200% Increase, Lithium Resource Estimate,Portugal | RNS | Ticker

200% Increase, Lithium Resource Estimate,Portugal

RNS Announcement

RNS Number : 8468F

Savannah Resources PLC

26 February 2018

Savannah Resources Plc

200% Increase in Lithium Mineral Resource Estimate to 9.1Mt and Significant Exploration Target at Mina do Barroso Lithium Project, Portugal

Savannah Resources plc (AIM: SAV and SWB: SAV) ('Savannah' or 'the Company'), the AIM quoted resource development company, is pleased to announce a revised JORC 2012-Compliant Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate and an initial Exploration Target for the Mina do Barroso Lithium Project ('Mina do Barroso' or the 'Project'), located in northern Portugal (Figure 1). To view the press release with the illustrative maps and diagrams please use the following link:

http://www.rns-pdf.londonstockexchange.com/rns/8468F_-2018-2-23.pdf

Overview

· ~200% increase in Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate to 9.1Mt at 1.03% Li₂O containing 94,100t of Li₂O using a 0.5% Li₂O cut-off grade

Deposit	Tonnes (Mt)	Li₂O%	Li₂O Tonnes
Reservatorio	3.2	1.00	32,000
Grandao	5.5	1.04	56,500
NOA	0.5	1.23	5,600
Total	9.1	1.03	94,100

· Mineral Resource Estimate covers three of at least eight known pegmatites on the Mina do Barroso Mining Lease

· Further drilling is now underway utilising both Reverse Circulation (RC) and diamond drill rigs, targeting both down dip and strike extensions of currently defined Mineral Resource Estimate

· Further Mineral Resource Estimate updates are expected during 2018 as the drill programme advances - Grandao resource is based on the first 40 holes drilled only (of the 61 drilled to date)

· Savannah remains on track to make a development decision by the end of the year

· In addition, an initial Exploration Target* for the Grandao and Reservatorio deposits of 8-12Mt at 1.0% to 1.2% Li₂O has been defined. This gives a project target (including Mineral Resources) of 17-21Mt at 1.0-1.2% Li₂O.

*Cautionary Statement: The potential quantity and grade of the Exploration Targets is conceptual in nature, there has been insufficient exploration work to estimate a mineral resource and it is uncertain if further exploration will result in defining a mineral resource.

Savannah's CEO, David Archer said: "The Mineral Resource Estimate defined from our 2017 drill programme supports our belief that Mina do Barroso is one of Europe's most promising lithium projects. Whilst we are delighted with the results to-date, the Exploration Target underscores the potential to increase the aggregate Mineral Resource Estimate over the coming months, especially as we now have two drilling rigs on site.

"This potential is matched by excellent first pass metallurgical test results with conventional processes, the spodumene dominant nature of the deposits, open-cut potential, access to excellent infrastructure including roads and ports, and the premier nature of the jurisdiction.

"Looking ahead, we are progressing with more detailed, second pass metallurgical test work and hope to shortly commission a Scoping Study to lead into a Definitive Feasibility Study later this year. We believe that we are moving towards defining a project that will sustain one of Europe's most significant, long-term, lithium mining operations."

Figure 1. Mina do Barroso Project Summary Map showing prospects and drilling completed to date - See PDF

Mineral Resource Estimate

A Mineral Resource Estimate for the Grandao and NOA Lithium Deposits has been completed by Payne Geological Services Pty Ltd, an external and independent mining consultancy - http://www.paynegeo.com.au/paul-payne. The Deposits form part of Savannah's Mina do Barroso Lithium Project, located in northern Portugal.

The Grandao Deposit comprises two separate pegmatite intrusions. The upper part of the Deposit occurs within a broad, flat-lying pegmatite body with a typical thickness of 20m-40m. The lower portion appears to be a steep dipping dyke, which is 15m-20m in true width. The geometry of the lower zone is not clear due to the current sparse drilling in this portion of the Deposit, where only three holes drilled to the depths to intersect the zone. The overall Grandao Mineral Resource Estimate is based on results from 40 RC drill holes completed by Savannah in 2017. Both pegmatite zones remain open along strike (Figure 2-3).

Figure 2. Grandao Resource Model - See PDF

Figure 3. Cross Section through Grandao Resource Model - See PDF

At the NOA Deposit, mineralisation is hosted in a steep dipping, NW trending tabular dyke 5m-10m in true width. The Mineral Resource Estimate is based on results from 9 reverse circulation drill holes completed by Savannah in 2017. The Deposit outcrops over a strike length of approximately 400m and remains open along strike and at depth (Figure 4-5).

Figure 4. NOA Resource Model - See PDF

Figure 5. Cross Section through NOA Resource Model - See PDF

The Mineral Resource Estimate has been classified as an Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate in accordance with the JORC Code, 2012 Edition and are shown in Table 1.

Table 1. Grandao and NOA Deposits Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate

(above 0.5% Li₂O cut-off grade)

Deposit	Tonnes	Li₂O	Fe₂O₃	Li₂O
	Mt	%	%	Tonnes
Grandao	5.5	1.04	1.2	56,500
NOA	0.5	1.23	1.3	5,600

Resource Summary - Grandao and NOA Lithium Deposits

Geology

At Mina do Barroso, lithium mineralisation occurs predominantly in the form of spodumene-bearing pegmatites, which are hosted in metapelitic and mica schists, and occasionally carbonate schists of upper Ordovician to lower Devonian age. The main Grandao pegmatite is a flat-lying, tabular zone defined over an area of 400m north-south and 330m east-west and varies in thickness from 10m-50m. It is very close to surface and is visible in outcrop over a significant area. A lower zone of mineralisation is also present at Grandao, hosted in what is interpreted to be a steep-dipping, tabular pegmatite dyke 15m-20m in true width. The geometry is not well defined due to the currently sparse drilling (Figure 4).

