Durango Reports 107.68 Meters of 38.85 Gpt Gallium, 701 Gpt Rubidium, 24.98 Gpt Cesium, and 3.61 Gpt Thallium from Surface IN Diamond Drilling at Nmx East Critical Metals Project
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DURANGO REPORTS 107.68 METERS OF 38.85 GPT GALLIUM, 701 GPT RUBIDIUM, 24.98 GPT CESIUM, AND
3.61 GPT THALLIUM FROM SURFACE IN DIAMOND DRILLING AT NMX EAST CRITICAL METALS PROJECT
Vancouver, BC / TheNewswire / December 16, 2024 – Durango Resources Inc. (TSX.V: DGO) (Frankfurt: 86A1)
(OTCQB-ATOXF) (“Durango” or the “Company”) is pleased to report that it has re-examined its drill core assays
at the NMX East critical metals project in the James Bay region of Quebec and has discovered elevated and
consistent gallium, rubidium, thallium, and cesium in all four holes. Notably, the Company intersected 107.68
meters of 38.85 grams per tonne (“gpt”) gallium, 701.03 gpt rubidium, 24.98 gpt cesium and 3.61 gpt thallium
from surface in hole 3.
The Company’s maiden 4-hole drill program at NMX East totaled approximately 800 meters and was initiated
to test one of five visually confirmed pegmatite outcrops on the property. The “A” pegmatite target drilled is
central to the property and remains open in all directions. Hole 1 is located approximately 700 meters from
holes 3 and 4 which were drilled from the same drill pad setup. Hole 2 also encountered consistent
mineralization at depth. Multiple anomalous critical and rare earth elements were intersected. A drill map
(Figure 1) and summary table for each drill hole with notable intervals are provided below (Tables 1 to 4). The
full table of results is available here: https://durangoresourcesinc.com/projects/nmx-east-quebec/
Fig. 1 NMX East Critical Metals Project Drill Map
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Summary of All Holes - NMX East Critical Metals Project
Assayed Intervals with average Ga, Rb, Cs, Tl (grams per tonne - gpt)
NOTE – all drillholes were angled - hole depths are not true depths
Table 1. HOLE 1
Depth Width Gallium (gpt)
Rubidium
(gpt)
Cesium
(gpt)
Thallium
(gpt)
0 to 33.67m 33.68m
NOT ASSAYED
33.68 to 35.51m 1.83m 22.33 404.00 38.37 2.40
35.52 to 83.99m 48.47m NOT ASSAYED
84 to 94.81m 10.81m 33.10 491.00 16.29 2.64
94.82 to 97.16m 2.34m NOT ASSAYED
97.17 to 111.21m 14.04m 32.27 626.67 23.58 3.36
111.22 to 114.86m 3.64m NOT ASSAYED
114.87 to 118.76m 3.89m 32.00 416.50 26.00 23.33
118.77 to 130.77m 12.00m NOT ASSAYED
130.78 to 131.58m 0.80m 16.00 88.00 3.30 0.50
131.59 to 137.99m 6.40m NOT ASSAYED
138 to 147.64m 9.40m 15.71 64.86 4.04 0.34
147.65 to 207m 59.35m NOT ASSAYED
Hole Total Depth 207m
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Table 2. HOLE 2
Depth Width
Galliu
m (gpt)
Rubidium
(gpt)
Cesium
(gpt)
Thallium
(gpt)
0 to 214.82m 214.82m
NOT ASSAYED
214.83 to 235.72m 20.89m 27.25 355.00 30.25 2.26
235.73 to 259.5m 23.77m
NOT ASSAYED
259.6 to 264.87m 5.27m 26.60 684.00 29.3 3.66
264.88 to 267.62m 2.74m NOT ASSAYED
267.63 to 274.83m 7.20m 28.75 613.00 23.63 3.34
274.84 to 278.60m 3.76m NOT ASSAYED
278.61 to 284.36m 5.64m 27.50 650.00 21.13 3.52
284.37 to 291.90m 7.53m
NOT ASSAYED
291.91 to 297.69 5.78m 27.80 546.80 17.26 2.90
297.70 to 300m 2.30m NOT ASSAYED
Hole total depth 300m
Table 3. HOLE 3
Depth Width
Gallium
(gpt)
Rubidium
(gpt)
Cesium
(gpt)
Thallium
(gpt)
0 to 8.91m 8.91m
NOT ASSAYED
8.92-116.5m 107.58m 38.85 701.03 25.70 3.61
116.6 to 128.50m 11.90m
NOT ASSAYED
128.51 to 133.82m 5.31m 28.40 484.40 28.46 2.48
133.83 to 140.28m 6.45m
NOT ASSAYED
140.29 to 151.74m 11.45m 33.09 469.27 21.56 2.41
151.75 to 201.00m 49.25m
