EX-99.1 2 ex99_1.htm EXHIBIT 99.1
Exhibit 99.1


ASX RELEASE | August 23, 2018 | ASX:PLL; NASDAQ:PLLL

DRILLING UPDATE AND FINAL HOLES REPORTED FOR THE PHASE 3 DRILLING ON THE CORE PROPERTY

·
Piedmont has received assay results from the final 15 drill holes of the Phase 3 drilling campaign on its Core property, showing high-grade mineralisation including:


o
15.8m of cumulative thickness of mineralization (non-continuous) across 4 pegmatites which includes high grade intercepts of 8.2m @ 1.91% Li2O, 3.2m @1.25 Li2O and 2.8m @1.05 Li2O in Hole 18-BD-236


o
21.3m of cumulative thickness of mineralization (non-continuous) across 6 dikes which includes high grade intercepts of 6.0m @1.31% Li2O and 7.45m 1.04% Li2O in Hole 18-BD-237


o
18.5m of cumulative thickness of mineralization (non-continuous) across 3 pegmatites which includes high grade intercepts of 13.0m @ 1.06% Li2O and 4.4m @1.11 Li2O in Hole 18-BD-238

·
Most of the holes are from outside the maiden Mineral Resource estimate of 16.2Mt at 1.12% Li2O, reported in June 2018, confirming upside potential for the resource.

·
Seven holes completed at our Sunnyside Property, totalling 911 meters, with assays pending.

·
Two of the three planned holes completed at our Central Property, with assays pending.



Piedmont Lithium Limited (“Piedmont” or “Company”) is pleased to advise that the Company has now received all assays results from the Phase 3 drilling campaign on its Core property in the Carolina Tin-Spodumene Belt (“TSB”) in North Carolina, United States. The final 15 holes reported in this release will complete the Phase 3 campaign, totalling 124 holes and 21,360 meters, on our Core property.

The 15 holes reported were not used in the maiden Mineral Resource estimate of 16.2 Mt at 1.12% Li2O (refer ASX announced dated June 14, 2018).  The majority of the 15 holes occur outside of the resource boundary and confirm upside potential for our Project.

Assay results from the initial drilling on the Sunnyside and Central properties are pending and results are expected to be announced in the month of September.

Keith D. Phillips, President and Chief Executive Officer, said, “These results demonstrate the potential to expand the resource on our Core property, and we are optimistic that the Sunnyside and Central properties hold significant potential as well.  Our Scoping Study demonstrated the strong economics of a 13-year project based on our current resource, and we believe future drilling may extend the project life and enhance the project economics as well as the strategic value of this unique American resource.”

For further information, contact:

Keith D. Phillips
Anastasios (Taso) Arima
President & CEO
Executive Director
T: +1 973 809 0505
T: +1 347 899 1522
E: kphillips@piedmontlithium.com
E: tarima@piedmontlithium.com




Piedmont Lithium Project Drill Location Map

Phase 3 Results and Discussion

The Phase 3 drilling campaign, 124 holes totalling 21,363 meters, consisted of infill drilling along the trends defined by the Phase 2 program and exploratory drilling of targets with little or no prior drilling. The results of 15 holes in this release (refer Appendix 1) are the final results from the Core property and mark the completion of the Phase 3 campaign on the Core property.  Assay results are pending from the initial drilling at our Sunnyside Property and initial drilling is underway at our Central Property.

Results from these 15 holes were not received prior to the resource cut-off date and thus were not included in the maiden Mineral Resource estimate of 16.2 Mt at 1.12% Li2O, published on June 14, 2018.

Of the 15 holes in this release, all but one (hole 18-BD-237) was classified as exploratory.  Twelve of the 15 encountered similar results consistent with the prior 109 holes reported for the Phase 3 campaign. 

2

Locally, some very high grades were reported, such as in hole 18-BD-236 (Figure 2) where 8.2 meters at 1.91% Li2O was encountered within a single pegmatite.

The majority of these holes occur outside of the resource constraining shell and confirm upside exploration potential for the property. Specifically, holes 18-BD-238 to 18-BD-246 all encountered mineralization along strike southwest of the F corridor resource blocks where significant exploration potential had been identified.  Holes 18-BD-238 and 18-BD-241 both had single pegmatite intercepts over 10 meters drill thickness, 13.0 meters at 1.06% Li2O and 10.6 meters at 1.46% Li2O respectively.

Hole 18-BD-235 also confirmed down dip exploration potential of the F Corridor resource blocks with an intercept of 4.2 meters at 1.10% Li2O.

