Independent lab tests confirm helium levels over 12 times atmospheric background and hydrogen concentrations exceeding 6,200 times background at Prominence Energy's PEL 803 in South Australia, underpinning a robust subsurface gas system model.
- Helium up to 63 ppm confirmed by independent lab
- Hydrogen concentrations peak at 3,427 ppm across PEL 803
- 64% of soil samples show elevated hydrogen levels
- Results reinforce geological model linked to deep crustal structures
- Company progressing toward seismic surveys and drill target ranking
Independent Lab Confirms Strong Helium and Hydrogen Anomalies
Prominence Energy Limited (ASX:PRM) has secured independent laboratory validation of elevated helium and natural hydrogen concentrations at its PEL 803 licence on South Australia's Eyre Peninsula. The lab results, conducted by Atherium Pty Ltd, show helium reaching 63 ppm, more than 12 times atmospheric levels, and hydrogen peaking at 3,427 ppm, over 6,200 times background. These figures represent a significant technical milestone that bolsters confidence in Prominence's subsurface gas system hypothesis.
Widespread Hydrogen System Evident Across Survey Area
The soil gas survey, which analysed 63 samples, found that 64% exhibited elevated hydrogen concentrations, underscoring the pervasiveness of the natural hydrogen system beneath PEL 803. Elevated helium levels complement these findings, corroborating earlier field measurements and reinforcing the interpretation of active gas migration linked to deep geological structures.
Unlike instantaneous field readings, these laboratory samples were collected approximately 24 hours after probe installation during the recharge phase, a method regarded as more representative of naturally migrating gases and less prone to transient drilling artifacts. This approach adds weight to the reliability of the data and reduces early-stage exploration risk.
Geological Model Strengthened by Gas Anomalies
The spatial alignment of hydrogen anomalies with major interpreted structures and radiogenic basement rocks, including the Hiltaba Suite granites, supports Prominence's geological model. This model posits an active subsurface gas system driven by deep crustal features, a key factor in the company's exploration strategy. The coincidence of anomalies with structural highs further validates the prospectivity of PEL 803 and provides valuable calibration for the broader 64,000 km² Gawler Project portfolio.
Next Steps Focus on Target Integration and Seismic Acquisition
Prominence is now advancing toward seismic acquisition and drill target generation, integrating these geochemical results with gravity, magnetic, and structural datasets to define and rank priority exploration leads. The company aims to mature the highest-ranked targets toward drill-ready status in the coming months, a process expected to improve targeting efficiency and reduce exploration risk.
Chief Operating Officer Dr Krista Davies highlighted the significance of these results as a "de-risking milestone" and emphasised the increased confidence gained from the recharge-phase sampling. The integration of these findings with geophysical data is central to identifying optimal drilling locations, setting the stage for the next phase of exploration activity.
Bottom Line?
Prominence Energy’s independent lab confirmation of elevated helium and hydrogen provides a solid technical foundation, but the market will be watching how effectively the company translates this into seismic surveys and drill-ready targets.
Questions in the middle?
- How will integration of geochemical and geophysical data influence drill target prioritisation?
- What timelines can investors expect for seismic acquisition and subsequent drilling?
- Could the widespread hydrogen anomalies indicate broader potential beyond PEL 803 within the Gawler Project?