NOT ASSAYED
Hole Total Depth 201m
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Table 4. HOLE 4
Depth Width
Gallium
(gpt)
Rubidium
(gpt)
Cesium
(gpt)
Thallium
(gpt)
0 to 6.57 6.57m
NOT ASSAYED
6.58 to 27.50m 20.92m 18.19 386.48 33.75 7.45
27.6 to 102m 74.40m
NOT ASSAYED
Hole Total Depth 102m
The Company prioritized assaying the pegmatite drill core as the drill program was focused on lithium. Lithium
and critical & strategic minerals were encountered in pegmatite, diorite and metabasite rock types and all rock
types equally demonstrated consistent mineralization. The Company theorizes this could be a halo effect from
the pegmatites, but questions remain. As such, the Company believes significant intervals in various holes now
warrant further review and assay. The table of results summarizes the intervals and indicates the sections that
were assayed and where un-assayed intervals remain.
The drill results suggest further investigation of all known and potentially more unknown pegmatite
occurrences on the property are warranted. This may include revisiting all existing historical and geophysical
data, as well as leveraging the Company’s new AI exploration technology to define and refine the Company’s
understanding of this critical metal bearing property. A summary of intended future work for NMX is outlined
below.
Assay QA/QC
Drill core was collected from the diamond drill and placed in sealed core trays for transport to the core logging
and cutting facility. The core was then logged, and samples were selected based on lithology, in intervals of up
to 1.0 m and cut in half length wise with a diamond saw. Samples were then bagged in plastic bags and shipped
to Activation Laboratories in Ancaster Ontario for multi-element analysis. QA/QC samples were included in the
shipment and comprised of certified reference material standards, blank material and requests for duplicate
analysis. All QAQC samples were reviewed by project geologist Melanie Mackay PGeo.
Future Work Plans for the NMX East Critical Metals Project
● Drill core review - core is currently in storage and accessible anytime.
● Assay of untested sections or drill core from inaugural drill program.
● Minerology - XRD and electron microprobe.
● Metallurgical testing of drill core.
● Geophysics review.
● AI exploration and interpretation of geophysical anomalies for potentially unknown targets as well as
further definition of known targets.
● Geophysical mapping of all pegmatite targets.
● Follow up drilling on the Pegmatite ”A” area.
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Geopolitical Developments
On December 3rd, 2024, China announced an immediate ban on the export of multiple critical metals to the
United States. (see article China bans export of critical minerals to US as trade tensions escalate | Reuters )
China currently produces approximately 98% of the world’s raw gallium so this ban is expected to have
significant implications for global supply and pricing of this and other critical metals.
Given this recent ban surrounding gallium, the Company revisited the NMX East project and has reconsidered
these drill results over the past several days. The Company believes this geopolitical news underscores the
urgency for both Canada, the United States and the West collectively, to discover, develop, and protect viable
domestic sources of these critical metals in the near term. Critical metals fuel many strategic, defense and
future technology sensitive applications, and Durango intends to contribute a t the forefront of helping fulfill
this important need.
