Current Platinum-Group Exploration Targets

Exploration for the platinum-group elements (PGE) is currently receiving world-wide attention as an attractive target for investment. This is because the PGE offer the dual attraction of the status of rare, high value precious metals as well as major industrial uses. In particular PGE are widely used in the car industry to meet exhaust emission control standards. Current PGE exploration targets, such as the Marathon and Crystal Lake Intrusions of Ontario, the Carlingford Complex of Ireland and the Aberdeenshire Intrusives of Scotland were initially evaluated during the 1960s as part of the world-wide interest in nickel exploration. Others such as the Alaskan-type Tulameen Complex of British Columbia have in the past been producers of placer platinum. Ophiolite sequences may also have PGE potential. Proposed new production is expected from the Lac des Iles intrusion of Ontario, but will be small compared with output from the Bushveld Complex of South Africa.