East Salinas Drilling Begins Amid Uncertainties Over Resource Continuity and Tenement Transfer
Enova Mining has initiated diamond drilling at its East Salinas Project in Brazil, targeting high-grade rare earth element mineralisation with promising surface assays. The program aims to confirm mineral continuity and advance resource definition along a 4 km strike.
- Diamond drilling commenced targeting high-grade REE zones with up to 2.17% TREO
- 10–15 drill holes planned over ~1,000 metres along Bald Hill, Naked Hill, and Hairy Hill
- High NdPr oxide and heavy rare earth oxide grades identified in surface samples
- East Salinas project located in Brazil’s stable mining jurisdiction with strong infrastructure
- Next steps include resource definition drilling and metallurgical test work
Drilling Begins on Promising Rare Earth Targets
Enova Mining Limited (ASX – ENV) has taken a significant step forward in its exploration efforts by commencing diamond drilling at the East Salinas Project in Brazil. This initial program targets multiple high-grade rare earth element (REE) zones previously identified through surface sampling, with assays reaching up to 2.17% total rare earth oxides (TREO). The drilling campaign aims to validate the continuity of mineralisation beneath the surface and to better understand the geological setting of the Bald Hill, Naked Hill, and Hairy Hill prospects.
Strategic Focus on High-Impact Targets
The program consists of 10 to 15 diamond drill holes, each between 50 and 100 metres deep, covering approximately 1,000 metres along a 4-kilometre strike length. These targets were prioritised based on multi-stage geochemical surveys and geophysical data that revealed strong REE anomalies. Notably, surface samples have shown exceptional grades of neodymium and praseodymium oxides (NdPr) up to 7,209 ppm, alongside heavy rare earth oxides (HREO) reaching 2,508 ppm, underscoring the project's potential to yield valuable critical minerals.
Geological Insights and Exploration Strategy
Geological interpretations suggest that the three prospects may be interconnected as part of a larger intrusive system within the Medina Granitic Complex. This emerging model elevates the exploration potential by indicating that surface outcrops could be the upper expression of a more extensive mineralised body at depth. Enova is leveraging a comprehensive approach combining geophysics, hyperspectral analysis, and diamond drilling to unlock the full potential of this underexplored rare earth terrain.
Brazil’s Mining Jurisdiction and Project Infrastructure
Located in Minas Gerais, a tier-one mining jurisdiction, the East Salinas Project benefits from Brazil’s stable regulatory environment, established infrastructure, and skilled workforce. The tenements are currently held by Mineração Paranaí Ltda, with formal transfer processes underway to Enova’s Brazilian subsidiary. This strong local foundation supports Enova’s ambitions to advance the project efficiently and cost-effectively.
Looking Ahead – Resource Definition and Development
Following the initial drilling results, Enova plans to undertake detailed resource definition drilling, including infill and step-out holes, to establish mineral continuity and grade distribution. Complementary metallurgical test work will support future feasibility studies, positioning East Salinas for a maiden resource estimate. This progression aligns with Enova’s broader strategy to build a world-class portfolio of critical minerals assets to meet growing global demand for rare earth elements essential to clean energy technologies.
Bottom Line?
East Salinas drilling marks a pivotal moment for Enova, with upcoming assay results set to shape the project’s future trajectory.
Questions in the middle?
- Will initial drilling confirm the vertical continuity and grade consistency of REE mineralisation?
- How quickly will Enova complete the tenement transfer to secure full project control?
- What metallurgical characteristics will the fresh core samples reveal for processing feasibility?
