Lake to begin drilling at Cauchari lithium project by end of September

Lake originally secured the 18 000 ha. Olaroz-Cauchari leases in early 2016, and is the only ASX junior exploration company with a large lease area in a proven, world-class lithium brine province.

Lake will commence drilling at its Cauchari West project with drill locations on the margins of SQM/Lithium Americas project and Orocobre/Advantage Lithium’s project where results include 600 mg/l lithium with high flowrates and 470 mg/l lithium on the immediate lease boundary. Lake expects these known high grade lithium brines to extend into its leases.

A drilling rig has been secured and barring any unforeseen delays, drilling is targeted to commence at the end of next month. Lake is fortunate to have secured a rig given high exploration activity in the area.

Managing Director Stephen Promnitz said: “Lake’s Cauchari lease has all the hallmarks of being another large-scale lithium brine project located in a world-class lithium brine basin. We believe that the same brines as SQM/Lithium Americas and Orocobre/AAL projects extend into our leases.

“Lake applied for these leases in early 2016, before the value of the adjoining brine projects were crystallised. Cauchari West, which has a strike length of 11 km, and is nearly 2000 ha. in size, is an outstanding prospect and we are looking forward to commencing drilling.

“Systematically, we are advancing with the development of our large 100%-owned lithium projects and have lots of optionality in the asset base. Exploration at Kachi is ongoing and interest in the project from battery manufacturers and the lithium supply is high. The drilling of Cauchari is very likely to be a major value event for Lake, and we look forward to keeping shareholders updated on progress.”

Lake’s Chairman and Managing Director recently advanced discussions in China and Japan with major players in the growing lithium supply chain for cathodes used in electric vehicle batteries. Unlike some recent commentary regarding oversupply, the interest level and demand was high. Strong and ongoing interest continues for both project development funding and offtake from major participants.

Read the article online at: https://www.globalminingreview.com/exploration-development/15082018/lake-to-begin-drilling-at-cauchari-lithium-project-by-end-of-september/