Structural Complexity Could Make or Break Mandrake’s Lithium Ambitions
Mandrake Resources has completed detailed mapping of the Precambrian basement at its Utah Lithium Project, revealing structural features that could concentrate lithium-rich brines. This milestone advances a brine flow modelling study aimed at pinpointing high-grade lithium zones within a 3.3Mt inferred resource.
- Completion of Precambrian basement mapping at Utah Lithium Project
- Identification of structural highs and radiogenic rocks enhancing lithium brine concentrations
- Ongoing brine flow modelling to target high-grade lithium zones
- Project hosts 3.3Mt Lithium Carbonate Equivalent inferred resource
- Strong balance sheet with $13.3M cash and zero debt
Mapping Unlocks New Lithium Insights
Mandrake Resources Limited (ASX, MAN) has announced the completion of a critical geological mapping phase at its 100%-owned Utah Lithium Project, located in the Paradox Basin. This work focused on the Precambrian basement rocks underlying the lithium-bearing Leadville Formation, a key step in understanding how lithium-rich brines migrate and concentrate.
The mapping revealed a complex structural framework featuring paleo highs and fault zones that act as enhanced fluid pathways. These structures, combined with proximity to radiogenic crystalline basement rocks, are believed to drive elevated lithium concentrations in the brines. This insight challenges traditional exploration models that were historically oil and gas centric, opening new avenues for lithium targeting.
Advancing the Brine Flow Model
This geological foundation supports the ongoing development of a 2D lithium brine flow model. By integrating seismic data, petrophysical logs, and geochemical trends, Mandrake aims to identify ‘sweet spots’ where lithium brines accumulate at economically attractive grades. Early results, such as a remarkable 340 mg/L lithium concentration from a historical well, underscore the potential of this approach.
The model will incorporate core-based porosity and permeability data, fault geometries, and potentiometric surfaces to simulate brine movement within the Leadville Formation. The ultimate goal is to refine exploration targets ahead of drilling, which Mandrake has yet to commence.
Project Strengths and Strategic Positioning
The Utah Lithium Project boasts a maiden inferred resource estimate of 3.3 million tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent, positioning it as a significant lithium brine asset in the United States. Situated in a pro-mining jurisdiction with access to Tier 1 infrastructure, the project benefits from supportive regulatory conditions and aligns with US government initiatives to bolster domestic critical mineral supply chains.
Financially, Mandrake is well positioned with $13.3 million in cash and no debt as of June 2025, providing a solid runway to advance exploration and modelling efforts. The company’s strategic use of historical oil and gas wells to sample lithium brines exemplifies an innovative, cost-effective approach to resource evaluation.
Looking Ahead
Mandrake’s next steps include further refinement of the brine flow model and the release of additional results expected shortly. These developments will be closely watched by investors eager to see how the company translates geological insights into drill-ready targets and, ultimately, resource upgrades.
Bottom Line?
Mandrake’s basement mapping breakthrough sets the stage for targeted lithium exploration in Utah’s emerging brine play.
Questions in the middle?
- How will the upcoming brine flow modelling results influence Mandrake’s drilling plans?
- What potential resource upgrades could arise from identifying high-grade lithium zones?
- How might evolving US regulatory policies impact project development timelines?
