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Quantum Identifies Mica as Key Carrier of Critical Elements at NMX East, Quebec
Thenewswire· 2025-09-04 13:40
Core Insights - Quantum Critical Metals Corp. has reported strong correlations between mica content and the enrichment of critical metals such as gallium (Ga), rubidium (Rb), cesium (Cs), lithium (Li), niobium (Nb), tin (Sn), and tantalum (Ta) from the NMX East project in Québec [1][7]. Sample Analysis - Three hand-selected pegmatite core samples were analyzed for their mineral content, with varying mica percentages: Sample 1 (21.2 wt %), Sample 2 (72.7 wt %), and Sample 3 (0.7 wt %) [3][6]. - Sample 2, with the highest mica content, showed significant values: 186 ppm Ga, 959 ppm Li, 320 ppm Nb, 3,220 ppm Rb, 347 ppm Sn, and 71.5 ppm Ta, indicating that higher mica content correlates with higher metal values [6][7]. Mineralogical Studies - Detailed mineralogical studies are being conducted at SGS Lakefield to confirm the association of critical elements with mica, which could simplify the extraction process [2][9]. - The ongoing studies aim to validate preliminary assay results and enhance the understanding of the mineralization process within the pegmatite [9]. Strategic Importance - The NMX East project is 100% owned by Quantum and has been historically explored for lithium, but recent studies focus on gallium extraction feasibility [10]. - The project is strategically located near Power Metallic Mines Inc., which has expanded its land position, highlighting the regional potential for polymetallic exploration [10]. Development Focus - Quantum is prioritizing mineralogical and metallurgical studies to assess the economic viability of metal recovery, aiming to fast-track development in the critical metals sector [10]. - Initial findings suggest that gallium may be recoverable from mica, a non-traditional source, which could enhance domestic supply chains in light of geopolitical factors affecting critical mineral availability [10].