Mako Gold (ASX:MKG) has begun a complementary induced polarisation (IP) geophysical survey at its wholly owned Korhogo Project in Côte d’Ivoire, Africa.
The company says the survey will be undertaken across a 1.2km by 1.2km block and a single 2.5km line to further delineate a manganese deposit.
Mako today reports detailed geological mapping and rock chip sampling has identified several new multi-kilometre, manganese-rich zones on the Ouangolodougou permit.
The company reports pXRF analysis of 143 samples collected returned average manganese values of 14.7% and a peak grade up to 25% manganese.
Mapping and rock chip sampling also confirms the continuity of manganese mineralisation along ‘significant’ entire strike lengths, with widths up to 400m.
Preliminary metallurgical testing has begun to evaluate options for recovery of coarse manganese at saleable grade for steel production. Engineering consultancy Ausenco has been employed to conduct and oversee the metallurgical testing.
Managing Director Peter Ledwidge says: “The low-cost mapping and rock chip sampling program on our Korhogo Project has been very successful. The identification of several new manganese-rich zones adds further potential to the already significant discovery.
The results achieved with this sampling program confirms the continuity of manganese mineralisation over significant strike lengths as we prepare to further advance the project with metallurgical testing and a complementary geophysical IP survey that will greatly assist in future drill targeting.
Advancing the Korhogo Project in this manner allows our experienced team to continue their successful exploration and discovery of new prospects on our flagship Napié Project.”
Mako also announces it has continuing geological mapping and rock chip sampling at its Napié Project in new prospective areas to generate new drill targets, following the discovery of new ‘high-grade’ gold zones identified by mapping.
Geological activities are ongoing in conjunction with due diligence on a potential Goldridge transaction.
Extended property visits are planned by both Ledwidge and General Manager of Exploration Ann Ledwidge to evaluate new ‘high-grade’ gold zones and for due diligence for the potential transaction.
Napié remains the priority focus for exploration.
Mako notes further opportunities exist with the growing use of manganese which is a key stabilising component in the cathodes of nickel-manganese-cobalt lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles.
Write to Adam Drought at Mining.com.au
Images: Mako Gold
