Research News (June 01, 2003)

Industry-oriented research group established in Quebec

MONTREAL, QUE.–The recent trend in Quebec’s exploration industry toward non-traditional substances and environments has prompted 27 geoscientists from universities across the province to establish Divex (Diversification of Mineral Exploration). This new research group aims to support current exploration developments by funding 16 projects within the four major themes of diamonds, platinum group elements, high grade metamorphic terrains, and sedimentary environments. Financing was made possible by a major, $1.6-million government grant from Valorisation-Recherche Qubec.

First year results have been promising, especially for platinum group element mobility, Cu-Pb-Zn exploration in sedimentary rocks, and the use of rutile as an indicator mineral for metamorphosed deposits. “We are very encouraged by the interest from the mineral industry,” said Michel Jbrak, co-director of the project and professor at the University of Quebec in Montreal. “There are numerous implications, both short- and long-term, for improving exploration models.”

Interested parties can sign up for the annual report at [email protected] or through the web site at www.divex.ca.