Figure 6. Grandao Geological Model - See PDF

At the NOA Deposit, the host pegmatite is a steep dipping, northwest trending dyke, which is 5-10m in true width. It has been mapped in outcrop over much of the interpreted 400m strike length of the Mineral Resource Estimate.

Figure 7. NOA Geological Model - See PDF

At the Project, lithium is present in most aplite compositions and laboratory test work confirms that the lithium is almost exclusively within spodumene. Distinct lithium grade zonation occurs within the pegmatites, with weakly mineralised zones often evident at the margins of the dykes. Minor xenoliths and inliers of schist are observed on occasions.

The weathering profile comprises a shallow, surficial zone of weak to moderate oxidation, particularly of the schistose country rock. A zone of deeper weathering exists on the western side of the Grandao Deposit with moderate oxidation to a depth of up to 50m.

Drilling

A total of 40 RC holes define the Grandao Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate. The holes were drilled on an approximate grid spacing of 40m-60m. All holes were drilled by Savannah in 2017.

The NOA Deposit is defined by 9 RC holes. In the southeast portion of the deposit, holes are drilled at 30m spacings on 50-60m spaced cross sections. The northwest portion of the deposit is defined by single drill holes on 60-80m spaced sections.

Drill collar locations are recorded in Universal Traverse Mercator ("UTM") coordinates using hand-held GPS, with elevations adjusted to a regional topographic Digital Terrain Model ("DTM"). All Savannah drilling has been down-hole surveyed using a gyroscopic tool.

Sampling and Sub-Sampling Techniques

For the Savannah drilling, a face-sampling hammer was used with samples collected at 1m intervals from pegmatite zones with composite sampling of typically 4m in the surrounding schists. The 1m samples were collected through a rig-mounted rotary splitter and were 4kg-6kg in weight. The 4m composites were collected by spear sampling of the 1m intervals. Samples were weighed to assess the sample recovery which was determined to be satisfactory.

Sample Analysis Method

For all Savannah drilling, whole samples were crushed then riffle split to produce a 250g split for pulverizing and analysis.

The samples were analysed using ALS laboratories ME-MS89L Super Trace method which combines a sodium peroxide fusion with ICP-MS analysis and a multi-element suite was analysed.

QAQC protocols were in place for the drilling programmes and included the used of standards and field duplicates. The data has confirmed the quality of the sampling and assaying for use in Mineral Resource estimation.

Estimation Methodology

For the Grandao Mineral Resource Estimate, a Surpac block model was constructed with block sizes of 20m (EW) by 10m (NS) by 5m (elevation) with sub-celling to 5m by 2.5m by 1.25m. The typical drill hole spacing is 40m-60m.

For the NOA Mineral Resource Estimate, block size used was 20m (EW) by 5m (NS) by 5m (elevation) with sub-celling to 5m by 1.25m by 1.25m.

Interpretation of the pegmatite dykes was completed using detailed geological logging and Fe geochemistry. Wireframes of the pegmatites were prepared and within those the sample data was extracted and analysed. A clear break in the grade distribution occurs at 0.5% Li₂O and this grade threshold was used to prepare the internal grade domains for estimation. Zones of unmineralised schist within the pegmatite body were selectively wireframed and excluded from the estimate.

At Grandao, pegmatite and mineralisation domains were extrapolated up to 40m horizontally from the drill hole intersections. At NOA, wireframes were extended 40m-60m down dip from intersections and for 40m along strike.

Sample data was composited into 1m intervals then block model grades estimated using ordinary kriging (OK) grade interpolation at Grandao and inverse distance squared (ID2) grade interpolation at NOA. A first pass search range of 50m was used and oriented to match the dip and strike of the mineralisation. A minimum of 10 samples and a maximum of 24 samples were used to estimate each block. The majority of the Mineral Resource Estimate (63% Grandao, 61% NOA) was estimated in the first pass with expanded search radii of 100m and 200m used for the blocks not estimated in the first pass. No high-grade cuts were applied to the estimate.

Iron within the pegmatites is uniformly low, with a mean Fe₂O₃ grade of 1.2% at Grandao and 1.3% at NOA. Other similar deposits have reported that a large proportion of the assayed iron is due to contamination from the abrasion of steel drilling and sample preparation equipment and this will be investigated as part of ongoing studies at the project.

Bulk density determinations (helium pycnometer) were carried out on 87 sample pulps. Bulk density values applied to the estimates were 2.5t/m³ for oxide lithologies, 2.7t/m³ for unoxidized pegmatite and 2.8t/m³ for unoxidized schist.

Mineral Resource Classification

The Mineral Resource Estimate was classified in accordance with the Australasian Code for the Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves (JORC, 2012).

The main pegmatite dyke at Grandao has generally been defined by 40m to 60m spaced drill holes. The majority of holes have consistently intersected pegmatite, with the majority intersecting resource grade Li₂O mineralisation and the continuity of lithium mineralisation is good. The deep dyke has been delineated by only three drill holes. Detailed collar and topographic surveys were not available for the deposit and until these are received the deposit has been classified as an Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate.

The NOA Deposit has been drilled at 30m to 80m hole spacings. All holes have intersected resource grade lithium mineralisation but due to the broad hole spacing and small number of intersections, the Deposit has been classified as an Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate.

The main shallow pegmatite at Grandao lies entirely above 90m vertical depth. The deep pegmatite has been reported to a depth of 260m vertical. The NOA mineralisation has been reported to a maximum vertical depth of 90m.

Cut-off Grades

The shallow, outcropping nature of both deposits and the flat lying, shallow nature of the Grandao pegmatite suggests good potential for open pit mining if sufficient resources can be delineated to consider a mining operation. The lower pegmatite at Grandao has favourable geometry and thickness to consider low-cost underground mining. As such, the Mineral Resource Estimate has been reported at a 0.5% Li₂O lower cut-off grade to reflect assumed exploitation by low cost mining methods.

