Marmota Limited has significantly expanded its titanium mineral sands discovery at the Muckanippie project in South Australia. A review of historical drill samples has confirmed the presence of high-value leucoxene, stretching the potential strike length of the deposit to an impressive 9km.
As The Age reports, this development places Marmota in a stronger position within the critical minerals sector, with titanium being a key material for aerospace, energy storage, and industrial applications. The discovery aligns with growing demand for strategic minerals, potentially boosting Australia’s role as a global supplier. .
Titanium Discovery Expanded Through Historical Drill Samples
Marmota’s breakthrough stems from an analysis of heavy mineral samples initially drilled in 2009 by Flinders Mines (now Red Hawk Mining). The company found that 100% of the leucoxene mineral was present in all concentrate samples. The samples were visually examined under a stereomicroscope, confirming the presence of titanium-rich material.
These drill samples were located at the western edge of Marmota’s tenement, adjacent to the company’s November 2024 discovery. If further drilling validates continuity across the entire 9km stretch, Muckanippie could emerge as a major titanium mineral sands deposit.
Leucoxene’s High Value and Strategic Significance
Leucoxene is a fine-grained mineral with high titanium dioxide content, making it valuable for paint, sunscreen, and industrial coatings. It is also essential in the defence, aerospace, and semiconductor industries, given its corrosion resistance and ability to withstand extreme conditions.
Titanium is categorised as a critical mineral by Australia, the US, the EU, and Japan, underscoring its importance in future technologies. The increasing demand for high-grade titanium deposits places Marmota’s discovery in a strategic position for potential commercialisation.
Drilling Results Confirm Continuity and Scale of Mineralisation
The historical drill data included two core samples, tested by the Diatech Heavy Mineral Services laboratory in 2009. One sample, taken at 15m depth, and another at 27m to 30m, both returned 100% leucoxene content. The two drill points were 277m apart, supporting the interpretation of a large-scale titanium-bearing paleochannel.
Further exploration in November and January confirmed thick titanium dioxide intervals in new drill holes, with up to 19.2% heavy minerals over 28m. The mineralisation was found from surface, indicating a potentially extensive, easily accessible resource.
Potential Impact on Australia’s Mineral Supply Chain
Titanium’s widespread applications, make it a sought-after resource. With market forecasts predicting increased demand, discoveries like Marmota’s could bolster Australia’s position as a global supplier of critical minerals.
Marmota’s next steps involve additional drilling to confirm continuity and assess the deposit’s economic viability.
