Last checked at 28 Apr 2020 09:01
28 April 2020
KSK Receives Key Exploration Permit
Asiamet Resources Limited ("Asiamet or the "Company") is pleased to announce the Company has received approval from Bandan Koordinasi Pernanaman Modal ("BKPM"), the investment co-ordinating body in Indonesia, for the Further Exploration Permit ("Exploration Permit") on its KSK Contact of Work ("CoW") located in Central Kalimantan.
Key Exploration Permit
The Company has received approvals from the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources ("MEMR"), the Ministry of Environment and Forestry ("MoEF") with the final approval provided by BKPM. The exploration permit allows the Company to undertake exploration activity on its key target areas within the CoW over the next 2 years.
Exploration Programme
As outlined in the Exploration Update announcement dated 26 November 2019, the exploration drilling programme will focus on immediate value delivery through advancing four highly prospective opportunities including some walk-up targets in close proximity to the proposed BKM copper project infrastructure.
These targets have the potential to add significant upside by extending mine life beyond the initial 9 years. Further, these targets are expected to add heap leachable copper resources to those already defined and create further opportunities for revenue enhancement. The high-priority target areas include:
· Target 1 The "BKM / BKZ Link Zone"- Extensions to the BKZ high-grade volcanic-hosted massive sulphide ("VHMS") style Zn Pb Cu. The high-grade BKZ mineralisation has strong characteristics with Zn-Pb-Cu VHMS style mineralisation, with upper bedded stratiform Zn and Pb and a lower copper pyrite zone. The lower copper pyrite zone at BKZ is not dissimilar to the BKM copper deposit and are likely part of the same mineralised system. Evaluation of the exploration data between BKM and BKZ supports this interpretation and shows that there is 500 metres of untested potential, termed the "Link Zone" between BKZ and BKM.
For reference, Asiamet's maiden Mineral Resource Estimate for the BKZ polymetallic project can be seen using the following link:
https://asiametresources.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/20180516-ARSNRS-BKZ-MRE-FINAL.pdf
For the BKM copper project, further data on Ore Reserves and Mineral Resource Estimate can be seen here:
https://asiametresources.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/20200313-ARSRNS-Business-Update-March-2020-FINAL.pdf
· Target 2 "BK West"- The BKM Copper mineralisation is associated with a geophysical Induced Polarisation ("IP") chargeability high signature. There is also an untested significant chargeability high located approximately 800 metres to the West North West of BKM coincident with silica sericite alteration and copper sulphides in veining as seen at BKM. The target is approximately 200 metres long (50% of the size of the BKM IP chargeability high).
· Target 3 "BKM Depth Extensions" - In several drill holes copper mineralisation has been intersected at depth and remains open e.g. 7m @ 1.02% Cu at end of the drill hole BKM31750-06. Between grid lines 31850N and 31500N an IP chargeability high dips at 40 degrees to the west for more than 250 metres. This "Root Zone" IP target lies immediately below the near-surface BKM copper mineralisation.
· Target 4 - "BK South" Near-surface oxide potential at BK South, that may be amenable to SX-EW processing. BK South Target is located approximately 1km to the south of the BKM Resource and shows near-surface oxide copper mineralisation in previous drilling over an area of 300 metres by 300 metres. Drill holes are broadly spaced, up to 100 metres apart. Intercepts include:
o BKM30500-01, 12 metres @ 2.15% Cu from 17.5 metres
o BKM30625-01, 10.25 metres @ 0.62% Cu from 4.25 metres.
o KBK028, 6.5 metres @ 0.43% Cu from 2 metres
Covid-19
With the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, the Company has been quick to respond to measures as outlined by the World Health Organisation to ensure the safety of our employees and contractors are not compromised. This includes social distancing and working from remote locations with ongoing proactive communication. Indonesia has recently moved to implement the prescribed guidelines including tight travel restrictions and isolation measures. The Company is constantly monitoring the ability to work safely during these unprecedented times, and at this point it is difficult to provide a clear indication of when drilling activities will commence, however we have our own drill rigs and drilling contractors on standby with the ability to mobilise at short notice.
Asiamet's Executive Chairman, Tony Manini commented:
"The receipt of the exploration permit, coupled with our recent financing and the ongoing process underway with Aeturnum Energy, are all important steps that will enable Asiamet to continue advancing a number of significant value enhancement opportunities at BKM and further position the project as a rare development ready copper asset in the Asian region.
