Geophysical Survey Targets Resource Expansion at Promising Copper Asset
Solstice Minerals (ASX: SLS) has commenced an Induced Polarisation (IP) geophysical survey at its 100%-owned Nanadie Well Copper-Gold Deposit, strategically positioning the company to expand its existing mineral resource through targeted exploration. This development represents a significant step in the company's strategy to capitalise on growing global copper demand.
The Nanadie project currently hosts an Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) of 40.4 million tonnes at 0.4% copper and 0.1g/t gold, containing 162,000 tonnes of copper and 130,000 ounces of gold. With the copper market projected to face supply constraints amid rising demand from renewable energy and electric vehicle sectors, Solstice's focus on expanding this resource is timely.
"Western Australian copper-gold growth assets of scale in a good operational location and underpinned by granted Mining Lease tenure are rare beasts," said Nick Castleden, Solstice's CEO and Managing Director. "Copper continues to have a favourable long-term supply-demand outlook, and we are confident that significant value can be created at Nanadie through timely Mineral Resource expansion drilling."
IP Survey: Targeting High-Priority Extension Zones
The current IP survey specifically targets the northern and southern extensions of the Nanadie deposit, where previous drilling has been sparse but promising. Notably, the mineralised system remains open in multiple directions, presenting substantial growth potential:
- The survey is designed to detect disseminated and sulphide veinlet style chalcopyrite mineralisation
- Historical IP surveys identified strong responses coincident with known mineralisation
- New technology allows for deeper exploration to approximately 400m vertical depth (double the previous limit)
- Results will help prioritise targets for a planned Q3 2025 RC drilling program
The technical approach is well-suited to Nanadie's geological setting, which features near-surface mineralisation below a shallow weathering profile. Historical drilling has intercepted significant mineralisation, including impressive intervals such as:
Drill Hole | Intercept Length | Copper Grade | Gold Grade |
---|---|---|---|
NWD2003 | 107.8m | 0.91% Cu | 0.24g/t Au |
NWD2004 | 76m | 0.85% Cu | 0.39g/t Au |
NWD2101 | 122.3m | 0.61% Cu | 0.15g/t Au |
NRC05020 | 81m | 0.79% Cu | 0.23g/t Au |
These results highlight the deposit's potential to deliver both scale and grade—a compelling combination for investors seeking exposure to copper assets.
Understanding Induced Polarisation: A Key Exploration Tool
Induced Polarisation (IP) surveys represent one of the most effective geophysical methods for identifying sulphide mineralisation like that found at Nanadie. For investors new to resource exploration, understanding this technique provides valuable context:
IP surveying works by measuring how the ground stores electrical charge, similar to a capacitor. When electrical current is applied to the ground and then switched off, minerals like copper sulphides (chalcopyrite) hold this charge momentarily before dissipating—creating a measurable "chargeability" response that helps identify mineralised zones that may contain economic metals.
This technique is particularly effective for:
- Detecting disseminated sulphide deposits that might be missed by other methods
- Mapping mineralisation extensions beyond known resources
- Identifying drill targets with higher probability of success
- Reducing exploration costs by focusing drilling on high-priority areas
For Nanadie specifically, the copper mineralisation occurs primarily as chalcopyrite (a copper-iron sulphide mineral), making it an ideal target for IP surveying. The previous IP survey's strong correlation with known mineralisation validates this approach for the extension areas.
Project Timeline and Next Steps
Solstice has outlined a clear progression path for the Nanadie project:
- Current Phase (Q3 2025): Complete IP survey and analyse results
- Q3 2025: Initiate maiden RC drilling program based on IP findings
- Q4 2025 (Contingent): Begin systematic RC drilling campaign targeting significant MRE increase
- 2026 and beyond: Resource expansion and development studies
This methodical approach allows the company to minimise risk while systematically building value at Nanadie. The project benefits from existing infrastructure, including a granted Mining Lease, which significantly reduces development timeline risks common in earlier-stage projects.
Investment Thesis: Positioning in the Global Copper Market
Solstice Minerals presents a compelling investment case based on several key factors:
Strong Copper-Gold Asset Foundation
- Existing 40.4Mt resource with significant expansion potential
- 90% of the resource is in fresh rock below 40m depth
- Higher-grade zones identified within the broader resource
- Mineralised system is 150m wide by 900m long and open in multiple directions
Strategic Asset Location
- Located in mining-friendly Western Australia
- Approximately 100km northwest of Sandstone
- Secured by 130km² of granted tenure including Mining Lease
- Regional infrastructure advantages
Robust Financial Position
- $13.6 million cash as of March 31, 2025
- Additional $2.13 million recently raised through strategic placement
- Well-funded to execute planned exploration programs
- No immediate capital raising pressure
Diversified Project Portfolio
The company maintains an active gold exploration program across its 1,650km² Yarri Project near Kalgoorlie, demonstrating a balanced approach to resource development. Recent successful drilling at the Bluetooth and Statesman Well gold prospects provides additional growth potential beyond the Nanadie copper asset.
Asset | Commodity | Stage | Key Metrics |
---|---|---|---|
Nanadie | Copper-Gold | Resource Development | 40.4Mt @ 0.4% Cu, 0.1g/t Au |
Yarri Project | Gold | Exploration | 1,650km² land package |
Bluetooth/Statesman | Gold | Advanced Exploration | Recent successful RC drilling |
Why Investors Should Follow Solstice Minerals
Solstice Minerals represents an opportunity to gain exposure to copper at a strategic time in the market cycle:
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Established Resource with Growth Potential: Unlike early-stage explorers, Solstice already has a significant copper-gold resource that forms the foundation for growth.
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Clear Catalyst Timeline: With the IP survey underway and drilling planned for Q3 2025, investors can expect regular news flow and potential value-creating milestones.
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Commodity Exposure at the Right Time: The company provides leveraged exposure to copper, a metal facing supply constraints while demand increases from renewable energy adoption and grid infrastructure expansion.
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Strong Balance Sheet: With $15.7 million in cash, Solstice can execute its plans without near-term dilution concerns.
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Experienced Management: The company's approach demonstrates geological understanding and methodical resource development strategy.
For investors seeking copper exposure outside of major producers, Solstice offers a compelling mid-tier opportunity with significant upside potential if resource expansion efforts prove successful. With multiple avenues for value creation across both its copper and gold assets, the company is well-positioned to capitalise on favourable market conditions for both metals.
Ready to Gain Exposure to the Next Copper Opportunity?
Solstice Minerals presents a compelling investment case with its growing Nanadie Well Copper-Gold Deposit, strong cash position of $15.7 million, and clear development pathway. As global copper demand continues to surge amidst supply constraints, now may be the perfect time to consider this ASX-listed opportunity. To learn more about Solstice Minerals' copper growth strategy and investment potential, visit the company's website for detailed investor information and latest announcements.