 

Figure 2:  Piedmont Lithium Project Cross Section

Sunnyside and Central Properties

At our Sunnyside property, seven holes totaling 911 meters have been completed, with assays pending.  Two of the three planned holes at our Central property have been completed and the core is currently being logged and sampled.  The third and final hole is expected to be completed in the next week.  All of the initial drilling at the Sunnyside and Central properties targeted spodumene pegmatite outcrop and sub crop occurrences.

In addition, magnetometer and soil sampling surveys have been completed on both properties.  Results of both surveys are expected in the coming weeks and will aid in geologic interpretations and drill hole targeting.

3


Figure 3:  Piedmont Lithium Properties

4

About Piedmont Lithium

Piedmont Lithium Limited (ASX: PLL; NASDAQ: PLLL) holds a 100% interest in the Piedmont Lithium Project (“Project”) located within the world-class Carolina Tin-Spodumene Belt (“TSB”) and along trend to the Hallman Beam and Kings Mountain mines, historically providing most of the western world’s lithium between the 1950s and the 1990s.  The TSB has been described as one of the largest lithium provinces in the world and is located approximately 25 miles west of Charlotte, North Carolina.  It is a premier location to be developing and integrated lithium business based on its favourable geology, proven metallurgy and easy access to infrastructure, power, R&D centres for lithium and battery storage, major high-tech population centres and downstream lithium processing facilities.



 
Piedmont Lithium Location and Bessemer City Lithium Processing Plant (FMC, Top Right) and Kings Mountain Lithium Processing Facility (Albemarle, Bottom Right)

The Project was originally explored by Lithium Corporation of America which eventually was acquired by FMC Corporation (“FMC”). FMC and Albemarle Corporation (“Albemarle”) both historically mined the lithium bearing spodumene pegmatites within the TSB and developed and continue to operate the two world-class lithium processing facilities in the region which were the first modern spodumene processing facilities in the western world. The Company is in a unique position to leverage its position as a first mover in restarting exploration in this historic lithium producing region with the aim of developing a strategic, U.S. domestic source of lithium to supply the increasing electric vehicle and battery storage markets.

Piedmont, through its 100% owned U.S. subsidiary, Piedmont Lithium Inc., has entered into exclusive option agreements and land acquisition agreements with local landowners, which upon exercise, allow the Company to purchase (or in some cases long-term lease) approximately 1,200 acres of surface property and the associated mineral rights.

 
Mineral Resource Estimate for the Piedmont Lithium Project (0.4% cut-off)
 
Category
Resource (Mt)
Grade (Li2O%)
Li2O (t)
LCE (t)
 
Indicated
8.50
1.15
98,000
242,000
 
Inferred
7.70
1.09
84,000
208,000
 
Total
16.19
1.12
182,000
450,000

5

Forward Looking Statements

This announcement may include forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on Piedmont’s expectations and beliefs concerning future events. Forward looking statements are necessarily subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside the control of Piedmont, which could cause actual results to differ materially from such statements. Piedmont makes no undertaking to subsequently update or revise the forward-looking statements made in this announcement, to reflect the circumstances or events after the date of that announcement.

Cautionary Note to United States Investors Concerning Estimates of Measured, Indicated and Inferred Mineral Resources

The information contained herein has been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the securities laws in effect in Australia, which differ from the requirements of United States securities laws. The terms "mineral resource", "measured mineral resource", "indicated mineral resource" and "inferred mineral resource" are Australian mining terms defined in accordance with the 2012 Edition of the Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves (the “JORC Code”).  However, these terms are not defined in Industry Guide 7 ("SEC Industry Guide 7") under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act"), and are normally not permitted to be used in reports and filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). Accordingly, information contained herein that describes Piedmont’s mineral deposits may not be comparable to similar information made public by U.S. companies subject to reporting and disclosure requirements under the U.S. federal securities laws and the rules and regulations thereunder. U.S. investors are urged to consider closely the disclosure in Piedmont’s Form 20-F, a copy of which may be obtained from Piedmont or from the EDGAR system on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov/.

Competent Persons Statement

The information in this announcement that relates to Exploration Results is based on, and fairly represents, information compiled or reviewed by Mr. Lamont Leatherman, a Competent Person who is a Registered Member of the ‘Society for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration’, a ‘Recognized Professional Organization’ (RPO). Mr. Leatherman is a consultant to the Company. Mr. Leatherman has sufficient experience that is relevant to the style of mineralization and type of deposit under consideration and to the activity being undertaken to qualify as a Competent Person as defined in the 2012 Edition of the ‘Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves’. Mr. Leatherman consents to the inclusion in the report of the matters based on his information in the form and context in which it appears.