For example, the Company is taking actionable movements to help support Western demand for these minerals
by fast tracking property analysis with the aid of artificial intelligence (“AI”). This work is already helping unlock
new areas of interest in the portfolio, new hypotheses, and potential drill target areas.
Marcy Kiesman, President of Durango stated, “Until recently we had not entertained the po tential of the
gallium space . However, due to the increase in geopolitical tensions and the escalation of trade wars
surrounding the world’s critical metals , Durango is now prioritizing the development of critical mineral
resources and will continue reviewing its properties for these essential materials. The importance of securing
a domestic supply of these metals is top priority. The Company is looking to fast track the development of our
current projects and expand our portfolio as appropriate.”
NMX East Gallium Comparable
The Cordero Deposit in Nevada is possibly the only primary gallium project with a well- defined resource (15
Mt at 47.7 ppm gallium). Gallium mineralization here is associated with low -sulfidation epithermal silver -
mercury deposits, with Ga hosted in alunite (KAl(SO4)2(OH)6) and other aluminous phosphate minerals.
Source: https://www.geologyforinvestors.com/gallium-the-unicorn-of-critical-mineral-deposits/
About Gallium
Gallium, a critical component in semiconductors, telecommunications, renewable energy sectors and may also
be considered as a possible heat exchange medium in nuclear reactors. Canada and the USA rely on gallium for
telecommunications, defense, and green energy. Gallium is also used in semiconductors, AI circuitry, radar and
microchips and could be more critical than previously realized.
Source:https://www.metaltechnews.com/story/2022/09/12/critical-minerals-alliances-2022/gallium-may-be-
more-critical-than-realized/1087.html
Gallium Market Size and Growth:
1. Market Size
In 2023, global high-purity gallium production was estimated at 320 tonnes, with total primary production
capacity reaching 1,100 tonnes per year. Demand for gallium is projected to grow due to its role in
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semiconductors, 5G technology, and renewable energy applications.
2. Key Applications:
● Semiconductors: Gallium arsenide (GaAs) and gallium nitride (GaN) are critical in chips for
smartphones, satellite communications, and defense systems.
● Renewable Energy: GaN is used in solar cells and LEDs.
● Emerging Technologies: Gallium is a key component in next-generation technologies such as quantum
computing, 5G networks, and advanced radars.
3. Geopolitical Considerations:
China has imposed export controls on gallium, exacerbating supply chain challenges for the U.S. and its allies.
These restrictions are part of a broader trade conflict over critical technologies. Countries like the USA are
ramping up efforts to develop domestic gallium sources and processing capabilities to reduce reliance on China.
Sources:
https://pubs.usgs.gov/periodicals/mcs2024/mcs2024-gallium.pdf
https://www.usgs.gov/news/national-news-release/usgs-critical-minerals-study-bans-gallium-and-
germanium-exports-could
https://www.metaltechnews.com/story/2024/11/20/tech-metals/tech-metals-bans-could-cost-us-
billions/2040.html
About Rubidium
Today most rubidium is obtained as a byproduct of lithium and since it is easily ionized it can be used to propel
spacecraft engines (ion). Rubidium’s critical role in emerging technologies and its limited supply make it a
valuable strategic resource.
Rubidium Market Size, Growth Outlook, and Applications
1. Market Size and Growth:
Rubidium is a niche market, with an estimated global annual consumption of less than 2,000 kilograms,
primarily for high-tech applications. Prices for high-purity rubidium compounds are significant, often exceeding
$1 million per tonne for rubidium oxide, driven by its rarity and specialized uses.
2. Applications:
● Specialty Glass: Used in fiber optics and night-vision technology.
● Telecommunications: Serves as an atomic frequency standard in GPS systems.
● Quantum Computing: Ultra-cold rubidium atoms play a key role in quantum research.
● Batteries: Potential use in sodium-ion batteries, an emerging alternative to lithium-ion technology.
