Vior cuts channel samples returning high titanium values in rutile-rich massive ilmenite on the Big Island Lake project
The Big Island Lake showing lies as an east-west oriented massive ilmenite horizon outcropping sporadically over a strike length of at least 280 meters. A first field visit confirmed the presence of rutile associated to ilmenite and selected rock sampling returned titanium (TiO2) between 44.2% and 48.4%. During a second field visit four channels totaling 45.1 meters were sampled over the mineralized horizon in order to better document the distribution of the rutile within the Big Island Lake massive ilmenite showing (see figure on website, www.vior.ca). The weighted average titanium and iron values for each channel are presented in the table below:
From (m) | To (m) | Length (m) | TiO2 (%) | Fe2O3 (%) | |
Channel 1 | 1.4 | 9.4 | 8.0 | 39.2 | 51.0 |
Channel 2* | 0 | 9.0 | 8.6 | 36.8 | 53.7 |
Channel 3 | 0 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 33.3 | 49.5 |
10.8 | 18.5 | 7.7 | 41.6 | 51.3 | |
Channel 4a | 0 | 8.3 | 8.3 | 35.1 | 49.8 |
Channel 4b | 0 | 2.2 | 2.2 | 45.2 | 49.2 |
*a section of 0.4 meter could not be sampled on the outcrop
Rutile mineralization is present in every channel over a thickness varying from 1 to 6 meters with concentration ranging from traces to locally 15%. Rutile is systematically associated to massive ilmenite and disseminated rutile crystals can also be observed in anorthosite blocks and fragments trapped within the rutile-rich massive ilmenite mineralization.
Generally the presence of rutile in the ilmenite increases the TiO2 content beyond 40% whereas the massive ilmenite without rutile shows a TiO2 content varying from 30% to 39%. Historically, rock samples collected on other massive ilmenite showings on the project returned some TiO2 values over 40% which could suggest the presence of rutile. A geological reconnaissance including a systematic sampling of titaniferous showings is planned for summer 2017 on the project.
In the industry, most of rutile and ilmenite is processed into non-toxic white titanium dioxide pigment for use in the manufacture of paints, plastics, paper, textiles, cosmetics and ceramics. Rutile is also used to produce titanium metal for use in aircraft, spacecraft, surgical implants, motor vehicles and desalination plants (source: Geoscience Australia website).
About Vior
Vior's strategy is to generate, explore and develop quality projects in the best proven and accessible mining areas. Through the years, Vior's management and technical team has demonstrated its ability to discover numerous gold deposits and mineral prospects.
This press release was prepared by Mr. Marc L'Heureux, P.Geo. who is the Company's Qualified Person.
Web site: www.vior.ca
SEDAR: Société d'exploration minière Vior Inc.
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its regulation services provided (as that term is defined in the Policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Contact
Claude St-Jacques
President
418-692-2678
cstjacques@vior.ca
Marc L'Heureux
Vice-president Exploration
450-746-1771
mlheureux@vior.ca