The information in this announcement that relates to Exploration Targets and Mineral Resources is extracted from the Company’s ASX announcement dated June 14, 2018 which is available to view on the Company’s website at www.piedmontlithium.com. The information in the original ASX announcement that related to Exploration Targets and Mineral Resources was based on, and fairly represents, information compiled by Mr Leon McGarry, a Competent Person who is a Professional Geoscientist (P.Geo.) and registered member of the ‘Association of Professional Geoscientists of Ontario’ (APGO no. 2348), a ‘Recognized Professional Organization’ (RPO). Mr McGarry is a Senior Resource Geologist and full-time employee at CSA Global Geoscience Canada Ltd. Mr McGarry has sufficient experience which is relevant to the style of mineralization and type of deposit under consideration and to the activity which he is undertaking to qualify as a Competent Person as defined in the 2012 Edition of the ‘Australasian Code for Reporting of Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves’.

The information in this announcement that relates to Metallurgical Testwork Results is extracted from the Company’s ASX announcement dated July 17, 2018 which is available to view on the Company’s website at www.piedmontlithium.com. The information in the original ASX announcement that related to Metallurgical Testwork Results was based on, and fairly represents, information compiled or reviewed by Dr. Hamid Akbari, a Competent Person who is a Registered Member of the ‘Society for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration’, a ‘Recognized Professional Organization’ (RPO). Dr. Akbari is a consultant to the Company. Dr. Akbari has sufficient experience that is relevant to the style of mineralisation and type of deposit under consideration and to the activity being undertaken to qualify as a Competent Person as defined in the 2012 Edition of the ‘Australasian Code for Reporting of Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves’.

The information in this announcement that relates to Process Design, Process Plant Capital Costs, and Process Plant Operating Costs is extracted from the Company’s ASX announcement dated July 19, 2018 which is available to view on the Company’s website at www.piedmontlithium.com. The information in the original ASX announcement that related to Process Design, Process Plant Capital Costs, and Process Plant Operating Costs was based on, and fairly represents, information compiled or reviewed by Mr. Kiedock Kim, a Competent Person who is a Registered Member of ‘Professional Engineers Ontario’, a ‘Recognized Professional Organization’ (RPO). Mr. Kim is full-time employee of Primero Group. Mr. Kim has sufficient experience that is relevant to the style of mineralisation and type of deposit under consideration and to the activity being undertaken to qualify as a Competent Person as defined in the 2012 Edition of the ‘Australasian Code for Reporting of Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves’.

The information in this announcement that relates to Mining Engineering and Mine Schedule is extracted from the Company’s ASX announcement dated July 19, 2018 which is available to view on the Company’s website at www.piedmontlithium.com. The information in the original ASX announcement that related to Mining Engineering and Mine Schedule was based on, and fairly represents, information compiled or reviewed by Mr. Karl van Olden, a Competent Person who is a Fellow of The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. Mr. van Olden is full-time employee of CSA Global. Mr. van Olden has sufficient experience that is relevant to the style of mineralisation and type of deposit under consideration and to the activity being undertaken to qualify as a Competent Person as defined in the 2012 Edition of the ‘Australasian Code for Reporting of Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves’.

Piedmont confirms that: a) it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information included in the original ASX announcements; b) all material assumptions and technical parameters underpinning Mineral Resources, Exploration Targets, Production Targets, and related forecast financial information derived from Production Targets included in the original ASX announcements continue to apply and have not materially changed; and c) the form and context in which the relevant Competent Persons’ findings are presented in this report have not been materially modified from the original ASX announcements.

6

Appendix 1: Summary of Core Drill Hole Intersections

 
Hole ID
Easting
Northing
Elev.
(m)
Az.
(o)
Dip
(o)
Depth
(m)
 
From
(m)
To
(m)
Intercept
(m)
Li2O
(%)
 
