Apollo Minerals has announced the successful completion of a detailed airborne geophysical survey over its Couflens Project, conducted in partnership with the French Geological Survey (BRGM) and its subsidiary, BRGM Explore. This initiative is part of the nationwide mineral resources inventory project, known as the Inventaire des Ressources Minérales (IRM Project), undertaken by the BRGM on behalf of the French government. The survey aims to enhance the understanding of France’s mineral resources and secure access to critical raw materials essential for the energy transition and digital advancements, as well as to support industrial decarbonisation efforts.
The Couflens Project encompasses the historically significant Salau mine, which was once one of the highest-grade tungsten operations globally, with an average mining grade of 1.5% WO3 during its operational years from 1971 to 1986. The recent geophysical survey covered 180 line kilometres across approximately 19 square kilometres, employing helicopter-borne magnetic and radiometric techniques. This survey was part of a broader 500-metre spaced regional survey conducted by the BRGM in the Pyrénées region.
The results from this geophysical survey are expected to significantly enhance exploration targeting, refine geological models, and improve structural interpretations of the area. The Couflens site is considered strategically vital for the security and resilience of France’s supply chains, particularly in light of the European Union’s Critical Raw Materials Act adopted in 2023, which aims to bolster the availability of essential materials for future technologies.
Apollo Minerals is committed to advancing the Couflens Project while adhering to best-in-class environmental practices, working closely with the French State and local stakeholders. This collaboration not only underscores the importance of the project in the context of France’s mineral resource strategy but also highlights the growing emphasis on sustainable mining practices in the industry.
