Stillwater Critical Minerals Corp. Advances Exploration Efforts with Groundbreaking Geophysical Survey and 3D Geologic Modeling

Vancouver, BC – October 16, 2024 – Stillwater Critical Minerals Corp. (TSXV:PGE)(OTCQB:PGEZF)(FSE:J0G) has made significant strides in its exploration efforts at the Stillwater West Ni-PGE-Cu-Co + Au project in Montana. The completion of a comprehensive property-wide geophysical airborne survey and the development of a detailed 3D geologic model of the lower Stillwater Igneous Complex mark pivotal milestones for the company. This new data is expected to enhance the project’s advancement, including upcoming drill campaigns and the expansion of mineral resources.

Highlights of the Recent Developments

The recent geophysical surveys, conducted in September 2024, have provided the first detailed 3D geologic model of the lower Stillwater Igneous Complex. This model reveals the continuity of mineralization across a 9.5-kilometer stretch of the complex, which is home to the company’s current resources spread across five deposits at the Stillwater West project. Historically, the continuity of mineralization has been primarily demonstrated by Sibanye-Stillwater’s J-M Reef deposit, a high-grade PGE-bearing nickel-copper sulphide deposit that spans over 40 kilometers and is recognized as one of the highest-grade palladium-platinum mines globally.

Currently, Stillwater Critical Minerals holds resources amounting to 1.6 billion pounds of nickel, copper, and cobalt, alongside 3.8 million ounces of palladium, platinum, rhodium, and gold. These resources are located within five deposits that remain open for expansion along trend and at depth, situated in the heart of the 61-square-kilometer Stillwater West project, which shares a 32-kilometer strike with Sibanye-Stillwater.

Insights from Leadership

Michael Rowley, President and CEO of Stillwater, expressed enthusiasm about the recent advancements, stating, "The team’s work this year regarding both the airborne survey and also the detailed geologic model confirm the expansion potential we see in several possible mining scenarios at Stillwater West." He emphasized the importance of leveraging a substantial database, which includes approximately 40,000 meters of drilling, to create the first-ever geologic model of the lower part of this renowned mining district.

Rowley also highlighted the strategic backing from Glencore plc and the in-house expertise derived from similar geological contexts in South Africa’s Bushveld Igneous Complex. This positioning is crucial as the U.S. seeks to reduce its reliance on imports of critical minerals.

Airborne Geophysical Survey: A Comprehensive Approach

The property-wide airborne geophysical survey, executed by Expert Geophysics Ltd., encompassed approximately 1,170 line-kilometers. The survey was designed in collaboration with Glencore plc and included test surveys over the Chrome Mountain resource area. The decision to utilize the MobileMTm magneto-telluric (MMT) system was based on its ability to distinguish and define multiple conductive targets at greater depths compared to previous methods.

Following the survey, Stillwater is now refining multiple large-scale priority conductive drill targets across the 12-kilometer main resource area. The preliminary results from the 2024 survey will be further analyzed, with detailed findings expected in subsequent announcements.

The Significance of the 3D Geologic Model

The newly developed 3D geologic model is a groundbreaking achievement for Stillwater Critical Minerals. It integrates over 40,000 meters of drilling data, recent mapping, and geophysical surveys, effectively connecting the east and west ends of this world-class mining district. The model provides a roadmap for resource expansion and project advancement, particularly focusing on the lower Stillwater Igneous Complex.

The model highlights the highly prospective Peridotite Zone, which hosts all deposits from the January 2023 Mineral Resource Estimate. It showcases the untested expansion potential in all directions, including between deposits, down dip, and along strike. Strong correlations between the Peridotite Zone, geophysical anomalies, and geochemical soil anomalies further underscore the exceptional expansion potential of the Stillwater West project.

Future Directions and Government Funding

Stillwater Critical Minerals is actively pursuing additional U.S. government funding, having already secured USD 2.75 million from the Department of Energy through collaborations with Cornell University and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. The company has been in partnership with the U.S. Geological Survey for over six years, reflecting a long-standing interest in the Stillwater Igneous Complex.

Parallels with South Africa’s Bushveld Complex

The geological similarities between the Stillwater Igneous Complex and South Africa’s Bushveld Igneous Complex are noteworthy. Developments at Stillwater have often mirrored those in the Bushveld, particularly in the discovery of high-grade deposits. The Platreef deposits in the Bushveld, known for their bulk mining techniques and high battery metal content, provide a compelling comparison for Stillwater’s exploration efforts.

Upcoming Events

Michael Rowley will be presenting at several upcoming events, including the Red Cloud Fall Mining Showcase in Toronto, the Commodities Global Expo in Fort Lauderdale, and the Precious Metals Summit in Zurich. These events will provide opportunities for investors and stakeholders to engage with the company and learn more about its ongoing initiatives.

Conclusion

Stillwater Critical Minerals Corp. is poised for significant advancements in its exploration efforts at the Stillwater West project. With the completion of a comprehensive airborne survey and the development of a detailed 3D geologic model, the company is well-positioned to expand its mineral resources and explore new mining scenarios. As the U.S. continues to seek independence in critical mineral supply, Stillwater’s strategic initiatives and robust resource inventory make it a key player in the industry.

For further information, please contact:
Michael Rowley, President, CEO & Director – Stillwater Critical Minerals
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (604) 357 4790
Web: criticalminerals.com

Disclaimer: This article contains forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those projected. Investors should review annual filings available at www.sedar.com.