18-BD-232
473228.9
3915794.8
267.6
300.0
-55.7
143.50
 
No significant intercepts
 
18-BD-233
474202.6
3916353.0
248.6
299.0
-52.8
151.0
 
No significant intercepts
 
18-BD-234
473110.8
3915774.3
259.8
302.0
-56.2
100.0
 
No significant intercepts
 
18-BD-235
474336.1
3915458.5
266.6
300.0
-55.7
230.0
 
153.32
157.54
4.22
1.10
               
and
215.45
218.00
2.55
1.45
 
18-BD-236
474085.7
3915680.7
253.9
297.0
-54.5
152.0
 
60.23
61.84
1.61
1.03
               
and
68.30
76.53
8.23
1.91
               
including
68.30
71.30
3.00
3.24
               
and
122.70
125.88
3.18
1.25
               
and
139.20
142.00
2.80
1.05
 
18-BD-237
473377.1
3916132.8
261.6
302.0
-47.1
75.0
 
0.20
6.20
6.00
1.31
               
and
12.52
19.97
7.45
1.04
               
and
25.62
28.26
2.64
1.59
               
and
39.73
41.83
2.10
0.74
               
and
44.62
46.28
1.66
0.68
               
and
52.88
54.34
1.46
0.89
 
18-BD-238
473894.1
3915359.3
261.9
303.0
-54.9
170.0
 
62.38
75.35
12.97
1.06
               
including
62.38
67.38
5.00
2.18
               
and
128.96
130.03
1.07
1.11
               
and
159.45
163.88
4.43
1.11
 
18-BD-239
474037.5
3915560.1
257.3
301.0
-55.1
150.0
 
97.70
103.30
5.60
0.81
               
including
99.70
102.70
3.00
1.19
               
and
128.05
131.17
3.12
1.04
 
18-BD-240
473945.3
3915482.0
256.9
300.0
-55.0
69.0
 
67.13
69.00
1.87
1.72
 
18-BD-241
473854.9
3915323.5
267.2
303.0
-57.5
170.0
 
47.42
48.56
1.14
1.25
               
and
64.25
74.85
10.60
1.46
               
including
65.25
68.25
3.00
2.28
               
and
159.77
162.86
3.09
1.67
 
18-BD-242
473944.1
3915480.2
263.7
306.0
-55.5
87.10
 
62.70
71.23
8.53
1.76
               
including
62.70
67.70
5.00
2.26
 
18-BD-243
473777.9
3915225.1
266.9
301.0
-55.7
170.0
 
56.00
57.71
1.71
1.27
 
18-BD-244
474048.9
3915450.2
261.0
307.0
-44.0
231.0
 
31.52
34.38
2.96
1.43
               
and
48.28
49.56
1.28
1.21
               
and
150.20
154.27
4.07
1.54
               
and
165.12
168.18
3.06
1.39
               
and
202.68
204.68
2.00
0.88
 
18-BD-245
473827.0
3915156.7
273.8
298.0
-54.3
195.7
 
24.44
27.00
2.56
0.94
               
and
41.50
45.36
3.86
0.94
               
and
53.40
56.38
2.98
1.67
               
and
162.95
166.46
3.51
0.63
               
including
162.95
163.95
1.00
1.36
 
18-BD-246
473870.6
3915242.4
264.4
307.0
-54.9
158.0
 
69.00
70.40
1.40
0.61
               
and
92.58
94.23
1.65
0.59
               
and
131.72
137.96
6.24
1.05

7

Appendix 2: JORC Table 1 Checklist of Assessment and Reporting Criteria

Section 1 Sampling Techniques and Data

 
Criteria
 
JORC Code explanation
   
Commentary
 
 
Sampling
techniques
 
>  Nature and quality of sampling (e.g. cut channels, random chips, or specific specialised industry standard measurement tools appropriate to the minerals under investigation, such as downhole gamma sondes, or handheld XRF instruments, etc.). These examples should not be taken as limiting the broad meaning of sampling.

>  Include reference to measures taken to ensure sample representivity and the appropriate calibration of any measurement tools or systems used.

>  Aspects of the determination of mineralisation that are Material to the Public Report. In cases where ‘industry standard’ work has been done this would be relatively simple (e.g. ‘reverse circulation drilling was used to obtain 1 m samples from which 3 kg was pulverised to produce a 30 g charge for fire assay’). In other cases more explanation may be required, such as where there is coarse gold that has inherent sampling problems. Unusual commodities or mineralisation types (e.g. submarine nodules) may warrant disclosure of detailed information.
   
All results reported are from diamond core samples. The core was sawn at an orientation not influenced by the distribution of mineralization within the drill core (i.e. bisecting mineralized veins or cut perpendicular to a fabric in the rock that is independent of mineralization, such as foliation). Diamond drilling provided continuous core which allowed continuous sampling of mineralized zones.  The core sample intervals were a minimum of 0.35m and a maximum of 1.5m for HQ or NQ drill core (except in saprolitic areas of poor recovery where sample intervals may exceed 1.5m in length) and took into account lithological boundaries (i.e. sample was to, and not across, major contacts).

Standards and blanks were inserted into the sample stream to assess the accuracy, precision and methodology of the external laboratories used. In addition, field duplicate samples were inserted to assess the variability of the mineralisation., The laboratories undertake their own duplicate sampling as part of their internal QA/QC processes. Examination of the QA/QC sample data indicates satisfactory performance of field sampling protocols and assay laboratories providing acceptable levels of precision and accuracy.
 
