QEM’s new drilling program will build on sound knowledge gained in previous drilling of Julia Creek’s vast resource potential at 12 new locations.

On the back of an oversubscribed $2.72m placement QEM (ASX:QEM) has started resource drilling  across the 249km2 Julia Creek vanadium project in northwest Queensland.

Host to a resource of 2,850Mt with an average V205 content of 0.31%, QEM says the multipurpose drilling campaign will also focus on groundwater bore installation, geotechnical analysis and waste characterisation and will comprise 12 exploration holes – two of which will be converted to groundwater monitoring bores.

Another four holes will be used for geotechnical analysis while the overburden and core samples from a range of holes will be collected to begin waste characterisation analysis, as well as provide fresh core for further pilot plant testing and metallurgical test work.

 

Crucial step forward in overarching battery goal

The Julia Creek vanadium project is a unique world-class resource with the potential to utilise and deliver sustainable energy solutions through the production of energy fuels and vanadium pentoxide – the one element used in the electrolyte of vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFBs).

VRFBs have emerged as a promising solution for grid services due to their long lifecycle potential and high energy capacity, which can provide extended discharge times.

Given the ability to scale power and energy of a system independently, VRFB technology offers a long-term solution for off-grid power systems and micro-grids.

With an overarching goal to mine and process V2O5 for use in VRFBS, QEM managing director Gavin Loyden says the 2023 drilling campaign represents a crucial step forward in the development of the Julia Creek Project.

 

 

This article was developed in collaboration with QEM, a Stockhead advertiser at the time of publishing.

 

This article does not constitute financial product advice. You should consider obtaining independent advice before making any financial decisions.

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