Unicorn Project
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The Unicorn project is one of Dart’s porphyry targets in the Dart EL4726, located approximately 20km south east of Corryong in north east Victoria. Geochemistry results indicate the presence of a large high-grade molybdenum (Mo) anomaly at the Unicorn project, with average surface grades of over 400ppm Mo within the +220 grade contour. The Unicorn porphyry base metals project was identified using the Polygonal Vortex Model developed by Dart geologists. The molybdenum discovery was made through an extensive geochemical survey conducted at Dart’s porphyry targets, including testing soil and rock chip sampling, focusing on the intersection of the Empress and Zulu corridors at Mt Unicorn (see figure 1). Geochemical sampling on a 100 x 100m grid has identified an area of over 20 hectares with an average molybdenum grade of 440ppm within the +220 grade contour (see figure 2) with soil, rock float and chip samples peaking at 997ppm or 0.097% Mo. The anomaly is consistent over an area where the topography varies by over 180m. The geochemistry survey indicates a large, central, circular zone over 500m across of anomalous molybdenum, with significant silver, copper and bismuth accompanying the molybdenum anomaly. Nearby areas of rock outcrop show extensive siliceous hydrothermal alteration, veins of quartz produced as a result of hot fluid circulation during volcanic activity, and boxworks, thin, honeycomb shaped blades of mineral that remain after the sulphides have dissolved away, support Dart’s interpretation of a major mineralised system. Phase II infill geochemistry on a 50 x 50m grid over 0.6 Sq.km of the most intense anomalism is now largely complete and samples are being prepared and submitted for assay. Dart is also reprocessing Geo-Science Victoria magnetic data taken in 1995 to assist with detailed geological modelling and targeting for future drilling. A short 2-3 week RC Drilling program is planned to further test the anomaly. Drilling will commence following the approval of a works plan being submitted to the Victorian authorities. Unicorn Project InfrastructureThe Unicorn project is located in state forest 20km south of Corryong, a regional centre for north east Victoria with its own airport. It is also close to the Snowy Hydro Scheme which could provide a power source for future development. Existing roads and access tracks in the area will allow initial exploratory drill access to the site with minimal disturbance to the surrounding environment. MolybdenumMolybdenum is a metallic element used principally as an alloying agent in steel, cast iron and superalloys to enhance hardness, strength, toughness and corrosion resistance. Molybdenum usage has doubled in recent years and is expected to increase in demand due to its superior versatility, low toxicity compared to most metals, and because there are few options for its substitution. First use of new Molybdenum:
Currently, 60% of the world’s molybdenum is produced as a by-product of copper mining, with the three largest producers Chile, Bolivia and Canada. It is estimated that a new 15 million tpa mine with a typical mining grade of 600ppm Mo is required per year to meet the increasing world demand. Further information visit International Molybdenum Association - www.imoa.info .
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Figure 1 - Mineralisation Corridorsclick to enlarge
Figure 2 - Geochemical sampling results showing the molybdenum anomaly
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Last updated July 2008 |
