Petrogenesis and geochemistry of mineralized Midcontinent Rift intrusions

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This project will investigate the mineralized intrusions of the Thunder Bay North (TBN) igneous complex, part of the 1.1 Ga Midcontinent Rift, and compare them to barren and weakly mineralized intrusions. The project will train three MSc, three HBSc and one PDF to complete an integrated program of research to complete three key opjectives. Over the next three years the project will investigate the intrusive units of the Thunder Bay North property by: 1) Characterising the petrology, geochemistry and geochronology of the various intrusive units found within the property, 2) Characterising the geochemistry and petrography of the sulfide mineralisation of the Escape Lake and Current Lake intrusions and 3) Integrating new mineralogical and geochemical data to build a holistic model for the property and establish vectors towards mineralization within and around the intrusions that will aid in exploration for addition Ni-Cu-PGE and massive sulfide resources. This study will utilize fundamental geological mapping and logging combined with traditional and state-of-the-art analytical techniques to characterize the intrusive history and paragenesis of the mineralization at TBN. By so doing we will train young researchers in the key skills necessary for a successful career in the geosciences whether in academia, government or industry.The data generated in this study will be used to develop a model(s) for the Escape Lake and Thunder Bay North deposits that Clean Air Metals can use to enhance their exploration efforts, and hopefully lead to mineral production. This project will contribute significantly to our understanding of the processes that form high grade zones within magmatic Ni-Cu-PGE systems and develop tools that can be applied by Canadian companies to aid in generating future discoveries. The discovery and development of new mineral resources is critical to the well-being of Canada's economy and this project will lead to greater efficiencies in that process.