevant to the style of mineralisation 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'. The Company confirms that it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information included in the original market announcements. The Company confirms that the form and context in which the Competent Persons findings are presented have not been materially modified from the original market announcements.


Forward Looking Statement

This release may include forward-looking statements, which may be identified by words such as "expects", "anticipates", "believes", "projects", "plans", and similar expressions. These forward-looking statements are based on Sovereigns expectations and beliefs concerning future events. Forward looking statements are necessarily subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside the control of Sovereign, which could cause actual results to differ materially from such statements. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be correct. Sovereign makes no undertaking to subsequently update or revise the forward-looking statements made in this release, to reflect the circumstances or events after the date of that release.

Footnote 1

The Malingunde Mineral Resource is understood by the Company to be the largest known saprolite-hosted flake graphite deposit in the world that has been reported under recognised western Mineral Resource reporting codes (i.e. JORC, NI 43-101, SAMREC).

Appendix 1: JORC Code, 2012 Edition - Table 1

Section 1 Sampling Techniques and Data
Criter JORC Code Commentary
ia explanation

SampliNature and Hand Auger (HA), Air-core (AC) and
ng quality of Diamond core (DD) drilling form the
Techn sampling (e.g. basis of the Mineral Resource
iques cut channels, Estimate (MRE) and are described
random chips, below:
or specific
specialised HA drilling was employed to obtain
industry samples vertically
standard
measurement from surface at nominal 1-metre depth
tools intervals, with
appropriate to
the minerals samples composited on geologically
under determined intervals. Composite
investigation, samples were riffle split on
such as down site.

hole gamma HA drilling was completed as a number
sondes, or of phases during 2015 and 2016. A
handheld XRF total of
instruments,
etc.). These 212 HA holes (1,499 m) were used in
examples should the
not be taken as MRE
limiting the .
broad meaning AC drilling (angled and vertical) was
of employed to obtain bulk drill
sampling. cuttings at nominal 1-metre depth
(downhole) intervals from surface.
All 1-metre samples were collected in
plastic bags directly beneath the
sample cyclone underflow. The entire
individual 1-metre sample was
manually split at the drill site
using conventional riffle splitters.

A total of 170 AC holes (3,352 m)
completed during 2016 were used in
the
MRE
.
DD drilling (angled and vertical) was
designed to obtain representative
large diameter (PQ3) core for
geological, geotechnical and
metallurgical

testwork purposes. Subsequent to
completion of all geological and
geotechnical logging and sampling
(whole core samples removed
laboratory bulk density and strength
testing) drill core was either
manually hand split or sawn using a
circular saw and sampled as ¼ PQ3
core. Upon completion of laboratory
bulk density and strength testing of
the whole core intervals the entire
core was submitted to the
laboratory.
A total of 13 DD holes (432.39 m)
completed during 2016 were used in
the
MRE
.
All HA/AC/DD assay sample splits were
submitted to either Intertek
Johannesburg or Intertek Perth for
assay sample preparation. Total
Graphitic Carbon (TGC) analysis of
all assay pulps samples was performed
by Intertek
Perth.

Include All HA/AC/DD drilling and sampling
reference to activities were supervised by a
measures taken suitably qualified Company geologist
to ensure who was present on site during the
sample drilling of holes. All

representivity anHA and AC holes were geologically
d the logged at a nominal 1-metre interval
appropriate by the geologist at the drill site.
calibration of
any measurement DD holes were geologically logged on a
tools or geological intervals basis.
systems Geotechnical logging was completed
used. for each core run interval. All mass
reduction (field and laboratory
splitting) of samples were performed
within

Gys Sampling Nomogram limits relevant
to this style of mineralisation.
Field duplicate splits of HA/AC
samples and quarter DD core were
undertaken nominally every
20
th sample to assess sampling errors.
HA: The auger spiral and rods are
cleaned between each metre of
sampling to avoid
contamination.

AC: The sampling cyclone was routinely
cleaned out between each drill

hole. Sample recovery was
quantitatively assessed throughout
the duration of the drilling program.

