First Atlantic Nickel Acquires Ophiolite-X Project Targeting White and Orange Geologic Hydrogen, Carbon Capture, and Critical Minerals in Western Newfoundland

Core Insights - First Atlantic Nickel Corp. has entered into agreements to acquire a 100% interest in 18 mineral licenses covering 500 mineral claims within the Bay of Islands Ophiolite Complex, branded as the "Ophiolite-X" project, which has multi-commodity potential including hydrogen, carbon capture, and various minerals [1][39] Geological and Resource Potential - The Bay of Islands Ophiolite Complex (BOIC) is recognized for its well-preserved ophiolite sequences, with significant geological features that support natural hydrogen generation and carbon capture [2][30] - A study indicates that the BOIC has a theoretical CO₂ storage capacity of 5.1 × 10 billion tonnes, equivalent to over 13 years of global CO₂ emissions based on 2022 data [5][23] - The presence of brucite, formed during serpentinization, is highlighted as the most efficient mineral for CO₂ capture, requiring only approximately 2.5 tonnes of mineral to sequester 1 tonne of CO₂ [5][21] Hydrogen Generation and Exploration - Active serpentinization within the BOIC produces dissolved hydrogen in ultrabasic springs, with conditions conducive to ongoing natural hydrogen production [3][12] - The BOIC is identified as a key area for geological hydrogen exploration, with documented occurrences of strongly alkaline and highly reducing water sources containing dissolved hydrogen [3][30] - Historical chromite occurrences in the BOIC are associated with significant hydrogen discoveries, suggesting potential for economically useful accumulations of hydrogen gas [37][38] Strategic Agreements and Future Plans - The company has entered into three agreements to expand its mineral holdings, involving the issuance of common shares as consideration and subject to net smelter returns royalties [39][40] - The exploration programs will include systematic sampling to evaluate the occurrence and distribution of awaruite, which serves as both a potential nickel-iron resource and an indicator of hydrogen generation potential [29][44]