Grafton Resources Inc. has initiated an 80 line-kilometer mobile magnetotelluric heliborne survey at its Alicahue Gold-Copper Project in Valparaiso, Chile. Conducted by Expert Geophysics Surveys Inc., the survey is designed to cover the entire project area within a single day, with interpreted results anticipated in March 2026. The MobileMT technology represents a significant advancement in geophysical exploration, capable of identifying subsurface geologic structures, alteration halos, and contrasting lithologies. When integrated with complementary VLF-EM data that provides near-surface electromagnetic information, this combined methodology offers increased resolution of shallow features and aims to identify deep-seated faults, lithological contacts, and structures controlling mineral systems from surface to depths of approximately 1 to 2 kilometers, depending on the conductivity distribution of the local geology.
Campbell Smyth, Chairman of the Company, emphasized the survey's potential significance, stating that the Mobile MT data is expected to provide a three-dimensional image of the Alicahue Project area. The company hopes the survey will assist in tracing the outline of a possible porphyry centre in the southeast concession and help vector towards the origin of the IOCG vein systems and possible feeder zones to gold and copper vein mineralization mapped in the area. The technology is particularly valuable for identifying areas of electrically conductive sulphides potentially linked to mineralized porphyry intrusive centers, as well as resistive bodies representative of intrusions. This capability makes MobileMT surveys crucial for modern mineral exploration, especially in regions with complex geology like Chile's mineral-rich districts.
The Alicahue Project represents a significant exploration opportunity in a region known for its mineral potential. The rapid data collection capability of the heliborne survey allows for efficient exploration of large areas that might otherwise require extensive ground-based work. The anticipated March 2026 results timeline suggests relatively quick turnaround from data collection to interpretation, potentially accelerating the company's exploration decision-making process. This survey approach reflects the increasing sophistication of mineral exploration technologies, where advanced geophysical methods can provide critical subsurface information before committing to more expensive drilling programs. The ability to map structures controlling mineral systems from surface to significant depths represents a substantial improvement over traditional exploration methods, potentially reducing both exploration risk and environmental impact through more targeted investigation. For investors and stakeholders seeking additional information about the company's regulatory filings and risk disclosures, detailed documentation is available through the Canadian securities regulatory system at https://www.sedarplus.ca.