A program of field replicate splitting
of selected

(~5%) mineralised intervals was
completed at the conclusion of the
drill program to assess the sampling
repeatability

DD: core recovery was closely
monitored during drilling
particularly through the mineralised
zones. Standard industry drilling mud
mixtures were employed to improve
core recovery especially through the
softer upper clay rich

pedolith and saprolith horizons.
Aspects of the Flake graphite content is visually
determination estimated as volume % for each
of 1-metre HA/AC bulk drill samples and
mineralisation DD core logging interval during
that are geological logging by a Company
Material to the geologist.
Public Report.
In cases where A nominal lower cut-off of 4% TGC
industry assay has been applied to define
standard work zones of
has been done mineralisation
this would be .
relatively
simple (e.g.
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 (e.g.
submarine
nodules) may
warrant
disclosure of
detailed
information.

DrilliDrill type (e.g. HA: drilling was performed manually by
ng core, reverse Sovereign
Techn circulation, employees
iques openhole using a conventional hand auger employ
hammer, rotary ing a combination of
air blast,
auger, Bangka, 62mm and 50mm diameter spiral auger
sonic, etc.) flight
and details and
(e.g. core 1-metre long steel rods. Each 1m of
diameter, drill advance
triple or
standard tube, is withdrawn and the contents of the
depth of auger flight removed. An additional
diamond tails, 1-metre steel
facesampling
bit or other rods is attached and the open hole is
type, whether re-entered to drill the next metre.
core is This is repeated until the drill
oriented and if holes is terminated or reaches a
so, by what maximum depth of 12m.
method,
etc.). The auger spiral and rods are cleaned
between each metre of sampling to
avoid
contamination.

AC: conventional blade bit aircore dril
ling was employed to obtain all drill
cuttings from surface. Drilling was
completed using a P900 truck mounted
rig with and separate truck mounted

air compressor. Drilling was completed
using standard 3-inch or 4-inch
diameter/3m length drill rods
equipped with inner tubes. Drilling
was performed with standard face
discharge

aircore blade bits. The nominal drill h
ole
diameter for 3-inch and 4-inch holes
is 85mm and 114mm respectively. The
nominal inner tube inside diameter
for 3-inch and 4-inch holes is 37mm
and 45mm respectively.

Drilling of all 3-inch holes employed
a 2-stage compressor rated at
300CFM
:200PSI run continuously on high
stage. All 4-inch holes were drilled
employing a 2-stage compressor rated
at
900CFM
:350PSI with high-stage generally run
below about 15m downhole.


DD: conventional wireline PQ triple
tube
(PQ
3) diamond drilling (DD) was employed
to obtain all drill

core. Drilling was undertaken with an
Atlas Copco Christensen CT14 truck
mounted drilling rig. The nominal
core diameter is 83mm and the nominal
hole diameter is 122mm. Coring was
completed with

appropriate diamond impregnated
tungsten carbide drilling bits. Drill
runs were completed employing either
a

1.5m or 3.0m length PQ3 core barrel. Co
re from all drilling runs was
orientated using a Reflex ACTIII
Electronic Orientation device. The
orientation and marking of the bottom
of

hole (BOH) orientation line along the
core was completed whilst the core
was still within the drilling split.
Core was transferred from the
drilling split into PVC splits which
were then wrapped with plastic

layflat material, securely sealed and
placed into core
trays.

Drill Method of HA: sample recovery was monitored
Sampl recording and visually during removal of the sample
e assessing core from the auger
Recov and chip sample flights.
ery recoveries and
results AC: sample recovery was recorded for
assessed. all holes. The
1-
metre drill samples collected in
plastic bags from directly beneath
the cyclone underflow were
individually weighed and moisture
content (dry/damp/moist
/wet/saturated) recorded prior to
further splitting and sampling. The
outside diameter of the drill bit
cutting face was measured and
recorded by the driller prior to the
commencement of each drill hole. Each
1-metre sample interval was
separately geologically logged using
standard Company project specific
logging codes. Logging of weathering
and lithology along with drill

hole diameter, recovered sample
weight, moisture content and dry bulk
density measurements of PQ diamond
core allow the theoretical sample
recovery to be assessed. Analysis of
the calculated sample recoveries
indicate an average recovery of
greater than 75% for all mineralised
(>=4% TGC)
intervals.