Metallurgy

Metallurgical test work has been conducted by Savannah on representative mineralisation at Mina do Barroso. The work was completed by Nagrom Metallurgical in Australia and confirmed that high-grade lithium, low grade iron concentrate can be generated from the mineralisation using conventional processing technology. Microscopy confirmed that the concentrate was almost entirely spodumene.

Modifying Factors

No modifying factors were applied to the reported Mineral Resource Estimate. Parameters reflecting mining dilution, ore loss and metallurgical recoveries will be considered during the any future mining evaluation of the project.

Exploration Target

During its first six months of exploration, Savannah has defined a Mineral Resource Estimate from three deposits in the Mina do Barroso Project area. All three deposits remain open and untested by drilling either down dip or along strike of the defined Mineral Resource Estimate and there is excellent potential to extend the deposits with further drilling. In addition, there are numerous other outcropping pegmatite dykes that require drill testing to determine if they are also lithium bearing.

Savannah has been drilling at Mina do Barroso since mid-2017 and ongoing programmes for 2018 have commenced which are designed to test for extensions of the defined deposits and to test other outcropping pegmatite targets in the Project area. Infill drilling to increase the confidence in the reported Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate is also being planned.

To quantify the potential of the Project beyond the currently defined Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate, an initial Exploration Target* for the Grandao and Reservatorio Deposits of 8-12Mt at 1.0% to 1.2% Li₂O has been defined. This gives a project target (including Mineral Resource Estimate) of 17-21Mt at 1.0-1.2% Li₂O.

Table 2. Exploration Targets for Mina do Barroso Project

Deposit	Tonnage Range (Mt)		Li₂O %
Deposit	Lower	Upper
Reservatorio
Bottom of Inferred to 200m Vertical Depth	5.0	7.0	1.0-1.2%
Grandao
50% Expansion of Upper Pegmatite	2.0	3.0	1.0-1.2%
100% Expansion of Lower Pegmatite	1.0	2.0	1.0-1.2%
Total Mina do Barroso Exploration Target	8.0	12.0	1.0-1.2%

Reservatorio Exploration Target

A Mineral Resource Estimate was completed for the Reservatorio Deposit in December 2017. It was modelled and estimated for the full extent of the SAV drilling and the Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate was extended between 40m and 100m down dip from the deepest drill holes.

There is no information to suggest that the pegmatite and lithium mineralisation does not continue with the same characteristics and grade as the drilled portion. As a result, beneath the Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate boundary, a wireframe model was created, assuming continuation of the mineralisation down-dip to 200m below surface. Applying a density of 2.6t/m³ as used in the Reservatorio Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate, and assuming the same lithium grade observed in the drilled portion, the Exploration Target has been defined as 5 Mt to 7 Mt at a grade of 1.0% to 1.2% Li₂O.

Grandao Exploration Target

An Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate was completed for the Grandao Deposit in February 2018. It was modelled and estimated for the area drilled in detail by SAV. The Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate was extended between 20m and 40m along strike from drilled area.

The shallow pegmatite appears to be closed off by drilling to the northeast and to the southeast. To the west and northwest, the mineralisation remains open and untested. To the south some sparse drilling has confirmed the presence of mineralised pegmatite for up to 150m from the Mineral Resource Estimate boundary and the limits of the mineralisation have not been found. There is no information to suggest that the pegmatite and lithium mineralisation does not continue to the west and northwest with the same characteristics and grade as the drilled portion.

The Exploration Target for the shallow pegmatite is considered to be at least 50% of the defined Mineral Resource Estimate for that portion of the deposit so the Exploration Target has been defined as 2 Mt to 3 Mt at a grade of 1.0% to 1.2% Li₂O.

The deep pegmatite has been intersected in only three holes which have recorded thick, high grade mineralisation. The mineralisation is open in all directions and the Exploration Target has been defined as a 100% increase on the defined Mineral Resource Estimate which gives a Exploration Target of 1 Mt to 2 Mt at a grade of 1.0% to 1.2% Li₂O.

Competent Person and Regulatory Information

The information in this announcement that relates to exploration results is based upon information compiled by Mr Dale Ferguson, Technical Director of Savannah Resources Limited. Mr Ferguson is a Member of the Australian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM) and has sufficient experience which is relevant to the style of mineralisation and type of deposit under consideration and to the activity which he is undertaking to qualify as a Competent Person as defined in the December 2012 edition of the "Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves" (JORC Code). Mr Ferguson consents to the inclusion in the report of the matters based upon the information in the form and context in which it appears.

The Information in this report that relates to Mineral Resources and Exploration Targets is based on information compiled by Mr Paul Payne, a Competent Person who is a Fellow of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. Mr Payne is a full-time employee of Payne Geological Services. Mr Payne has sufficient experience that is relevant to the style of mineralisation and type of deposit under consideration and to the activity being undertaken to qualify as a Competent Person as defined in the 2012 Edition of the "Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves". Mr Payne consents to the inclusion in the report of the matters based on his information in the form and context in which it appears.

This announcement contains inside information for the purposes of Article 7 of Regulation (EU) 596/2014.

**ENDS**

For further information please visit www.savannahresources.com or contact:

David Archer	Savannah Resources plc	Tel: +44 20 7117 2489
David Hignell / Gerry Beaney (Nominated Adviser)	Northland Capital Partners Ltd	Tel: +44 20 3861 6625
Christopher Raggett / Emily Morris (Joint Broker)	finnCap Ltd	Tel: +44 20 7220 0500
Jon Belliss (Joint Broker)	Beaufort Securities Ltd	Tel: +44 20 7382 8300
Charlotte Page / Lottie Wadham (Financial PR)	St Brides Partners Ltd	Tel: +44 20 7236 1177

About Savannah

We are a diversified resources group (AIM: SAV and SWB: SAV) with a portfolio of energy metals projects - lithium in Portugal and copper in Oman - together with the world-class Mutamba Heavy Mineral Sands Project in Mozambique, which is being developed in a consortium with the global major Rio Tinto. We are committed to serving the interests of our shareholders and to delivering outcomes that will improve the lives of our staff and the communities we work with.

