QIMC Expands Phase 1 Winter Hydrogen Drilling Program in Nova Scotia to Over 5,000 Metres Following New INRS Geophysical Advances

Core Insights - Québec Innovative Materials Corp. (QIMC) is expanding its Phase 1 winter natural hydrogen drilling program in Nova Scotia to over 5,000 metres, marking its largest hydrogen-focused drill program to date [1][3] - The expansion is supported by significant geophysical advances from the Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS), which have refined the structural interpretation of the Advocate–Cumberland Basin and identified new priority drill targets [2][3] Drilling Program Expansion - The Phase 1 drilling program will now exceed 5,000 metres, reflecting QIMC's commitment to advancing natural hydrogen exploration [1][3] - The integration of gravimetry, tomography, and LiDAR by INRS has enhanced confidence in the subsurface model, allowing for an optimized drilling strategy [2][3] Conference Participation - QIMC will attend the Reuters Energy Live Conference in Houston on December 8th and 9th, showcasing its technical leadership in natural hydrogen exploration [4] - The company's presence at the conference aims to engage with international industry participants and highlight its multi-jurisdiction natural hydrogen portfolio [4] Sale of River Valley Silica Project - QIMC has executed a definitive agreement to sell its 100% interest in the River Valley Silica Project to Sila Mining Corp., while retaining ownership of its Charlevoix Silica Project [5][6] - The sale includes receiving 6 million common shares of Sila Mining Corp., cash consideration of up to C$500,000, and a 2% gross-sales royalty on silica products produced from the project [6][7] Strategic Context of River Valley Project - The River Valley asset is positioned to become a foundational North American supplier of high-purity silica (HPQ), critical for various industries [9] - Historical results indicate high-grade quartz averaging 98.74% SiO₂, suitable for cost-effective upgrading into HPQ and ultra-HPQ products [9][11] Future Plans for River Valley - Sila plans to execute a staged 12-hole drilling program to establish mineralized continuity and identify expansion zones over the next 12-18 months [10][11] - The strategy includes engaging partners in semiconductor, solar, battery, and advanced materials sectors to advance River Valley as a cornerstone critical-minerals asset [11]