Enova Mining Reports Up to 79% NdPr Recovery at Poços de Caldas

Strong Rare Earth Recoveries Highlight Poços Potential

Enova Mining (ASX:ENV) has unveiled initial metallurgical test work from its Poços de Caldas project in Brazil, showcasing neodymium-praseodymium (NdPr) recoveries averaging 71%, with a standout peak of 79%. Total rare earth oxide (TREO) recoveries averaged around 55%, while heavy rare earth oxides (HREO) reached up to 65%. These results, derived from six saprolite samples using a standard ionic adsorption clay (IAC) leach protocol, provide early validation of Poços as a viable ionic adsorption clay rare earth system.

Near-Surface Mineralisation Confirmed by Auger Drilling

The metallurgical findings build on extensive auger drilling that confirmed high-grade rare earth element (REE) mineralisation from surface to approximately six metres depth. Multiple intercepts exceeded 2,000 ppm TREO, with some assays surpassing 3,000 ppm TREO and NdPr ratios reaching up to 27%. Notably, a 5-metre interval at Area 4 returned 3,871 ppm TREO with 27% NdPr, including a 2-metre section hitting nearly 5,000 ppm TREO. These shallow, saprolite-hosted mineralised zones align with Enova's interpretation of a large-scale weathering profile enriched in REEs over fertile alkaline intrusive rocks.

Ionic Adsorption Clay Leaching Validated

Leach testing conducted by SGS Geosol Laboratory in Brazil used an established IAC leach technique, reinforcing the amenability of Poços mineralisation to low-impact extraction methods. Enova’s CEO Eric Vesel highlighted the attractiveness of high NdPr recoveries combined with elevated grades, noting the potential for environmentally sensitive, low-capital in-situ leaching using modular plants; a method increasingly adopted in Brazil. This approach could unlock access to mineralisation in sensitive zones, including areas near ecological sanctuaries.

Next Steps Focus on Resource Delineation and Depth Extension

While the depth extent of the saprolite-hosted mineralisation remains untested beyond six metres, Enova plans follow-up auger drilling after progressing its Naked Hill project. The upcoming program will assess strike and dip continuity and target untested areas with sampling grids ranging from 50x50m to 100x100m. Further metallurgical test work will accompany drilling to refine recovery characteristics and support resource definition.

Environmental and Jurisdictional Considerations

Poços de Caldas lies within a stable, mining-friendly jurisdiction in Minas Gerais, Brazil, which supports long-term resource development with minimal government interference. However, Enova acknowledges two environmentally sensitive zones overlapping its tenements, including the Serra da Pedra Branca Ecological Sanctuary and a surrounding buffer zone. Future exploration and development decisions will weigh mineral potential against operational constraints and regulatory requirements.

Broader Portfolio and Strategic Focus

Enova continues to advance multiple projects alongside Poços, including an active drilling campaign at Naked Hill, metallurgical studies at the Coda project targeting titanium, scandium, and REEs, and recent deep drilling at Charley Creek. Exploration at Lithium Valley projects is ongoing, with assay results pending. The company’s systematic approach integrates drilling, metallurgy, mapping, and geospatial analysis across its portfolio to support the clean energy transition.