DD: drilling core recovery was
recorded for each drill run by
measuring the total length whilst
still in the drilling splits prior to
being transferred into core
trays
. Downhole depths were validated
against

core blocks and drill plods during
each shift.

Holes MGDD0001, MGDD0004 and MGDD0005
were re-drilled due to core loss
within a number of mineralised
zones.
An overall core recovery of 92% was
achieved for all

sampled core.
Measures taken HA: drill holes were terminated where
to maximise they intersected
sample recovery
and ensure the upper (perched) water table (approx
representative ..
nature of the 7-8m)
samples.
AC: drill bit type (face discharge)
used were appropriate for the type of
formation to maximise amount of drill
cutting recovered. Drill bits were
replaced where excessive wearing

of the tungsten cutting teeth had
occurred.

Adequate CFM/PSI of compressed air was
used to maximise the drying of sample
prior to recovering up the drill
string. A
number
of the 2016 PQ diamond core holes
were twinned by

aircore holes to assess the representiv
ity
of AC drill samples. Where the
ingress of water in deeper sections
of holes resulted in wet samples
(usually at the

Saprolite/Saprock interface) the drill
hole was
terminated.

DD: core recovery was closely
monitored during drilling
particularly through the mineralised
zones. Standard industry drilling mud
mixtures were employed to improve
core recovery especially through the
softer upper clay rich material of
the

Pedolith and Saprolith zones. Other
measures such quantity of water,
amount of rotation and drill bit
types that are appropriate to soft
formation drilling were considered
and employed during drilling when
required. At the completion of each
drill run the steel splits containing
the core were pumped out of the
retrieved core tube. Core was then
carefully transferred from the drill
split into plastic sleeves
(
layflat) which were secured in rigid
PVC splits. The

layflat was securely bound and sealed
(to preserve moisture) with tape
prior to transferring PVC splits into
plastic core
trays.

Whether a Twin hole comparison of AC/HA and
relationship AC/DD drill hole
exists between
sample recovery TGC assay grades indicates that no
and grade and sample bias exists. There does not
whether sample appear to be any relationship between
bias may have sample recovery and the visual
occurred due to graphite
preferential content.
loss/gain of
fine/coarse
material.

LogginWhether core and HA/AC/DD: drill holes were geologically
g chip samples logged
have been by a suitably trained Company
geologically geologist using standard Company code
and system. All geological logging was
initially recorded using
geotechnically lo a
gged to a level standard A4 paper template and later
of detail to digitally entered into customised
support Company MS Excel spreadsheets
appropriate utilising functional validation
Mineral tools. Excel files are checked and
Resource loaded to MS Access by the Database
estimation Administrator. Upon loading into the
mining studies Access database further validation is
and performed.
metallurgical
studies. HA/AC: holes were geologically logged
nominally at 1-metre intervals.
Reference samples of each 1-metre
intervals were collected and stored
in plastic chip trays for future
reference.

DD: holes were logged on a geological
interval basis. In addition all holes
were

geotechnically logged by trained
Company geologists to ISRM standards.
DD holes MGDD0008-0013 were

geotechnecnically logged by a
consulting geotechnical engineer. All
drill

core was photographed prior to
sampling and images were digitally
catalogued.


This information is of a sufficient lev
el of detail to support appropriate
Mineral Resource
estimation
, preliminary mining studies and
metallurgical

testwork.
Whether logging Logging is both qualitative and quantit
is qualitative ative
or quantitative . Geological logging includes but is
in nature. Core not limited
(or costean, to
channel, etc.) lithological features, estimated
photography. graphite content

and flake characteristics. The logging
and reporting of visual graphite
percentages

(on a volumetric basis) is
semiquantitative. A reference to
previous logs and assays is used as a

guide. Geotechnical logging of DD core
is both qualitative and
quantitative.

