Resource Upgrade Hinges on Porosity Tests at Anson’s Green River Project
Anson Resources is leveraging historic diamond core samples to refine flow rate estimates and upgrade its Green River lithium resource, accelerating its path to production.
- Laboratory testing on historic Mississippian diamond core to determine porosity, specific yield, and permeability
- Expected upgrade of JORC resource from Exploration Target to Indicated and Inferred categories
- Integration of new porosity data into geological and flow models for optimized brine extraction and disposal
- Significant cost and time savings by using existing core samples instead of new drilling
- Supports planned demonstration and full-scale lithium production plants in Utah
Historic Core Unlocks New Insights
Anson Resources Ltd (ASX – ASN) has announced a strategic move to conduct laboratory test work on historic Mississippian diamond core samples from its Green River Lithium Project in southeastern Utah. These samples, originally collected during past oil and gas exploration, will be analyzed to more precisely determine key reservoir properties such as porosity, specific yield, and permeability. These parameters are critical to accurately estimating flow rates of lithium-rich brines, a cornerstone for the company’s planned demonstration and full-scale production plants.
Resource Upgrade on the Horizon
The test work is expected to validate and potentially increase the current JORC resource estimate. Presently, the resource is classified as an Exploration Target based on modeling data. Should laboratory results confirm higher porosity and permeability than previously assumed, Anson anticipates upgrading portions of the resource into the Indicated and Inferred categories. This upgrade would mark a significant milestone, providing greater confidence in the resource’s economic viability and accelerating project development timelines.
Cost and Time Efficiencies
By utilizing existing diamond core samples rather than commissioning new drilling programs, Anson is achieving notable cost savings and reducing project lead times. The historic core, which exhibits fracturing and vuggy porosity conducive to brine storage, offers a valuable shortcut to refining the geological and flow models. These models, including the Petrel platform, will incorporate the new porosity data to better identify optimal horizons for brine extraction and waste brine disposal, enhancing operational planning.
Geological Context and Future Planning
The Green River project area features Mississippian limestone and dolomite units known for their high porosity and permeability, essential for hosting lithium-saturated brines. The company’s approach also considers the geological stability of the formations, including ductile salt layers that act as seals over geological time, preventing cross-contamination between aquifers. This understanding supports the design of environmentally responsible brine disposal strategies.
Looking Ahead
Anson plans to integrate the test results with historical drilling data and ongoing exploration efforts to refine its 3D geological and flow rate models. These efforts will inform the number and placement of extraction wells necessary to supply the lithium production facility. The company’s CEO, Bruce Richardson, emphasizes that this work is a crucial step toward unlocking the full potential of the Green River Lithium Project and delivering long-term shareholder value.
Bottom Line?
Anson’s historic core test work could be the catalyst that transforms its Green River project from promising target to near-term lithium producer.
Questions in the middle?
- How significantly will the JORC resource upgrade impact Anson’s valuation and financing options?
- What are the timelines for completing test work and updating the resource statement?
- How will the new porosity data influence the design and scale of the planned lithium production facilities?