 
 
Drilling
techniques
 
>  Drill type (e.g. core, reverse circulation, open-hole hammer, rotary air blast, auger, Bangka, sonic, etc.) and details (e.g. core diameter, triple or standard tube, depth of diamond tails, face-sampling bit or other type, whether core is oriented and if so, by what method, etc.).
   
All diamond drill holes were collared with HQ and were transitioned to NQ once non-weathered and unoxidized bedrock was encountered.  Drill core was recovered from surface.

Oriented core was collected on select drill holes using the REFLEX ACT III tool by a qualified geologist at the drill rig. The orientation data is currently being evaluated.
 
 
Drill sample
recovery
 
>  Method of recording and assessing core and chip sample recoveries and results assessed.

>  Measures taken to maximise sample recovery and ensure representative nature of the samples.

>  Whether a relationship exists between sample recovery and grade and whether sample bias may have occurred due to preferential loss/gain of fine/coarse material.
   
The core was transported from the drill site to the logging facility in covered boxes with the utmost care. Once at the logging facility, the following procedures were carried out on the core:

1.    Re-aligning the broken core in its original position as closely as possible.

2.    The length of recovered core was measured, and meter marks clearly placed on the core to indicate depth to the nearest centimetre.

3.   The length of core recovered was used to determine the core recovery, which is the length of core recovered divided by the interval drilled (as indicated by the footage marks which was converted to meter marks), expressed as a percentage. This data was recorded in the database. The core was photographed wet before logged.

4.    The core was photographed again immediately before sampling with the sample numbers visible.

Sample recovery was consistently good except for zones within the oxidized clay and saprolite zones.  These zones were generally within the top 20m of the hole.  No relationship is recognized between recovery and grade.  The drill holes were designed to intersect the targeted pegmatite below the oxidized zone.
 
 
Logging
 
>  Whether core and chip samples have been geologically and geotechnically logged to a level of detail to support appropriate Mineral Resource estimation, mining studies and metallurgical studies.

>  Whether logging is qualitative or quantitative in nature. Core (or costean, channel, etc.) photography.

>  The total length and percentage of the relevant intersections logged.
   
Geologically, data was collected in detail, sufficient to aid in Mineral Resource estimation.

Core logging consisted of marking the core, describing lithologies, geologic features, percentage of spodumene and structural features measured to core axis.

The core was photographed wet before logging and again immediately before sampling with the sample numbers visible.

All the core from the fifteen holes reported was logged.
 

8

 
Criteria
 
JORC Code explanation
   
Commentary
 
 
Sub-sampling
techniques
and sample preparation
 
>  If core, whether cut or sawn and whether quarter, half or all core taken.

>  If non-core, whether riffled, tube sampled, rotary split, etc. and whether sampled wet or dry.

>  For all sample types, the nature, quality and appropriateness of the sample preparation technique.

>  Quality control procedures adopted for all sub-sampling stages to maximise representivity of samples.

>  Measures taken to ensure that the sampling is representative of the in situ material collected, including for instance results for field duplicate/second-half sampling.

>  Whether sample sizes are appropriate to the grain size of the material being sampled.
   
Core was cut in half with a diamond saw.

Standard sample intervals were a minimum of 0.35m and a maximum of 1.5m for HQ or NQ drill core, taking into account lithological boundaries (i.e. sample to, and not across, major contacts).

The preparation code is CRU21 (crush to 75% of sample <2mm) and PUL45 (pulverize 250g to 85% <75 microns).

A CRM or coarse blank was included at the rate of one for every 20 drill core samples (i.e. 5%).

Sampling precision is monitored by selecting a sample interval likely to be mineralized and splitting the sample into two ¼ core duplicate samples over the same sample interval. These samples are consecutively numbered after the primary sample and recorded in the sample database as “field duplicates” and the primary sample number recorded. Field duplicates were collected at the rate of 1 in 20 samples when sampling mineralized drill core intervals

Samples were numbered sequentially with no duplicates and no missing numbers. Triple tag books using 9-digit numbers were used, with one tag inserted into the sample bag and one tag stapled or otherwise affixed into the core tray at the interval the sample was collected. Samples were placed inside pre-numbered sample bags with numbers coinciding to the sample tag. Quality control (QC) samples, consisting of certified reference materials (CRMs), were given sample numbers within the sample stream so that they are masked from the laboratory after sample preparation and to avoid any duplication of sample numbers.
 
 
Quality of assay
data and
laboratory tests
 
>  The nature, quality and appropriateness of the assaying and laboratory procedures used and whether the technique is considered partial or total.

>  For geophysical tools, spectrometers, handheld XRF instruments, etc., the parameters used in determining the analysis including instrument make and model, reading times, calibrations factors applied and their derivation, etc.

