Nio Strategic Metals Inc. has completed a geo-structural interpretation of a high-resolution heliborne magnetic and radiometric survey over its 100%-owned Oka property in Quebec, mapping the three-dimensional architecture of the carbonatite complex to target rare earth element and niobium mineralization.

The 921 line-kilometre survey covered the North and South Rings of the carbonatite and surrounding Grenvillian rocks. Geophysical interpretation by Senior Geophysicist Jean David and Senior Geologist Ali Ben Ayad defined three major shear corridors and five major magmatic dyke structures within the North Ring, establishing that historical rare earth and niobium occurrences correlate with distinct magnetic and radiometric anomalies.

To test these targets, the technical team has recommended a nine-hole reconnaissance diamond drilling program totaling approximately 4,460 metres in the North Ring. Nio is also working with local stakeholders and GHD Environnement to obtain an authorization for impact-causing exploration work from the Quebec Ministry of Natural Resources and Forests.

“For seventy years, Oka was drilled for niobium without anyone being able to see the whole system at once. This survey gives us that picture. The dykes that carry the niobium are the same structures the historical work tells us carry the rare earths, and we can now follow them at depth. This survey, together with the IGS metallurgical study and ongoing test work, will help better understand the REE potential of the property and develop safer processes regarding local environment.”

— Bruno Dumais, President and Chief Operating Officer

Read the full announcement: Heliborne Magnetic Survey Reveals Internal Architecture of the Oka Carbonatite