The total length 100% of the HA/AC/DD drill hole sample
and percentage intervals
of the relevant have been geologically logged.
intersection
logged

Sub-saIf core, whether Quarter PQ3 DD core is manually split
mpling cut or sawn and and/or cut using a motorised diamond
techn whether blade core saw and sampled for
iques quarter, half laboratory
or all core analysis.
and taken.
sampl
e
prepa
ration


If non-core, HA: 1-metre samples are composited on
whether geological intervals and then riffle
riffled, tube split at 50:50 using a standard Jones
sampled, rotary riffle splitter. Wet samples are
split, etc. and first air dried and then manually
whether sampled broken up prior to compositing or
wet or splitting.
dry.

AC: Individual 1-metre drill samples we
re
manually split in entirety using
either a 3-tier (87.5:12.5) or single
tier (50:50) riffle splitter or a
combination thereof to facilitate
mass reduction of

the drill sample to produce an assay sp
lit
. Additional compositing of the assay
off-split was controlled by
geological logging. Mineralised (>=3%
visual TGC content) off-splits
obtained from the soil (SOIL),
ferruginous

pedolith (FERP) and mottled zone
(MOTT) weathering horizons were not
composited, whereas mineralised
splits of the underlying pallid

saprolite (PSAP), saprolite (SAPL)
and

saprock (SAPR) weathering units were
composited nominally at 2-metres.

Unmineralised (=<3% visual TGC)
1-metre splits were composited
nominally at 4-metres. All bulk
rejects splits of the original
1-metre intervals were

transported to a secure undercover
storage facility in
Lilongwe
.
All 1-metre wet samples were removed
from the drill site without splitting
and relocated to the Companys
premises in Lilongwe. The wet samples
were transferred into large metal
trays and sun dried. Samples were
subsequently manually broken up and
thoroughly homogenised prior to
splitting 50:50 with a single tier
riffle splitter. One
off-split
was submitted to the laboratory for
assay
. The other off-split (i.e. the
material not sent for assaying) of
each individual 1-metre interval were
returned to original sample bag,
cable tied and placed in storage for
future
reference.

For all sample HA samples: sample preparation is
types, the conducted at Interteks laboratory in
nature, quality Johannesburg. Each entire sample is
and crushed to nominal 100% -3mm in a
appropriateness Boyd crusher then pulverised to 85%
of the sample -75µm in a LM5. Approximately 100g
preparation pulp is collected and sent to
technique. Intertek Perth for TGC
analysis.

AC samples: sample preparation was
conducted at either Intertek in Perth
or Johannesburg. The entire submitted
sample (=< ~3kg) is pulverised to 85%
-75µm in a LM5. Approximately 100g
pulp is collected and sent to
Intertek-
Genalysis Perth for chemical analysis.
DD samples: all sample preparation was
conducted at Intertek Perth. Each
entire sample is crushed to nominal
100% -3mm in a Boyd crusher then
pulverised to 85% -75µm in a LM5.The
entire submitted sample (=< ~3kg) is
pulverised to 85% -75µm in a LM5.
Approximately 100g pulp is collected
and sent to
Intertek-
Genalysis Perth for chemical analysis.
Quality control HA/AC/DD: All sampling was carefully
procedures supervised. Ticket books were used
adopted for all with pre-numbered tickets placed in
sub-sampling the laboratory sample bag and double
stages to checked against the hardcopy sample
maximise register.

representivity of
samples. Field QC procedures involve the use of
certified reference material assay
standards, blanks, duplicates,
replicates for company QC measures,
and laboratory standards, replicate
assaying and barren washes for
laboratory QC measures. The insertion
rate of each of these averaged better
than 1 in
20.

