Australian technology metals company Pinnacle Minerals (ASX:PIM) reports it has identified halloysite nanotubes in an initial surface sample from a kaolin dam at the Tammin Project in Western Australia.
The company says it is currently undertaking preliminary exploration activities and target generation led by both field observations and geophysics to ensure that once granted, Pinnacle can add value to the project immediately with a ‘cost-effective’ and targeted drill campaign.
Pinnacle Minerals Managing Director Nic Matich says: “Identifying halloysite nanotubes in the first surface sample taken from the Tammin Project is a fantastic result for the company and one which sets the tone for the project moving forward.
“Identifying halloysite nanotubes in the first surface sample taken from the Tammin Project is a fantastic result for the company”
Located close to Perth with ready access to infrastructure including both rail and a major highway which run through the project area, we are eagerly awaiting further assay results from the project and look forward to updating shareholders.”
The company believes that the presence of halloysite from surface indicates the potential for a halloysite dominant mineralised zone in the vicinity of the sample location, with follow-up exploration post granting of tenure and securing surface rights to endeavour to zero-in on any such material.
Pinnacle reports halloysite is a ‘rare’ form of kaolin formed by hydrothermal adjustment of alumino-silicate minerals and naturally occurs as nanotubes which lends itself to uses in ‘high-grade’ porcelain and ‘high-tech’ applications. For these reasons, halloysite-kaolin attracts a ‘significant’ premium in the market compared to typical kaolin prices.
The company further notes Halloysite Nanotube Technology (HNT) is a burgeoning field of study with new applications creating a demand for this ‘rare’ material, with specialist applications including usage in hydrogen storage, water purification, carbon capture and lithium-ion batteries.
According to Pinnacle, the Tammin Project has ‘many’ logistical advantages over similar kaolin projects including being closer to a deep-water port and having both a highway and rail line running through it.
The company notes land access agreements are currently being negotiated pending the granting of the tenements, which Pinnacle is optimistic about achieving a positive outcome for all concerned parties.
Pinnacle Minerals is an ASX listed technology metals company focused on its portfolio of kaolin, halloysite, magnetite and battery metals projects in Western Australia and South Australia.
These projects include the Bobalong, Holly and Tammin kaolin projects, and the Lathan Project in Western Australia, as well as the White Knight and Camel Lake Project in South Australia.
Images: Pinnacle Minerals Ltd
