Lithium Plus Highlights Near-Surface Rubidium and Beryllium at Spotted Wonder

Rare Metal Potential Emerges in Northern Territory Pegmatites

Lithium Plus Minerals (ASX:LPM) has spotlighted the strategic value of its Spotted Wonder Project within the Arunta Block after re-assessing historic drilling data. The company uncovered significant near-surface mineralisation of rubidium, lithium, and beryllium, rare metals that underpin advanced technologies but remain scarce globally.

Key assay highlights include wide rubidium intercepts from surface, such as 12 metres grading 0.22% Rb₂O and 0.13% Li₂O, and 19 metres at 0.27% Rb₂O. These results emerged from the Delmore Prospect, where recent re-modelling confirmed the continuity of mineralisation along strike, including zones of high-grade rubidium.

Expanding Exploration Plans for Q3 2026

The company has outlined plans for a systematic field campaign in the third quarter of 2026. This will involve detailed geological mapping and rock chip sampling across multiple pegmatite targets, including Polonis, Costean, and Saunders prospects, aiming to prioritise drill targets. The near-surface nature of the mineralisation suggests potential for cost-effective resource definition.

Executive Chairman Dr Bin Guo described the early-stage results as "very encouraging," emphasising the continuity and scale potential of the rubidium mineralisation within the lithium-cesium-tantalum (LCT) pegmatite system. He also highlighted the association with lithium and beryllium as adding further value, while noting that more drilling and mineralogical work are needed before a formal resource can be established.

Strategic Importance of Rubidium and Beryllium

Rubidium, though demanded in relatively small volumes, plays a critical role in high-precision timing technologies such as atomic clocks that support GPS, telecommunications, and data networks. It is also integral to quantum research and medical imaging. The metal is listed as a critical mineral by the United States Geological Survey, reflecting its strategic importance.

Beryllium, meanwhile, is prized for its high temperature resistance and toughness, with applications spanning nuclear, electronics, and ceramics industries. Global supply is tightly concentrated, with the US dominating production, prompting several governments, including Australia’s Northern Territory, to classify it as a critical mineral due to supply risks.

Advancing Lithium Plus’s Broader Portfolio

While the Spotted Wonder Project opens a new front in rare metal exploration, Lithium Plus remains focused on advancing its flagship Bynoe Lithium Project near Darwin. The company recently secured a mining lease and updated mineral resource estimates at the Lei deposit, with ongoing work to lodge environmental referrals and evaluate underground and direct shipping ore development options.

This dual-track approach, developing a low-cost lithium operation alongside exploring high-value rare metal pegmatites, positions Lithium Plus to leverage diverse demand drivers in critical minerals markets.