>  Nature of quality control procedures adopted (e.g. standards, blanks, duplicates, external laboratory checks) and whether acceptable levels of accuracy (i.e. lack of bias) and precision have been established.
 
   
All samples from the Phase II and Phase III drilling were shipped to the SGS laboratory in Lakefield, Ontario.

The preparation code was CRU21 (crush to 75% of sample <2mm) and PUL45 (pulverize 250g to 85% <75 microns).

The analyses code was GE ICM40B (multi-acid digestion with either an ICP-ES or ICP-MS finish), which has a range for Li of 1 to 10,000 (1%) ppm Li.

The over-range method code for Li >5,000 ppm is GE ICP90A, which uses a peroxide fusion with an ICP finish, and has lower and upper detection limits of 0.001 and 5% respectively.

Starting in August 2017, samples were switched to being analysed using GE ICP90A Li only and then to GE ICP91A Li only.

Bulk Densities are collected from each drill hole (one host rock and one mineralized rock) using analyses code GPHY04V.

Phase I samples were shipped to the Bureau Veritas minerals laboratory in Reno, Nevada.

The preparation code was PRP70-250 (crush to 70% of sample <2mm, pulverize 250g to 85% <75 microns).

The analysis code was MA270 (multi-acid digestion with either an ICP-ES or ICP-MS finish), which has a range for Li of 0.5 to 10,000 ppm (1%) Li. This digestion provides only partial analyses for many elements in refractory minerals, including Ta and Nb. It does not include analyses for Cs.

The over-range method code for Li>10,000 ppm is PF370, which uses a peroxide fusion with an ICP-ES finish and has lower and upper detection limits of 0.001 and 50%, respectively. The laboratory was instructed to implement the over-range method in all samples that exceed 5,000 ppm Li to allow for poor data precision near the upper limit of detection using MA270.

Historical samples (holes 09-BD-01 through 10-BD-19) were submitted to ALS Vancouver for analysis.

Accuracy monitoring was achieved through submission and monitoring of certified reference materials (CRMs).

Sample numbering and the inclusion of CRMs was the responsibility of the project geologist submitting the samples. A CRM or coarse blank was included at the rate of one for every 20 drill core samples (i.e. 5%).

The CRMs used for this program were supplied by Geostats Pty Ltd of Perth, Western Australia.  Details of the CRMs are provided below. A sequence of these CRMs covering a range in Li values and, including blanks, were submitted to the laboratory along with all dispatched samples so as to ensure each run of 100 samples contains the full range of control materials. The CRMs were submitted as “blind” control samples not identifiable by the laboratory.

Details of CRMs used in the drill program (all values ppm):
 

9

 
Criteria
 
JORC Code explanation
   
Commentary
 
           

CRM
 
Manufacturer
 
Lithium
 
1 Std Dev
   

 
GTA-01
 
Geostats
 
3132
 
129
 

 
GTA-02
 
Geostats
 
1715
 
64
 

 
GTA-03
 
Geostats
 
7782
 
175
 

 
GTA-04
 
Geostats
 
9275
 
213
 

 
GTA-06
 
Geostats
 
7843
 
126
 

 
GTA-09
 
Geostats
 
4837
 
174
 

Sampling precision was monitored by selecting a sample interval likely to be mineralized and splitting the sample into two ¼ core duplicate samples over the same sample interval. These samples were consecutively numbered after the primary sample and recorded in the sample database as “field duplicates” and the primary sample number recorded. Field duplicates were collected at the rate of 1 in 20 samples when sampling mineralized drill core intervals. Random sampling precision was monitored by splitting samples at the sample crushing stage (coarse crush duplicate) and at the final sub-sampling stage for analysis (pulp duplicates).  The coarse, jaw-crushed, reject material was split into two preparation duplicates, sometimes referred to as second cuts, crusher or preparation duplicates, which were then pulverized and analysed separately. These duplicate samples were selected randomly by the laboratory. Analytical precision was also monitored using pulp duplicates, sometimes referred to as replicates or repeats. Data from all three types of duplicate analyses was used to constrain sampling variance at different stages of the sampling and preparation process.

Examination of the QA/QC sample data indicates satisfactory performance of field sampling protocols and assay laboratories providing acceptable levels of precision and accuracy.
 
Verification of
sampling and
assaying
 
>  The verification of significant intersections by either independent or alternative company personnel.

>  The use of twinned holes.

>  Documentation of primary data, data entry procedures, data verification, data storage (physical and electronic) protocols.

>   Discuss any adjustment to assay data.
   
Multiple representatives of Piedmont Lithium, Inc. have inspected and verified the results.