The BKM feasibility study delivered a robust copper project with post tax NPV of $124.8 million, life of mine revenue of $1.27 billion and EBITDA of $563.3 million. Considerable scope to significantly increase the economics of the project primarily through value engineering and additions to the current proposed 9 year mine life were also identified.
Receipt of this exploration permit now provides Asiamet with the opportunity to re-activate drill programs and test some of our highest probability targets for additional mine life immediately upon the current Covid-19 restrictions being lifted. Preparations have been made and our drill teams will be mobilised as soon as they are able to do so.
Whilst restrictions on travel and personal movement remain in place, our in-country team remains very actively engaged with Indonesian government departments as they continue progressing the key forestry borrow and use permit required for the commencement of mine construction. Simultaneously the Asiamet corporate team is engaged with Aeturnum Energy's group of international technical, financial and legal advisors as they progress their due diligence on the BKM project under a 60 day exclusivity period. Asiamet is also in the process of appointing its own M&A advisors to support the board and management in considering any proposal received from Aeternum or any other groups post the exclusivity period.
We look forward to providing further updates for stakeholders over the coming weeks."
ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Antony (Tony) Manini, Executive Chairman
For further information, please contact:-Ends-
Tony ManiniExecutive Chairman, Asiamet Resources LimitedEmail: tony.manini@asiametresources.com
FlowComms Limited - Investor Relations
Sasha Sethi
Telephone: +44 (0) 7891 677 441
Email: Sasha@flowcomms.com
Asiamet Resources Nominated AdviserRFC Ambrian Limited
Bhavesh Patel / Stephen Allen
Telephone: +44 (0)20 3440 6800
Email: Bhavesh.Patel@rfcambrian.com / Stephen.Allen@rfcambrian.com
Berenberg
Matthew Armitt, Detlir Elezi
Telephone: +44 20 3207 7800
Email: Matthew.Armitt@berenberg.com / Detlir.Elezi@berenberg.com
LiberumClayton Bush, Kane Collings
Telephone: +44 20 3100 2000
Email: clayton.bush@Liberum.com
Optiva Securities LimitedChristian Dennis
Telephone: +44 20 3137 1903
Email: Christian.Dennis@optivasecurities.com
Blytheweigh Communications Limited
Tim Blythe/Megan Ray
Telephone: +44 (0)20 7138 3204
Email: Tim.Blythe@blytheweigh.com / Megan.Ray@blytheweigh.com
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FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENT
This news release contains forward-looking statements that are based on the Company's current expectations and estimates. Forward-looking statements are frequently characterised by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate", "suggest", "indicate" and other similar words or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from estimated or anticipated events or results implied or expressed in such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, among others: the actual results of current exploration activities; conclusions of economic evaluations; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; possible variations in ore grade or recovery rates; accidents, labour disputes and other risks of the mining industry; delays in obtaining governmental approvals or financing; and fluctuations in metal prices. There may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and accordingly undue reliance should not be put on such statements due to the inherent uncertainty therein.
This announcement contains inside information as stipulated under the Market Abuse Regulations (EU) no. 596/2014 ("MAR").
Glossary of Technical Terms
"anomaly or anomalous" | something in mineral exploration that geologists interpret as deviating from what is standard, normal, or expected. |
"assay" | The laboratory test conducted to determine the proportion of a mineral within a rock or other material. For copper, usually reported as percentage which is equivalent to percentage of the mineral (i.e. copper) per tonne of rock. |
"azimuth" | the "compass direction" refers to a geographic bearing or azimuth as measured by a magnetic compass, in true or magnetic north. |
"bornite" | Bornite, also known as peacock ore, is a copper sulphide mineral with the formula Cu5FeS4. |
"breccia" | Breccia is a rock classification, comprises millimetre to metre-scale rock fragments cemented together in a matrix, there are many sub-classifications of breccias. |
"chalcocite" | Chalcocite is a copper sulphide mineral with the formula Cu2S and is an important copper ore mineral. It is opaque and dark-gray to black with a metallic luster. |
"chalcopyrite" | Chalcopyrite is a copper sulphide mineral with formula CuFeS2. It has a brassy to golden yellow colour. |
"channel sample" | Samples collected across a mineralised rock exposure. The channel is typically orientated such that samples are collected perpendicular to the mineralised structure, if possible. |
"chargeability" | Chargeability is a physical property related to conductivity. Chargeability is used to characterise the formation and strength of the induced polarisation within a rock, under the influence of an electric field, suggesting sulphide mineralisation at depth. |