Measures taken All mass reduction (field and
to ensure that laboratory splitting) of samples were
the sampling is performed within
representative
of the in situ Gys Sampling Nomogram limits relevant
material to this style of mineralisation.
collected, Field duplicate splits of HA/AC
including for samples and quarter DD core were
instance undertaken nominally every 20th
results for sample to assess sampling
field errors.
duplicate/second A program of field replicate splitting
-half of selected
sampling. (
~10%) mineralised AC intervals was
completed at the conclusion of the
drill program. In addition, a number
of air core holes were drilled to
twin existing HA and DD holes, to
assess the

representivity of the AC drill
samples. The results of these
programs
indicate
there are no significant sampling
errors.

Whether sample All mass reduction of HA/AC/DD drill
sizes are samples undertaken during field
appropriate to sampling and laboratory sample
the grain size preparation were guided by standard
of the material sampling nomograms and fall within
being
sampled. Gys safety limits for the style of
mineralisation being
sampled.

QualitThe nature, The analytical and laboratory
y of quality and procedures are considered to be
assay appropriateness appropriate for reporting graphite
data of the assaying mineralisation, according to industry
and and laboratory best practice.
labor procedures used
atory and whether the
tests technique is Each entire sample was pulverised to
considered 85% -75µm. Approximately 100g pulp is
partial or col
total. lected for analysis at Intertek Perth.
A sample of 0.2g is removed from the
100 gram pulp, first digested in

HCl to remove carbon attributed to
carbonate, and is then heated to
450°C to remove any organic carbon.
An

Eltra CS-2000 induction furnace
infra-red CS analyser is then used to
determine the remaining carbon which
is reported as Total Graphitic Carbon
(TGC) as a
percentage.

For geophysical No non-laboratory devices were used
tools, for
spectrometers,
handheld XRF chemical analysis.
instruments,
etc., the
parameters used
in determining
the analysis
including
instrument make
and model,
reading times,
calibrations
factors applied
and their
derivation,
etc.

Nature of Field QC procedures involve the use of
quality control certified reference
procedures material
adopted (e.g. (CRM) assay standards, blanks,
standards, duplicates
blanks, and replicates for company QC
duplicate, measures, and laboratory standards,
external rep
laboratory eat assaying and barren washes for
checks) and laboratory QC measures. The insertion
whether rate of each of these averaged better
acceptable than 1 in
levels of 20.
accuracy (i.e. Performance of the primary laboratory
lack of bias) across all assay batches
and precision were
have been within acceptable tolerance levels
established. and that there is no appreciable
bias.


VerifiThe verification Significant mineralisation
cation of significant intersections were verified by
of intersections alternative company
sampl by either personnel.
ing & independent or An independent resource consultant
assay alternative conducted a site visit during
ing company December 2016 during the AC drilling
personnel. program. All drilling and sampling
procedures were observed by the
consultant during the site
visit.

The use of A number of AC holes were drilled to
twinned twin existing
holes.
HA and DD holes as verification of
sampling and
assaying
.
Documentation of All data is initially collected on
primary data, paper logging sheets and codified to
data entry the Company's templates. This data
procedures, was hand entered to spreadsheets and
data validated by Company geologists.
verification, This data was then imported to a
data storage Microsoft Access Database then
(physical and validated
electronic)
protocols. both electronically and manually. Assay
data is provided as .csv files from
the laboratory and loaded into the
project specific drill

hole database. Spot checks are made
against the laboratory
certificates.

Discuss any No adjustments have been made to assay
adjustment to data.
assay data.


LocatiAccuracy and HA/AC/DD
on of quality of All collars have been picked-up by the
data surveys used to Companys consulting
point locate drill
s holes (collar surveyor, using a Leica GPS System
and down-hole 1200 in RTK mode to define the
surveys), drill-hole collar coordinates to
trenches, mine centimetre
workings and accuracy.
other locations
used in Mineral Down-hole surveying of all DD holes
Resource was undertaken on selected holes to
estimation. determine drill

hole deviation. Surveys were carried
out using a Reflex

Ez-Trak multi-shot survey tool at
nominal 30m intervals. Downhole
surveying using the same method was
also completed for selected AC holes.
Results indicate that no significant
deviation occurs over the relatively
short length of the AC holes. HA
holes were drilled to a maximum depth
of 12 and were not downhole
surveyed.

