First Atlantic Nickel Expands RPM Zone to 750 Meters in Width with Second Phase 2 Drill Hole: AN-25-07 Intersects 495 Meters of Visible Awaruite Mineralization

Core Insights - First Atlantic Nickel Corp. has reported a significant expansion of visible awaruite nickel-alloy mineralization at the RPM Zone, increasing the mineralized section to 750 meters in width, a ~50% increase from the previous 500-meter width established in Phase 1 [1][4][19] - The company is advancing its Phase 2 drilling program, which has tested 800 meters of north-south strike length and aims to define over 1 kilometer of continuous awaruite mineralization [1][20][21] - Awaruite's unique properties, including its sulfur-free nature and high nickel grade of approximately 76%, position it as a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional nickel ores, eliminating the need for smelting and reducing environmental impacts [1][19][29] Company Developments - The RPM Zone now measures approximately 750 meters in width and 400 meters in length, with mineralization open in all directions, indicating potential for large-scale, bulk-tonnage nickel targets [19][20] - The drilling results from hole AN-25-07 confirmed the continuity of awaruite mineralization and ended in mineralization, suggesting further extensions are possible [6][7] - The company anticipates providing additional updates on the Phase 2 drilling and exploration progress in the coming weeks [21] Industry Context - Awaruite's properties allow for smelter-free magnetic separation, which could strengthen North America's critical minerals supply chain and reduce dependence on foreign nickel processing [29][30] - The U.S. has recognized nickel as a critical mineral essential to economic and national security, highlighting the importance of developing domestic sources like the Atlantic Nickel Project [30]