The group is listed and regulated on AIM and the Company's ordinary shares are also available on the Börse Stuttgart (SWB) under the ticker "SAV"

Appendix 1: Detailed Mineral Resource Tables

Grandao February 2018 Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate
0.5% Li₂O Cut-off
Bench	Transitional								Fresh							Total
Top	Tonnes		Li₂O		Ta₂O₅		Fe₂O₃		Tonnes	Li₂O		Ta₂O₅		Fe₂O₃		Tonnes		Li₂O		Ta₂O₅		Fe₂O₃		Li₂O
RL	t		%		ppm		%		t	%		ppm		%		t		%		ppm		%		Tonnes
590	9,000		0.71		29		1.8									9,000		0.71		29		1.8		100
580	101,000		0.91		27		1.6		1,000	1.25		27		1.2		102,000		0.92		27		1.6		900
570	202,000		0.95		26		1.3		168,000	1.20		20		1.3		369,000		1.07		23		1.3		3,900
560	112,000		1.09		18		1.3		330,000	1.03		22		1.2		442,000		1.05		21		1.2		4,600
550	228,000		1.19		17		1.3		254,000	0.89		23		1.1		482,000		1.03		21		1.2		5,000
540	301,000		1.07		18		1.2		197,000	0.80		24		1.1		498,000		0.96		21		1.2		4,800
530	467,000		0.96		20		1.2		145,000	0.83		22		1.1		612,000		0.93		20		1.2		5,700
520	413,000		0.96		20		1.1		189,000	0.99		18		1.2		602,000		0.97		20		1.1		5,900
510	191,000		0.99		17		1.2		322,000	1.10		16		1.3		513,000		1.06		16		1.3		5,400
500	79,000		1.05		14		1.2		335,000	1.08		15		1.4		414,000		1.07		15		1.3		4,500
490	10,000		1.28		24		1.4		261,000	1.19		19		1.3		271,000		1.20		19		1.3		3,200
480									206,000	1.20		19		1.2		206,000		1.20		19		1.2		2,500
470									150,000	1.19		19		1.2		150,000		1.19		19		1.2		1,800
460									80,000	1.26		16		1.3		80,000		1.26		16		1.3		1,000
450									64,000	1.30		19		1.2		64,000		1.30		19		1.2		800
440									57,000	1.27		19		1.0		57,000		1.27		19		1.0		700
430									47,000	1.23		18		1.0		47,000		1.23		18		1.0		600
420									45,000	1.19		18		1.0		45,000		1.19		18		1.0		500
410									48,000	1.10		18		1.0		48,000		1.10		18		1.0		500
400									51,000	1.15		18		1.0		51,000		1.15		18		1.0		600
390									53,000	1.05		18		1.0		53,000		1.05		18		1.0		600
380									51,000	1.04		18		1.0		51,000		1.04		18		1.0		500
370									49,000	0.93		17		1.0		49,000		0.93		17		1.0		500
360									43,000	0.93		18		1.0		43,000		0.93		18		1.0		400
350									42,000	0.80		17		1.0		42,000		0.80		17		1.0		300
340									38,000	0.82		17		1.0		38,000		0.82		17		1.0		300
330									36,000	0.75		17		1.0		36,000		0.75		17		1.0		300
320									30,000	0.78		17		1.0		30,000		0.78		17		1.0		200
310									29,000	0.73		17		1.0		29,000		0.73		17		1.0		200
300									15,000	0.74		17		1.1		15,000		0.74		17		1.1		100
290									2,000	0.77		17		1.0		2,000		0.77		17		1.0		10
Total	2,112,000		1.01		20		1.2		3,339,000	1.05		19		1.2		5,450,000		1.04		19		1.2		56,500
NOA February 2018 Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate
0.5% Li₂O Cut-off
Bench	Transitional							Fresh									Total
Top	Tonnes	Li₂O		Ta₂O₅		Fe₂O₃		Tonnes			Li₂O		Ta₂O₅		Fe₂O₃		Tonnes		Li₂O		Ta₂O₅		Fe₂O₃		Li₂O
RL	t	%		ppm		%		t			%		ppm		%		t		%		ppm		%		Tonnes
700	2,000	1.26		31		1.3					1.26		31		1.3		3,000		1.26		31		1.3		30
690	14,000	1.23		26		1.3		30,000			1.22		30		1.4		44,000		1.23		29		1.3		500
680	1,000	1.26		22		1.3		61,000			1.21		28		1.3		62,000		1.21		28		1.3		700
670								66,000			1.20		27		1.3		66,000		1.20		27		1.3		800
660								68,000			1.19		23		1.3		68,000		1.19		23		1.3		800
650								64,000			1.22		22		1.3		64,000		1.22		22		1.3		800
640								52,000			1.27		21		1.4		52,000		1.27		21		1.4		700
630								38,000			1.30		21		1.4		38,000		1.30		21		1.4		500
620								31,000			1.29		20		1.4		31,000		1.29		20		1.4		400
610								31,000			1.28		20		1.4		31,000		1.28		20		1.4		400
Total	17,000	1.24		27		1.3		440,000			1.23		24		1.3		457,000		1.23		24		1.3		5,600

APPENDIX 2 - JORC 2012 Table 1

Section 1 Sampling Techniques and Data

(Criteria in this section apply to all succeeding sections.)