CSA has conducted multiple site visits. Dennis Arne (Managing Director -Principal Consultant) toured the site, facilities and reviewed core logging and sampling workflow as well as Leon McGarry (Senior Resource Geologist). Each provided comments on how to improve our methods and have been addressed. Verification core samples were collected by Leon McGarry.

No holes were twinned.

Ten-foot rods and core barrels were used, the core was converted from feet to meters.  Li% was converted to Li2O by multiplying Li% by 2.153.
 
 
Location of data
points
 
>  Accuracy and quality of surveys used to locate drill holes (collar and down-hole surveys), trenches, mine workings and other locations used in Mineral Resource estimation.

>   Specification of the grid system used.

>  Quality and adequacy of topographic control.
   
Drill collars were located with the Trimble Geo 7 which resulted in accuracies <1m.

All coordinates were collected in State Plane and re-projected to Nad83 zone17 in which they are reported.

Drill hole surveying was performed on each hole using a REFLEX EZ-Trac multi-shot instrument. Readings were taken approx. every 15 meters (50 feet) and recorded depth, azimuth, and inclination.
 
 
Data spacing
and distribution
 
>  Data spacing for reporting of Exploration Results.

>  Whether the data spacing and distribution is sufficient to establish the degree of geological and grade continuity appropriate for the Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve estimation procedure(s) and classifications applied.

>  Whether sample compositing has been applied.
   
For selected areas, the drill spacing is approximately 40 to 80 m along strike and down dip.  This spacing is sufficient to establish continuity in geology and grade for this pegmatite system.

Composite samples are reported in Li2O%, this is calculated by multiplying drill length by Li2O for each sample; then the weighted averages for multiple samples are totalled and divided by the total drill length for the selected samples
 
 
 
Orientation of
data in relation
to geological
structure
 
>  Whether the orientation of sampling achieves unbiased sampling of possible structures and the extent to which this is known, considering the deposit type.

>  If the relationship between the drilling orientation and the orientation of key mineralised structures is considered to have introduced a sampling bias, this should be assessed and reported if material.
   
The pegmatite dikes targeted trend northeast and dip to the southeast, drillholes were designed, oriented to the northwest with inclinations ranging from -45 to -80 degrees, to best intersect the tabular pegmatite bodies as close to perpendicularly as possible.
 
 
Sample security
 
>  The measures taken to ensure sample security.
   
Drill core samples were shipped directly from the core shack by the project geologist in sealed rice bags or similar containers using a reputable transport company with shipment tracking capability so that a chain of custody can be maintained.  Each bag was sealed with a security strap with a unique security number. The containers were locked in a shed if they were stored overnight at any point during transit, including at the drill site prior to shipping. The laboratory confirmed the integrity of the rice bag seals upon receipt
 

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Criteria
 
JORC Code explanation
   
Commentary
 
 
Audits or
reviews
 
>  The results of any audits or reviews of sampling techniques and data.
   
CSA Global developed a “Standard Operating Procedures” manual in preparation for the drilling program.  CSA global reviews all logging and assay data, as well as merges all data in to database that is held off site.

CSA has conducted multiple site visits. Dennis Arne (Managing Director -Principal Consultant) toured the site and facilities as well as Leon McGarry (Senior Resource Geologist). Each provided comments on how to improve our methods and have been addressed. Verification core samples were collected by Leon McGarry.
 

Section 2 Reporting of Exploration Results

 
Criteria
 
JORC Code explanation
   
Commentary
 
 
Mineral
tenement and
land tenure
status
 
>  Type, reference name/number, location and ownership including agreements or material issues with third parties such as joint ventures, partnerships, overriding royalties, native title interests, historical sites, wilderness or national park and environmental settings.

>  The security of the tenure held at the time of reporting along with any known impediments to obtaining a licence to operate in the area.
   
Piedmont, through its 100% owned subsidiary, Piedmont Lithium, Inc., has entered into exclusive option agreements with local landowners, which upon exercise, allows the Company to purchase (or long term lease) approximately 1199 acres of surface property and the associated mineral rights from the local landowners.

There are no known historical sites, wilderness or national parks located within the Project area and there are no known impediments to obtaining a licence to operate in this area.
 
 
Exploration done
by other parties
 
>  Acknowledgment and appraisal of exploration by other parties.
   
The Project is focused over an area that has been explored for lithium dating back to the 1950’s where it was originally explored by Lithium Corporation of America which was subsequently acquired by FMC Corporation. Most recently, North Arrow explored the Project in 2009 and 2010.  North Arrow conducted surface sampling, field mapping, a ground magnetic survey and two diamond drilling programs for a total of 19 holes. Piedmont Lithium, Inc. has obtained North Arrow’s exploration data.
 
