Solis Minerals (ASX:SLM) has finished a comprehensive technical review of the extensive exploration work carried out by Rio Tinto (ASX:RIO).
The two-year effort from 2022 to 2024 collected 1,814 soil samples, 18 auger drill holes (124 samples), and 324 rock-chip samples.
Results confirmed the Mandacaru and Campo Grande prospects in Brazil are “high confidence, technically drill-ready lithium targets”.
Rio Tinto soil sampling defined a coherent lithium anomaly, extending across several kilometres. Peak values were up to 362 parts per million of lithium, exceeding early soil anomalies reported at Salinas South before Colina was discovered.
Surface mapping shows pegmatite and aplitic float, while regional geological interpretation places Mandacaru proximal to fertile S-type leucogranites. These are the same types of intrusions associated with major lithium deposits elsewhere in the Araçuaí–Salinas Lithium Valley, including Colina.
“Mandacaru and Campo Grande are well-defined, drill-ready prospects with strong lithium and lithium–caesium–tantalum pathfinder signatures, comparable to those seen at Colina before its discovery,” CEO Mitch Thomas says.
“In parallel, we are also planning broader regional exploration to identify additional targets to further support in potentially delivering a near-term discovery in one of the world’s most exciting hard-rock lithium districts as lithium prices exceed US$2,500 per tonne [of] SC65.”
Solis Minerals now plans to execute an initial scout diamond drilling program at the Mandacaru and Campo Grande prospects, subject to surface mapping, land access agreements, and rig availability.
A new drilling sequence will be confirmed in May 2026. The program will target two advanced areas to maximise early discovery potential within the Brazil Lithium Project.
Solis Minerals is a copper exploration company with assets mainly in South America.
Write to Richard Szabo at Mining.com.au
Images: Solis Minerals