"CIM" | The reporting standard adopted for the reporting of the Mineral Resources is that defined by the terms and definitions given in the terminology, definitions and guidelines given in the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM) Standards on Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves (December 2005) as required by NI 43-101. The CIM Code is an internationally recognised reporting code as defined by the Combined Reserves International Reporting Standards Committee. |
"covellite" | Covellite is a copper sulphide mineral with the formula CuS. This indigo blue mineral is ubiquitous in some copper ores. |
"diamond drilling" | A drilling method in which penetration is achieved through abrasive cutting by rotation of a diamond encrusted drill bit. This drilling method enables collection of tubes of intact rock (core) and when successful gives the best possible quality samples for description, sampling and analysis of an ore body or mineralised structure. |
"digenite" | Digenite is a copper sulphide mineral with formula Cu9S5. Digenite is a black to dark blue opaque mineral. |
"dip" | A line directed down the steepest axis of a planar structure including a planar ore body or zone of mineralisation. The dip has a measurable direction and inclination from horizontal. |
"galena" | Galena is the natural mineral form of lead (II) sulphide, with formula PbS. It is the most important ore of lead and an important source of silver. It has a silver colour. |
"grab sample" | are samples of rock material collected from a small area, often just a few pieces or even a single piece of rock "grabbed" from a face, dump or outcrop or roughly 2-5kg. These are common types of rock samples collected when conducting mineral exploration. The sample usually consists of material that is taken to be representative of a specific type of rock or mineralisation. |
"grade" | The proportion of a mineral within a rock or other material. For copper mineralisation this is usually reported as % of copper per tonne of rock (g/t). |
"g/t" | grams per tonne; equivalent to parts per million ('ppm') |
"hematite" | Hematite is the mineral form of iron(III) oxide (Fe2O3), one of several iron oxides. Magnetite alteration is also typically associate with porphyry copper systems, at or close to the central core. |
"hypogene" | Hypogene ore processes occur deep below the earth's surface, and form deposits of primary minerals, such as chalcopyrite and bornite. |
"Indicated Resource" | An "Indicated Mineral Resource" is that part of a Mineral Resource for which quantity, grade or quality, densities, shape and physical characteristics, can be estimated with a level of confidence sufficient to allow the appropriate application of technical and economic parameters, to support mine planning and evaluation of the economic viability of the deposit. The estimate is based on detailed and reliable exploration and testing information gathered through appropriate techniques from locations such as outcrops, trenches, pits, workings and drill holes that are spaced closely enough for geological and grade continuity to be reasonably assumed. |
"Indicated Resource" | An "Indicated Mineral Resource" is that part of a Mineral Resource for which quantity, grade or quality, densities, shape and physical characteristics, can be estimated with a level of confidence sufficient to allow the appropriate application of technical and economic parameters, to support mine planning and evaluation of the economic viability of the deposit. The estimate is based on detailed and reliable exploration and testing information gathered through appropriate techniques from locations such as outcrops, trenches, pits, workings and drill holes that are spaced closely enough for geological and grade continuity to be reasonably assumed. |
"Inferred Resource" | An "Inferred Mineral Resource" is that part of a Mineral Resource for which quantity and grade or quality can be estimated on the basis of geological evidence and limited sampling and reasonably assumed, but not verified, geological and grade continuity. The estimate is based on limited information and sampling gathered through appropriate techniques from locations such as outcrops, trenches, pits, workings and drill holes. |
"Induced Polarisation Geophysics" | Induced polarisation (IP) is a geophysical survey used to identify the electrical chargeability of subsurface materials, such as sulphides. The survey involves an electric current that is transmitted into the subsurface through two electrodes, and voltage is monitored through two other electrodes. |
"intercept" | Refers to a sample or sequence of samples taken across the entire width or an ore body or mineralised zone. The intercept is described by the entire thickness and the average grade of mineralisation. |
"lbs" | Pounds (measure of weight) |
"Mlbs" | Million pounds (measure of weight) |
"magnetite" | Magnetite is main iron ore mineral, with chemical formula Fe3O4. Magnetite is ferromagnetic, and it is attracted to a magnet and can be magnetised to become a permanent magnet itself. |
