Zircon Association with Monazite and REE Targets

Zircon has been identified within the monazite-bearing mineral sands and hard-rock samples previously assayed on Palmerville Station. Its presence is significant, as zircon commonly occurs alongside monazite in REE-enriched systems and can provide an additional valuable mineral stream.

As part of our Rare Earth Element exploration program, these zircon-rich zones will be further evaluated to determine grade, distribution, and potential for co-recovery. Assessing zircon alongside monazite and the broader REE suite may enhance overall project economics through multi-commodity processing and export opportunities.

Zirconium bolsters military systems with its low neutron absorption, corrosion resistance, and high-temperature strength, making it vital for nuclear propulsion and advanced armor. In naval reactors (e.g., U.S. Virginia-class submarines and Nimitz carriers), zirconium cladding encases fuel rods to prevent hydrogen embrittlement and fission product release; it also lines missile reentry vehicles like the Trident D5 for thermal protection during hypersonic descent. On land, zirconium oxide ceramics reinforce composite armors in vehicles such as the Stryker, while zirconium-based alloys stabilize high-energy propellants in rocket motors and enhance the durability of drone heat shields.

Supply risks heighten its geopolitical edge: Australia produces ~40% of global zircon sand, followed by South Africa and China at ~30% combined, with refining concentrated in the U.S., France, and China. The U.S. DoD identifies zirconium as a critical mineral, stockpiling it in the National Defense Stockpile and supporting domestic processing (e.g., via Orbite Technologies' Quebec facility expansions). A mining halt or export restriction could cripple nuclear submarine refits within 6–12 months and limit hypersonic weapon yields, positioning zirconium control as a linchpin in undersea and strategic deterrence operations.