3. Growth Drivers:
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Advances in quantum computing and demand for robust, low-temperature battery technologies are expected
to boost rubidium consumption. The inclusion of rubidium on critical minerals lists highlights its strategic
importance, especially as global reliance on China’s supply raises supply chain concerns.
4. Geopolitical Factors:
China’s dominance in rubidium production and recent export restrictions have prompted countries like the U.S.
and Australia to accelerate exploration and development of domestic resources.
Sources:
https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/rubidium-market
https://www.imarcgroup.com/rubidium-market
https://www.marketresearch.com/OG-Analysis-v3922/Rubidium-Outlook-Size-Shares-Data-36046807/
About Thallium
Thallium is a critical element and is used for semiconductors, radiation detection equipment, temperature
measurements, MRI, and electric power generation and transmission Thallium Statistics and Information |
U.S. Geological Survey . The average crustal abundance of thallium worldwide is 0.001ppm which makes it
extremely rare and increasingly in demand.
Thallium Market Size and Growth Outlook
1. Market Size:
Global production of thallium was approximately 10 tonnes (10,000 kilograms) in 2023, reflecting its status as
a niche critical metal. Thallium prices remain high due to limited supply and demand in specialized markets,
ranging from $7,600 to $9,400 per kilogram depending on purity and form.
2. Growth Drivers:
● Demand in Advanced Technologies:
● Used in gamma radiation detectors, infrared optics, and acousto-optical filters.
● Plays a role in research for high-temperature superconductors and optoelectronics.
● Medical Applications:
● Radioactive thallium isotopes are used in cardiovascular imaging and cancer treatment.
● Critical Metal Designation:
● Thallium’s designation as a critical material by many nations underscores its strategic importance.
Applications for Thallium
● Electronics: Used in semiconductors, photoelectric cells, and superconducting materials.
● Medical Imaging: Thallium isotopes are crucial for nuclear medicine and diagnostic imaging.
● Specialized Glass: Enhances the refractive index of optical glass for advanced lenses.
● Radiation Detection: A key component in gamma-ray scintillators for nuclear monitoring
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Melanie Mackay, PGeo, EGBC (Engineers and Geoscientists British Columbia) 35256, APEGA (Association of
Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta 305012), is a director and qualified person for Durango
and approves the technical content of this news release.
Sources:
https://winmarketresearch.com/home/goods/detail/id/2943804.html
https://reports.valuates.com/market-reports/QYRE-Auto-30R11864/global-thallium
https://www.marketintelligencedata.com/reports/8705231/global-thallium-market-growth-2024-2030
About Durango
Durango is a natural resources company engaged in the acquisition and exploration of mineral properties
in Canada. The Company’s holdings currently include a 100% interest in a strategically located group of
properties in the Babine Copper -Gold Porphyry District, British Columbia, claims near the Troilus Gold
Camp, claims in the Nemaska Camp known for lithium, other critical metals, and high -grade polymetallic
nickel copper PGM, as well as claims in the Windfall Lake Gold Camp of Québec.
For further information on Durango, please visit www.durangoresourcesinc.com and www.sedar.com.
Marcy Kiesman, CEO
Telephone: 604.428.2900 or 604.339.2243
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.durangoresourcesinc.com
Forward-Looking Statements
T
his news release contains “forward-l
ooking information or statements” within the meaning of applicable
securities laws, which may include, without limitation, statements that address the upcoming work
programs, and other statements relating to the business, financial and technical prospects of the Company.
All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical facts, that address events or
developments that the Company expects to occur, are forward-looking statements. Although the Company
believes the expectations expressed in such forward -looking statements are based on reasonable
assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ
materially from those in the forward-looking statements.
S
uch forward-looking information reflects the Company’s views with respect to future events and is subject
to risks, uncertainties and assumptions, including those filed under the Company’s profile on SEDAR
at www.sedar.com. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward
looking statements include, but are not limited to, continued availability of capital and financing and
general economic, market or business conditions. The Company does not undertake to update forward -
lo
oking statements or forward
-lo
oking information, except as required by law.
Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies
of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.