"massive" | In a geological sense, refers to a zone of mineralisation that is dominated by sulphide minerals. The sulphide-mineral-rich material can occur in centimetre-scale, metre-scale or in tens of metres wide veins, lenses or sheet-like bodies containing sphalerite, galena, and / or chalcopyrite etc. |
"Measured Resource" | A "Measured Mineral Resource" is that part of a Mineral Resource for which quantity, grade or quality, densities, shape, and physical characteristics are so well established that they can be estimated with confidence sufficient to allow the appropriate application of technical and economic parameters, to support production planning and evaluation of the economic viability of the deposit. The estimate is based on detailed and reliable exploration, sampling and testing information gathered through appropriate techniques from locations such as outcrops, trenches, pits, workings and drill holes that are spaced closely enough to confirm both geological and grade continuity. |
"Mineral Resource" | A "Mineral Resource" is a concentration or occurrence of diamonds, natural solid inorganic material, or natural solid fossilised organic material including base and precious metals, coal, and industrial minerals in or on the Earth's crust in such form and quantity and of such a grade or quality that it has reasonable prospects for economic extraction. The location, quantity, grade, geological characteristics and continuity of a Mineral Resource are known, estimated or interpreted from specific geological evidence and knowledge. |
"mineralisation" | In geology, mineralisation is the deposition of economically important metals (copper, gold, lead, zin etc) that in some cases can be in sufficient quantity to form mineral ore bodies. |
"open pit mining" | A method of extracting minerals from the earth by excavating downwards from the surface such that the ore is extracted in the open air (as opposed to underground mining). |
"outcrop" | A section of a rock formation or mineral vein that appears at the surface of the earth. Geologists take direct observations and samples from outcrops, used in geologic analysis and creating geologic maps. In situ (in place) measurements are critical for proper analysis of the geology and mineralisation of the area under investigation. |
"polymetallic" | three or more metals that may occur in magmatic, volcanogenic, or hydrothermal environments; common base and precious metals include copper, lead, zinc, silver and gold. |
"polymict" | A geology term, often applied to breccias or conglomerates, which identifies the composition as consisting of fragments of several different rock types. |
"porphyry" | Porphyry copper deposits are copper +- gold +- molybdenum orebodies that are formed from hydrothermal fluids that originate from a voluminous magma chamber below the deposit itself. |
"Preliminary Economic Assessment" | NI 43-101 defines a PEA as "a study, other than a pre-feasibility study or feasibility study, which includes an economic analysis of the potential viability of mineral Resources". |
"propylitic alteration" | Propylitic alteration is the chemical alteration of minerals within a rock, caused by hydrothermal fluids. This style of alteration typically results in epidote-chlorite+-albite alteration and veining or fracture filling, commonly altering biotite or amphibole minerals within the rock groundmass. It typically occurs along with pyrite. |
"sediments" | Sedimentary rocks formed by the accumulation of sediments. There are three types, Clastic, Chemical and Organic sedimentary rocks. |
"sequential assays" | Sequential copper analysis is a technique to semi-quantitatively define the zonations associated with some copper deposits. The method is based on the partial dissolution behaviour displayed by the prevalent copper minerals to solutions containing sulphuric acid and sodium cyanide. Results from sequential analyses can theoretically determine the amounts of leachable oxide minerals, leachable secondary sulphide minerals, and primary copper minerals, respectively. |
"sphalerite" | Sphalerite is a zinc sulphide in crystalline form but almost always contains variable iron, with formula (Zn,Fe)S. It can have a yellowish to honey brown or black colour. |
"supergene" | Supergene ore processes occur near surface, and form deposits of secondary minerals, such as malachite, azurite, chalcocite, covellite, digenite, etc. |
"surface rock chip samples" | Rock chip samples approximately 2kg in size that are typically collected from surface outcrops exposed along rivers and mountain ridgelines. |
"sx-ew" | Solvent Extraction Electro Winning is a two-stage hydrometallurgical process that first extracts and upgrades copper ions from low-grade leach solutions into a solvent containing a chemical that selectively reacts with and binds the copper in the solvent. |
"veins" | A vein is a sheet-like or anastomosing fracture that has been infilled with mineral ore (chalcopyrite, covellite etc) or mineral gangue (quartz, calcite etc) material, within a rock. Veins form when minerals carried by an aqueous solution within the rock mass are deposited through precipitation and infill or coat the fracture faces. |
"volcanics" | Volcanic rock such as andesite or basalt that is formed from magma erupted from a volcano, or hot clastic material that erupts from a volcano and is deposited as volcaniclastic or pyroclastics. |