Criteria	JORC Code explanation	Commentary
Sampling techniques	· Nature and quality of sampling (eg cut channels, random chips, or specific specialised industry standard measurement tools appropriate to the minerals under investigation, such as down hole gamma sondes, or handheld XRF instruments, etc). These examples should not be taken as limiting the broad meaning of sampling.	· Reverse circulation (120mm size) samples were taken on either 1 intervals for pegmatite or 4m composites in surrounding schist. RC samples were collected in large plastic bags from an onboard rig splitter and a 4-6kg representative sample taken for analysis.
	· Include reference to measures taken to ensure sample representivity and the appropriate calibration of any measurement tools or systems used.	· Drilling was conducted on a nominal 80m by 40m spacing based on geological targets using RC drilling technology, an industry standard drilling technique. Drilling rods are 3m long and 1 sample is taken for each rod interval. · Collar surveys are carried using hand held GPS with an accuracy to within 5m, and the z direction was determined by satellite derived elevation data and is accurate to less than a metre. · A downhole survey for each hole was completed
	· Aspects of the determination of mineralisation that are Material to the Public Report. · In cases where 'industry standard' work has been done this would be relatively simple (eg 'reverse circulation drilling was used to obtain 1 m samples from which 3 kg was pulverised to produce a 30 g charge for fire assay'). In other cases more explanation may be required, such as where there is coarse gold that has inherent sampling problems. Unusual commodities or mineralisation types (eg submarine nodules) may warrant disclosure of detailed information.	· The lithium mineralization is predominantly in the form of Spodumene-bearing pegmatites, the pegmatites are unzoned and vary in thickness from 10m-109m. · Down hole sampling is carried out on either a 1 or 4m interval from which 4-6kg of pulverized material (RC) was pulverized to produce a 50g charge for assaying
Drilling techniques	· Drill type (eg core, reverse circulation, open-hole hammer, rotary air blast, auger, Bangka, sonic, etc) and details (eg core diameter, triple or standard tube, depth of diamond tails, face-sampling bit or other type, whether core is oriented and if so, by what method, etc).	· RC drilling at a diameter of 120mm is a form of reverse circulation drilling requiring annular drill rods. Compressed air is pumped down the outer tube and the sample is collected from the open face drilling bit and blown up the inner tube.
Drill sample recovery	· Method of recording and assessing core and chip sample recoveries and results assessed.	· Field assessment of sample volume. A theoretical dried sample mass was estimated to be within the range of 18 kg to 24 Kg, 70% of samples are within the expected range. Lower than average sample recovery is recorded only for the very top of the drill hole due to air and sample losses into the surrounding soil
	· Measures taken to maximise sample recovery and ensure representative nature of the samples.	· RC drilling sample weights were monitored to ensure samples were maximized. Samples were carefully loaded into a splitter and split in the same manner ensuring that the sample split to be sent to the assay laboratories were in the range of 4-6kg.
	· Whether a relationship exists between sample recovery and grade and whether sample bias may have occurred due to preferential loss/gain of fine/coarse material.	· No obvious relationships
Logging	· Whether core and chip samples have been geologically and geotechnically logged to a level of detail to support appropriate Mineral Resource estimation, mining studies and metallurgical studies. · Whether logging is qualitative or quantitative in nature. Core (or costean, channel, etc) photography. · The total length and percentage of the relevant intersections logged.	· RC holes were logged in the field at the time of sampling. · Each 1m sample interval was carefully homogenized and assessed for lithology, colour, grainsize, structure and mineralization. · A representative chip sample produced from RC drilling was washed and taken for each 1m sample and stored in a chip tray which was photographed
Sub-sampling techniques and sample preparation	· If core, whether cut or sawn and whether quarter, half or all core taken. · If non-core, whether riffled, tube sampled, rotary split, etc and whether sampled wet or dry.	· 1m RC samples were split by the rotary splitter on the drill rig and sampled dry · The 4m composites were collected using a spear with the spear inserted into the bag at a high angle and pushed across the sample to maximise representivity of the sample
	· For all sample types, the nature, quality and appropriateness of the sample preparation technique.	· The sampling was conducted using industry standard techniques and were considered appropriate
	· Quality control procedures adopted for all sub-sampling stages to maximise representivity of samples.	· Field duplicates were used to test repeatability of the sub-sampling and were found to be satisfactory
	· Measures taken to ensure that the sampling is representative of the in situ material collected, including for instance results for field duplicate/second-half sampling.	· Every effort was made to ensure that the samples were representative and not biased in any way
	· Whether sample sizes are appropriate to the grain size of the material being sampled.	· All samples were taken once they went through the onboard splitter from the drill rig. Depending on the rock types on average a 4-6kg sample was sent to the lab for analysis and the remaining material averaged 18-24kg and remains stored on site for any further analysis required
Quality of assay data and laboratory tests	· The nature, quality and appropriateness of the assaying and laboratory procedures used and whether the technique is considered partial or total.	· Samples were received, sorted, labelled and dried · Samples were crushed to 70% less than 2mm, riffle split off 250g, pulverize split to better than 85% passing 75 microns and 5g was split of for assaying · The samples were analysed using ALS laboratories ME-MS89L Super Trace method which combines a sodium peroxide fusion with ICP-MS instrumentation utilizing collision/reaction cell technologies to provide the lowest detection limits available. · A prepared sample (0.2g) is added to sodium peroxide flux, mixed well and then fused in at 670°C. The resulting melt is cooled and then dissolved in 30% hydrochloric acid. This solution is then analyzed by Inductively Coupled Plasma - Mass Spectrometry and the results are corrected for spectral inter-element interferences. · The final solution is then analyzed by ICP-MS, with results corrected for spectral inter-element interferences.
	· For geophysical tools, spectrometers, handheld XRF instruments, etc, the parameters used in determining the analysis including instrument make and model, reading times, calibrations factors applied and their derivation, etc.	· Not used
	· Nature of quality control procedures adopted (eg standards, blanks, duplicates, external laboratory checks) and whether acceptable levels of accuracy (ie lack of bias) and precision have been established.	· Standards/blanks and duplicates were inserted on a 1:20 ratio for both to samples taken · Duplicate sample regime is used to monitor sampling methodology and homogeneity. · A powder chip tray for the entire hole is completed for both RC and RAB. A sub-sample is sieved from the large RC bags at site into chip trays over the pegmatite interval to assist in geological logging. These are photographed and kept on the central database · Routine QA/QC controls for the method ME-MS89L include Blanks, certified reference standards of Lithium and duplicate samples. Samples are assayed within runs or batches up to 40 samples. At the fusion stage that quality control samples are included together with the samples so all samples follow the same procedure until the end. Fused and diluted samples are prepared for ICP-MS analysis. ICP instrument is calibrated through appropriate certified standards solutions and interference corrections to achieve strict calibration fitting parameters. Each 40 samples run is assayed with 2 blanks, 2 certified standards and one duplicate samples and results are evaluated accordingly. · A QA/QC review of all information indicated that all assays we inside reasonable tolerance levels.
Verification of sampling and assaying	· The verification of significant intersections by either independent or alternative company personnel.	· All information was internally audited by company personnel
	· The use of twinned holes.	· Several historical holes were twinned for comparison purposes with the modern drilling
	· Documentation of primary data, data entry procedures, data verification, data storage (physical and electronic) protocols.	· Savannah's experienced project geologists supervised all processes. · All field data is entered into a custom log sheet and then into excel spreadsheets (supported by look-up tables) at site and subsequently validated as it is imported into the centralized Access database. · Hard copies of logs, survey and sampling data are stored in the local office and electronic data is stored on the main server.
	· Discuss any adjustment to assay data.	· Results were reported as Li(ppm) and were converted to a percentage by dividing by 10,000 and then to Li2O% by multiplying by 2.153
Location of data points	· Accuracy and quality of surveys used to locate drill holes (collar and down-hole surveys), trenches, mine workings and other locations used in Mineral Resource estimation. · Specification of the grid system used. · Quality and adequacy of topographic control.	· The coordinate of each drill hole was taken at the time of collecting using a handheld GPS with an accuracy of 5m. · The grid system used is WSG84 · Topographic accuracy was +/- 5m
Data spacing and distribution	· Data spacing for reporting of Exploration Results. · Whether the data spacing and distribution is sufficient to establish the degree of geological and grade continuity appropriate for the Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve estimation procedure(s) and classifications applied. · Whether sample compositing has been applied.	· Drilling was on a nominal 80m by 40m spacing and based on geological targets · Drill data is at sufficient spacing to define an Inferred Mineral Resource. · Some samples were composited on a 4m basis based on geological criteria, these areas were all outside the pegmatite bodies where 1m sampling was completed
Orientation of data in relation to geological structure	· Whether the orientation of sampling achieves unbiased sampling of possible structures and the extent to which this is known, considering the deposit type. · If the relationship between the drilling orientation and the orientation of key mineralised structures is considered to have introduced a sampling bias, this should be assessed and reported if material.	· Drilling was orientated perpendicular to the known strike of the pegmatites · Drill holes were orientated at either -60 degrees or -90 degrees depending on the dip of the pegmatite in an attempt to get drill holes as close to true width as possible
Sample security	· The measures taken to ensure sample security.	· Samples were delivered to a courier and chain of custody is managed by Savannah.
Audits or reviews	· The results of any audits or reviews of sampling techniques and data.	· Internal company auditing

