Perpetual’s Lithium Prospect Grows; Drilling Set to Test Open-Ended Anomaly

Expanding Lithium Footprint in Brazil’s Lithium Valley

Perpetual Resources Ltd (ASX: PEC) has announced a major advancement in its exploration efforts at the Igrejinha Project, located in the globally renowned Lithium Valley of Minas Gerais, Brazil. The company’s recent soil sampling program has revealed a broad and coherent lithium-in-soil anomaly extending over 1.4 kilometres, significantly expanding the known mineralised corridor beyond previously mapped high-grade spodumene outcrops.

This extended anomaly is characterised by elevated concentrations of lithium and pathfinder elements such as beryllium, caesium, potassium, and tungsten, with peak soil assay results reaching 577 ppm lithium oxide (Li₂O), 168 ppm caesium, and 1,029 ppm tungsten. These findings build on earlier rock chip samples that recorded lithium grades exceeding 7% Li₂O, underscoring the prospect’s potential to host high-grade lithium-bearing pegmatites.

New Target Emerges Southeast of Main Prospect

In addition to the main anomaly, Perpetual has identified a new lithium soil anomaly approximately 2.3 kilometres southeast of the primary Igrejinha pegmatite. This secondary target, spanning roughly 500 metres, returned soil samples with lithium oxide values exceeding 400 ppm. Strategically positioned within a highly prospective corridor bordered by established lithium producers Sigma Lithium and Lithium Ionic, this emerging anomaly adds a promising regional upside to Perpetual’s exploration portfolio.

Preparation for Maiden Drilling Campaign

With these encouraging geochemical results in hand, Perpetual is advancing swiftly toward its maiden reverse circulation (RC) drilling program, planned to commence in early June 2025. The 1,500-metre drilling campaign aims to test the expanded lithium corridor and newly identified anomalies. Site preparations are well underway, including the finalisation of all land access agreements and construction of access roads, facilitating the imminent mobilisation of the drill rig by ServDrill Brazil, the company’s appointed contractor.

Exploration Manager Allan Stephens highlighted the significance of the findings, stating, “These latest results reinforce the scale and potential of the Igrejinha Project, with the LCT corridor now stretching over 1.4 km and remaining open along strike. A new lithium anomaly highlights regional upside, supported by high-grade lithium and caesium at an artisanal working. With maiden drilling starting early June, Perpetual is entering an exciting phase to unlock value at its flagship project.”

Robust Exploration Model Underpins Confidence

The soil and auger sampling program complements an integrated geological model that incorporates multispectral analysis, extensive field mapping, and previous rock chip sampling. This multi-disciplinary approach provides a robust framework for prioritising drill targets and enhances confidence in the potential for further mineralisation along strike. The mineralised corridor remains open-ended, suggesting that additional extensions could be delineated with ongoing exploration.

Perpetual holds 100% exploration rights over multiple tenements in the region, including the Igrejinha and Isabella Projects, and continues to evaluate complementary acquisitions to strengthen its critical minerals portfolio. The company’s focus on lithium and other essential minerals aligns with the growing global demand for new energy technologies.