Wedoany.com Report-Oct. 24, Argentina Lithium & Energy has released the first mineral resource estimate (MRE) for its Rincon West lithium brine project in Salta Province, Argentina, marking a significant milestone in the project’s development. The results show measured and indicated resources of 0.15 km³ brine with an average lithium grade of 296 mg/L, corresponding to 238,000 tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE). In addition, an inferred resource of 0.08 km³ brine at 216 mg/L lithium has been identified, equivalent to 64,000 t of LCE.

The MRE encompasses the West Block mining concessions, Villanoveño II and Rinconcita II.

CEO Nikolaos Cacos commented: “This initial resource marks a pivotal step in unlocking the full potential of Rincon West and reinforces Argentina Lithium’s position at the centre of one of the most strategic lithium districts in the world. With Rio Tinto’s world-class Rincon Project as our direct neighbour and a strong offtake partnership with Stellantis, we are uniquely positioned to advance Rincon West rapidly and responsibly. This foundation allows us to leverage both strategic infrastructure and commercial synergies as we move toward the next phase of development.”

Cacos added: “As we advance PEA [Preliminary Economic Study] studies and evaluate advanced extraction technologies, our long-term focus remains crystal clear: to build a scalable, high-value lithium operation that generates sustainable returns for our shareholders.”

The MRE covers the West Block properties, including Villanoveño II and Rinconcita II concessions, totaling 2,931 hectares. The estimate does not include the Paso de Sico concessions in the northern part of Rincon Salar, which add another 3,742.9 ha. Cacos noted: “This initial resource provides a solid foundation on which we intend to expand the resource base. The exploration team will be carefully evaluating drilling below the current mineral resource, where expansion potential has been identified as the current mineral resource is open to depth. Together with our other highly prospective properties at Pocitos, Antofalla, and Incahuasi, our company’s assets create a strong growth pipeline that will allow us to deepen strategic partnerships and accelerate development, potentially positioning Argentina Lithium as a key future supplier to the global EV [electric vehicle] and battery markets.”

The resource estimate was derived from 14 exploration boreholes totaling 4,823.2 meters of diamond drilling, alongside one production well of 470 meters. Drilling campaigns were conducted between 2022 and 2024 by AGV Falcon Drilling SRL in Salta, under guidance from Argentina Lithium’s geologists. Continuous core samples and unaltered formation test samples were collected for porosity studies, while brine samples were obtained using a packer system, with some boreholes also employing bailer and HydraSleeve sampling methods.

Argentina Lithium is focused on developing lithium projects in Argentina to meet growing demand from the global battery and electric vehicle markets. The Rincon West MRE provides a strong foundation for further expansion and positions the company to advance its strategic objectives in one of the world’s most important lithium districts.