Section 2 Reporting of Exploration Results

(Criteria listed in the preceding section also apply to this section.)

Criteria	JORC Code explanation	Commentary
Mineral tenement and land tenure status	· Type, reference name/number, location and ownership including agreements or material issues with third parties such as joint ventures, partnerships, overriding royalties, native title interests, historical sites, wilderness or national park and environmental settings. · The security of the tenure held at the time of reporting along with any known impediments to obtaining a license to operate in the area.	· All work was completed inside the Mina do Barroso project C-100 · Savannah has received written confirmation from the DGEG that under article 24 of Decree-Law no. 88/90 of March 16 being relevant justification based on the resources allocated exploited and intended, Savannah has been approved an expansion up to 250m of C100 mining concession in specific areas where a resource has been defined and the requirement for the expansion can be justified. This expansion and re-definition of the boundary is currently underway in the Reservatorio area and as a result potential mineralisation in the area has been included into the exploration target
Exploration done by other parties	· Acknowledgment and appraisal of exploration by other parties.	· N/A
Geology	· Deposit type, geological setting and style of mineralisation.	· The lithium mineralization is predominantly in the form of Spodumene-bearing pegmatites which are hosted in meta-pelitic and mica schists, and occasionally carbonate schists of upper Ordovician to lower Devonian age. The pegmatites are unzoned and vary in thickness from 15m-109m. Lithium is present in most aplite compositions.
Drill hole Information	· A summary of all information material to the understanding of the exploration results including a tabulation of the following information for all Material drill holes: o easting and northing of the drill hole collar o elevation or RL (Reduced Level - elevation above sea level in metres) of the drill hole collar o dip and azimuth of the hole o down hole length and interception depth o hole length. · If the exclusion of this information is justified on the basis that the information is not Material and this exclusion does not detract from the understanding of the report, the Competent Person should clearly explain why this is the case.		· Grid used WSG84 · No material data has been excluded from the release · Drill hole intersections used in the resource have been previously reported.
Data aggregation methods	· In reporting Exploration Results, weighting averaging techniques, maximum and/or minimum grade truncations (eg cutting of high grades) and cut-off grades are usually Material and should be stated. · Where aggregate intercepts incorporate short lengths of high grade results and longer lengths of low grade results, the procedure used for such aggregation should be stated and some typical examples of such aggregations should be shown in detail. · The assumptions used for any reporting of metal equivalent values should be clearly stated.		· No new exploration results have been reported in this release.
Relationship between mineralisation widths and intercept lengths	· These relationships are particularly important in the reporting of Exploration Results. · If the geometry of the mineralisation with respect to the drill hole angle is known, its nature should be reported. · If it is not known and only the down hole lengths are reported, there should be a clear statement to this effect (eg 'down hole length, true width not known').		· Exploration results are reported as down hole intercepts · No metal equivalent values have been used. · The drill holes are detailed in the table in the main release and the pegmatite at NOA appears to dip at around 40 degrees to the north west and at Grandao it is sub horizontal with an additional sub-vertical component In places
Diagrams	· Appropriate maps and sections (with scales) and tabulations of intercepts should be included for any significant discovery being reported These should include, but not be limited to a plan view of drill hole collar locations and appropriate sectional views.		· Relevant diagrams and maps have been included in the main body of the release.
Balanced reporting	· Where comprehensive reporting of all Exploration Results is not practicable, representative reporting of both low and high grades and/or widths should be practiced to avoid misleading reporting of Exploration Results.		· All relevant results available have been previously reported.
Other substantive exploration data	· Other exploration data, if meaningful and material, should be reported including (but not limited to): geological observations; geophysical survey results; geochemical survey results; bulk samples - size and method of treatment; metallurgical test results; bulk density, groundwater, geotechnical and rock characteristics; potential deleterious or contaminating substances.		· The interpretation of the results is consistent with the observations and information obtained from the data collected.
Further work	· The nature and scale of planned further work (eg tests for lateral extensions or depth extensions or large-scale step-out drilling). · Diagrams clearly highlighting the areas of possible extensions, including the main geological interpretations and future drilling areas, provided this information is not commercially sensitive.		· Further rock chip sampling, channel sampling and RC drilling. Once planning has been completed the detail will be provided

