Early CODA Central Drilling Signals Potential but Assay Results Pending
Enova Mining has completed a pivotal drilling campaign at CODA Central, uncovering significant zones of rare earth elements and titanium mineralisation. Over 200 samples are now en route to laboratory analysis, marking a key step in the company’s resource development strategy.
- Completion of six RC drill holes totaling 297 meters at CODA Central
- Over 200 samples dispatched to SGS Geosol Laboratory for assay
- Preliminary lithology indicates thick mineralised zones in Patos formation
- Potential for high-grade titanium and rare earth element deposits
- Next phase to focus on resource delineation and expanded drilling
Exploration Milestone at CODA Central
Enova Mining Ltd (ASX: ENV) has announced the successful completion of a significant reverse circulation (RC) drilling program at its CODA Central project in Minas Gerais, Brazil. The campaign comprised six drill holes totaling 297 meters, aimed at evaluating the presence and continuity of rare earth elements (REE) and titanium mineralisation within the Patos formation, a key geological unit of the Cretaceous Mata Do Corda Group.
This milestone represents a critical step in Enova’s broader strategy to unlock the resource potential of the CODA project group, which has already demonstrated promising mineralisation at CODA North. The drilling focused on wide-area sampling to rapidly assess the extent of mineralised zones, with over 200 samples now dispatched to SGS Geosol Laboratory in Vespasiano for detailed assay.
Preliminary Geological Insights
Early lithological logging from the drill holes has revealed thick mineralised strata of kamafugite within the Patos formation. This rock type is known for hosting high-grade titanium and REE mineralisation, particularly in the CODA North area. The presence of saprolitised kamafugite and associated weathering profiles suggests favourable conditions for clay-hosted REE deposits, which are increasingly sought after for their applications in high-tech and green energy sectors.
While assay results are pending, the initial geological observations provide valuable insights into the structural continuity and potential scale of mineralised zones at CODA Central. The terrain’s plateau and valley geomorphology, combined with existing infrastructure such as nearby powerlines, further enhance the project’s development prospects.
Strategic Importance and Next Steps
Enova’s CEO, Eric Vesel, emphasised the significance of this exploration phase, noting that the drilling program “marks a significant step toward a new discovery” and reinforces the company’s commitment to advancing resource delineation. The assay data, expected imminently, will guide the next phase of exploration, which includes infill and step-out drilling to establish geological and grade continuity.
Beyond CODA Central, Enova is also progressing exploration across other tenements within the CODA project group, including CODA East, XS, XN, and South, each with potential for additional high-grade REE and lithium mineralisation. The company’s integrated approach, leveraging local Brazilian expertise and international rare earth supply chain networks, positions it well to capitalise on the growing global demand for critical minerals.
Balancing Opportunity with Caution
Notably, the CODA Central project remains at an early exploration stage. While preliminary findings are encouraging, the economic viability and extent of mineral resources will depend on forthcoming assay results and subsequent metallurgical and resource modelling work. Enova’s transparent reporting and adherence to industry best practices provide confidence in the integrity of the exploration data, but investors should remain mindful of the inherent risks associated with mineral exploration.
Bottom Line?
As assay results approach, Enova’s CODA Central project stands at the cusp of potentially transformative resource growth in critical minerals.
Questions in the middle?
- What will the assay results reveal about the grade and continuity of REE and titanium mineralisation?
- How will Enova prioritise funding and drilling across its multiple CODA tenements following these results?
- What are the potential timelines and challenges for advancing CODA Central from exploration to resource definition?