Specification of WGS84 (GRS80) UTM Zone 36 South
the grid system
used.

Quality and The Companys consulting surveyor used
adequacy of a Leica
topographic
control. DGPS System 1200 in RTK mode to
accurately locate the x, y, z of
drill
collars.

Previous checking of Hand Auger holes
with the Shuttle Radar Topographic
Mission (SRTM) 1-arc second digital
elevation data has shown that the
Leica GPS System produces
consistently accurate
results.

Given the low topographic relief of
the area it is believed that this
represents high quality
control.

Data Data spacing for HA: drill holes are located across the
spaci reporting of entire strike and width of the
ng & Exploration modelled deposit with spacing on a
distr Results. nominal 200m x 20m spacing with
ibutio infill of 10m along
n section.

AC: drill holes were generally drilled
at 200m x 20m along existing HA
transects with infill of 100m x 20m
over the northern and southern areas
of the
deposit.

DD: holes were drilled on existing HA
transects spaced between 200 and 400m
along the strike extent of the
deposit between 8,435,400mN to
8,437,200mN.

Whether the data The data spacing is sufficient for the
spacing and estimation of a Mineral Resource (see
distribution is Section 3 of JORC Table
sufficient to 1)
establish the
degree of
geological and
grade
continuity
appropriate for
the Mineral
Resource and
Ore Reserve
estimation
procedure(s)
and
classifications
applied.

Whether sample No sample compositing has occurred.
compositing has
been
applied.

OrientWhether the No bias attributable to orientation of
ation orientation of sampling upgrading of results has
of sampling been
data achieves identified.
in unbiased
relat sampling of
ion possible
to structures and
geolo the extent to
gical which this is
struc known
ture considering the
deposit
type

If the No bias attributable to orientation of
relationship sampling upgrading of results has
between the been
drilling identified.
orientation and Flake graphite mineralisation is
the orientation conformable with the main primary
of key layering of the gneissic and
mineralised schistose host lithology.
structures is
considered to
have introduced
a sampling
bias, this
should be
assessed and
reported if
material.

SampleThe measures Samples are securely stored at the
secur taken to ensure Companys compound in Lilongwe. Chain
ity sample of custody is maintained from time of
security sampling in the field until sample is
dispatched to the
laboratory.

AuditsThe results of It is considered by the Company that
or any audits or industry best practice methods have
revie reviews of been employed at all stages of the
ws sampling exploration.
techniques and
data

Section 2 Reporting of Exploration Results
Criter JORC Code Commentary
ia explanation

MineraType, reference The Company owns 100% of 3 Exclusive
l name/number, Prospecting Licences (EPLs) in
tenem location and Malawi. EPL0355 granted in 2015 for
ent & ownership 2 years, EPL0372 granted in 2016 for
land including 2 years, EPL0413 granted in 2014 for
tenur agreements or 3 years. All EPLs are renewable for
e material issues two additional periods of 2 years
statu with third each upon
s parties such as expiry.
joint ventures, All drilling was located on EPL0372.
partnerships,
overriding
royalties,
native title
interests,
historical
sites,
wilderness or
national park
and environment
settings.

The security of The tenements are in good standing and
the tenure held no known impediments to exploration
at the time of or mining
reporting along exist.
with any known
impediments to
obtaining a
licence to
operate in the
area.<

Unternehmensinformation / Kurzprofil:
Leseranfragen:
Bereitgestellt von Benutzer: irw
Datum: 18.04.2017 - 08:55 Uhr
Sprache: Deutsch
News-ID 1480630
Anzahl Zeichen: 108933

Kontakt-Informationen:
Stadt:

Wien

Kategorie:

Wirtschaft (allg.)

Diese Pressemitteilung wurde bisher 0 mal aufgerufen.

Alle Meldungen von Sovereign Metals Limited