Section 3 Estimation and Reporting of Mineral Resources

Criteria	JORC Code explanation	Commentary
Database integrity	· Measures taken to ensure that data has not been corrupted by, for example, transcription or keying errors, between its initial collection and its use for Mineral Resource estimation purposes. · Data validation procedures used.	· The assay data was captured electronically to prevent transcription errors. · Validation included visual review of results.
Site visits	· Comment on any site visits undertaken by the Competent Person and the outcome of those visits. · If no site visits have been undertaken indicate why this is the case.	· Numerous site visits were undertaken by Dale Ferguson in 2017 which included an inspection of the drilling process, outcrop area and confirmation that no obvious impediments to future exploration or development were present.
Geological interpretation	· Confidence in (or conversely, the uncertainty of) the geological interpretation of the mineral deposit. · Nature of the data used and of any assumptions made. · The effect, if any, of alternative interpretations on Mineral Resource estimation. · The use of geology in guiding and controlling Mineral Resource estimation. · The factors affecting continuity both of grade and geology.	· The pegmatite dykes hosting the Grandao and NOA mineralisation are well defined in outcrop and in drilling and boundaries are generally very sharp and distinct. · The shape and extent of the >0.5% Li2O mineralisation is clearly controlled by the general geometry of the pegmatites. · Zonation of lithium within the pegmatite is evident, and typically the margins are weakly mineralised. · Xenoliths or inliers of barren schist country rock occur within the pegmatite, and these have been excluded from the estimate where large enough to model.
Dimensions	· The extent and variability of the Mineral Resource expressed as length (along strike or otherwise), plan width, and depth below surface to the upper and lower limits of the Mineral Resource.	· The Grandao upper pegmatite has an extent of 400m NS and 330m EW, a dip extent of 210m EW and a maximum vertical depth of 90m. The thickness of the mineralisation ranges from 20m to 50m. · The Grandao lower pegmatite has a modelled extent of 60m EW, a dip extent of 230m and a maximum vertical depth of 260m. The thickness of the mineralisation ranges from 15m to 20m. · The NOA pegmatite has an SE-NW strike extent of 400m, is modelled to 90m vertical depth and has a true thickness of 5-10m.
Estimation and modelling techniques	· The nature and appropriateness of the estimation technique(s) applied and key assumptions, including treatment of extreme grade values, domaining, interpolation parameters and maximum distance of extrapolation from data points. If a computer assisted estimation method was chosen include a description of computer software and parameters used. · The availability of check estimates, previous estimates and/or mine production records and whether the Mineral Resource estimate takes appropriate account of such data. · The assumptions made regarding recovery of by-products. · Estimation of deleterious elements or other non-grade variables of economic significance (eg sulphur for acid mine drainage characterisation). · In the case of block model interpolation, the block size in relation to the average sample spacing and the search employed. · Any assumptions behind modelling of selective mining units. · Any assumptions about correlation between variables. · Description of how the geological interpretation was used to control the resource estimates. · Discussion of basis for using or not using grade cutting or capping. · The process of validation, the checking process used, the comparison of model data to drill hole data, and use of reconciliation data if available.	· Ordinary kriging (Grandao) and inverse distance squared (NOA) was used to estimate average block grades within the resource. · Surpac software was used for the estimation. · Samples were composited to 1m intervals to match the sample lengths. Due to the extremely low CV of the data no high grade cuts were applied to the estimate. · At Grandao the parent block dimensions were 20m EW by 10m NS by 5m vertical with sub-cells of 5m by 2.5m by 1.25m. Cell size was based on 50% of the average drill hole spacing. · At NOA the parent block dimensions were 20m EW by 5m NS by 5m vertical with sub-cells of 5m by 1.25m by 1.25m. Cell size was based on 50% of the minimum drill hole spacing. · No previous resource estimates have been prepared for the deposits. · No assumptions have been made regarding recovery of by-products. · The grade of Fe2O3 was estimated for the deposit, with a mean grade of 1.2% for Grandao and 1.3% for NOA. · An orientated ellipsoid search was used to select data and was based on drill hole spacing and the geometry of the pegmatite dyke. · A search of 50m was used with a minimum of 10 samples and a maximum of 24 samples which resulted in 63% (Grandao) and 61% (NOA) of blocks being estimated. The remaining blocks were estimated with search radii of 100m and 200m. · Selective mining units were not modelled in the Mineral Resource model. The block size used in the model was based on drill sample spacing and deposit geometry. · The deposit mineralisation was constrained by wireframes prepared using a 0.5% Li₂O grade envelope. · For validation, quantitative spatial comparison of block grades to assay grades was carried out using swath plots; · Global comparisons of drill hole and block model grades were also carried out.
Moisture	· Whether the tonnages are estimated on a dry basis or with natural moisture, and the method of determination of the moisture content.	· Tonnages and grades were estimated on a dry in situ basis. No moisture values were reviewed.
Cut-off parameters	· The basis of the adopted cut-off grade(s) or quality parameters applied.	· The shallow, outcropping nature of both deposits and in particular the flat lying, shallow geometry of the Grandao deposit suggests good potential for open pit mining if sufficient resources can be delineated to consider a mining operation. As such, the Mineral Resource has been reported at a 0.5% Li₂O lower cut-off grade to reflect assumed exploitation by open pit mining.
Mining factors or assumptions	· Assumptions made regarding possible mining methods, minimum mining dimensions and internal (or, if applicable, external) mining dilution. It is always necessary as part of the process of determining reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction to consider potential mining methods, but the assumptions made regarding mining methods and parameters when estimating Mineral Resources may not always be rigorous. Where this is the case, this should be reported with an explanation of the basis of the mining assumptions made.	· Based on comparison with other similar deposits, the Mineral Resource is considered to have sufficient grade and metallurgical characteristics for economic treatment if an operation is established at the site. · No mining parameters or modifying factors have been applied to the Mineral Resource.
Metallurgical factors or assumptions	· The basis for assumptions or predictions regarding metallurgical amenability. It is always necessary as part of the process of determining reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction to consider potential metallurgical methods, but the assumptions regarding metallurgical treatment processes and parameters made when reporting Mineral Resources may not always be rigorous. Where this is the case, this should be reported with an explanation of the basis of the metallurgical assumptions made.	· Metallurgical test work has been conducted by Savannah on representative mineralisation at the Do Barroso project. The work was completed by Nagrom Metallurgical in Australia and confirmed that high grade lithium, low grade iron concentrate can be generated from the mineralisation using conventional processing technology. Microscopy confirmed that the concentrate was almost entirely spodumene.
Environmental factors or assumptions	· Assumptions made regarding possible waste and process residue disposal options. It is always necessary as part of the process of determining reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction to consider the potential environmental impacts of the mining and processing operation. While at this stage the determination of potential environmental impacts, particularly for a greenfields project, may not always be well advanced, the status of early consideration of these potential environmental impacts should be reported. Where these aspects have not been considered this should be reported with an explanation of the environmental assumptions made.	· The area is not known to be environmentally sensitive and there is no reason to think that proposals for development including the dumping of waste would not be approved if planning and permitting guidelines are followed.
Bulk density	· Whether assumed or determined. If assumed, the basis for the assumptions. If determined, the method used, whether wet or dry, the frequency of the measurements, the nature, size and representativeness of the samples. · The bulk density for bulk material must have been measured by methods that adequately account for void spaces (vugs, porosity, etc), moisture and differences between rock and alteration zones within the deposit. · Discuss assumptions for bulk density estimates used in the evaluation process of the different materials.	· Bulk density determinations (helium pycnometer) were carried out on 87 sample pulps. Bulk density values applied to the estimates were 2.5t/m³ for transitional lithologies, 2.7t/m³ for unoxidized pegmatite and 2.8t/m³ for unoxidized schist.
Classification	· The basis for the classification of the Mineral Resources into varying confidence categories. · Whether appropriate account has been taken of all relevant factors (ie relative confidence in tonnage/grade estimations, reliability of input data, confidence in continuity of geology and metal values, quality, quantity and distribution of the data). · Whether the result appropriately reflects the Competent Person's view of the deposit.	· The Mineral Resources was classified in accordance with the Australasian Code for the Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves (JORC, 2012). · The entire Mineral Resource was classified as Inferred on the basis of data quality, sample spacing, and grade variability. · The deposit has been reviewed by the Competent Person and the results reflect the view of the Competent Person.
Audits or reviews	· The results of any audits or reviews of Mineral Resource estimates.	· The Mineral Resource estimate has been checked by an internal audit procedure.
Discussion of relative accuracy/ confidence	· Where appropriate a statement of the relative accuracy and confidence level in the Mineral Resource estimate using an approach or procedure deemed appropriate by the Competent Person. For example, the application of statistical or geostatistical procedures to quantify the relative accuracy of the resource within stated confidence limits, or, if such an approach is not deemed appropriate, a qualitative discussion of the factors that could affect the relative accuracy and confidence of the estimate. · The statement should specify whether it relates to global or local estimates, and, if local, state the relevant tonnages, which should be relevant to technical and economic evaluation. Documentation should include assumptions made and the procedures used. · These statements of relative accuracy and confidence of the estimate should be compared with production data, where available.	· The estimate utilised good estimation practices, high quality drilling, sampling and assay data. The extent and dimensions of the mineralisation are sufficiently defined by outcrop and the broad spaced drilling. The deposit is considered to have been estimated with a high level of accuracy. · The Mineral Resource statement relates to global estimates of tonnes and grade. · There is no historic production data to compare with the Mineral Resource.

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RNS metadata

Title: 200% Increase, Lithium Resource Estimate,Portugal
Time: 07:00:03
Date: 26 Feb 2018
Category: Miscellaneous
ID: 8468F