 
Geology
 
>  Deposit type, geological setting and style of mineralisation.
   
Spodumene pegmatites, located near the litho tectonic boundary between the inner Piedmont and Kings Mountain belt.  The mineralization is thought to be concurrent and cross-cutting dike swarms extending from the Cherryville granite, as the dikes progressed further from their sources, they became increasingly enriched in incompatible elements such as Li, tin (Sn).  The dikes are considered to be unzoned.
 
 
 
Drill hole
Information
 
>  A summary of all information material to the understanding of the exploration results including a tabulation of the following information for all Material drill holes:

>   easting and northing of the drill hole collar

>  elevation or RL (Reduced Level – elevation above sea level in metres) of the drill hole collar

>  dip and azimuth of the hole

>  down hole length and interception depth

>  hole length.

>  If the exclusion of this information is justified on the basis that the information is not Material and this exclusion does not detract from the understanding of the report, the Competent Person should clearly explain why this is the case.
   
Details of all reported drill holes are provided in Appendix 1 of this report.
 
 

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Criteria
 
JORC Code explanation
   
Commentary
 
 
Data
aggregation
methods
 
>  In reporting Exploration Results, weighting averaging techniques, maximum and/or minimum grade truncations (e.g. cutting of high grades) and cut-off grades are usually Material and should be stated.

>  Where aggregate intercepts incorporate short lengths of high grade results and longer lengths of low grade results, the procedure used for such aggregation should be stated and some typical examples of such aggregations should be shown in detail.

>  The assumptions used for any reporting of metal equivalent values should be clearly stated.
   
All intercepts reported are for down hole thickness not true thickness.

Weighted averaging was used in preparing the intercepts reported.

The drill intercepts were calculated by adding the weighted value (drill length x assay) for each sample across the entire pegmatite divided by the total drill thickness of the pegmatite. For each mineralized pegmatite, all assays were used in the composite calculations with no upper or lower cut-offs. Mineralized pegmatite is defined as spodumene bearing pegmatite.

Intercepts were reported for entire pegmatites, taking into account lithological boundaries (i.e. sample to, and not across, major contacts), with additional high-grade sub intervals reported from the same pegmatite. In the case where thin wall rock intervals were included, a value of 0% Li2O was inserted for the assay value, thus giving that individual sample a weighted value of 0% Li2O.

Cumulative thicknesses are reported for select drill holes. These cumulative thicknesses do not represent continuous mineralized intercepts. The cumulative thickness for a drill hole is calculated by adding the drill widths of two or more mineralized pegmatites encountered in the drill hole, all other intervals are omitted from the calculation.

Li% was converted to Li2O% by multiplying Li% by 2.153.
 
 
Relationship
between mineralisation
widths and
intercept lengths
 
>  These relationships are particularly important in the reporting of Exploration Results.

>  If the geometry of the mineralisation with respect to the drill hole angle is known, its nature should be reported.

>  If it is not known and only the down hole lengths are reported, there should be a clear statement to this effect (e.g. ‘down hole length, true width not known’).
   
Drill intercepts are reported as Li2O% over the drill length, not true thickness.  The pegmatites targeted strike northeast-southwest and dip moderately to the southeast.  All holes were drilled to the northwest and with inclinations ranging between -45 and -80
 
 
Diagrams
 
>  Appropriate maps and sections (with scales) and tabulations of intercepts should be included for any significant discovery being reported These should include, but not be limited to a plan view of drill hole collar locations and appropriate sectional views.
   
Appropriate diagrams, including a drill plan map and cross-section, are included in the main body of this report.
 
 
Balanced
reporting
 
>  Where comprehensive reporting of all Exploration Results is not practicable, representative reporting of both low and high grades and/or widths should be practiced to avoid misleading reporting of Exploration Results.
   
All of the relevant exploration data for the Exploration Results and available at this time has been provided in this report.
 
 
Other
substantive
exploration data
 
>  Other exploration data, if meaningful and material, should be reported including (but not limited to): geological observations; geophysical survey results; geochemical survey results; bulk samples – size and method of treatment; metallurgical test results; bulk density, groundwater, geotechnical and rock characteristics; potential deleterious or contaminating substances.
   
Eleven thin section samples were collected and submitted to Vancouver Petrographic for preparation, mineral identification and description.  The Petrographic report identifies the primary mineralogy as quartz, plagioclase (albite), clinopyroxene (spodumene), K-spar and white mica.  Variable amounts of alteration were identified in the pegmatite samples.  One sample of the host rock was submitted and identified as a metadiorite.

Thirteen samples from the Phase 1 drilling have been analysed by Semi Quantitative XRD (ME-LR-MIN-MET-MN-DO3) by SGS Mineral Services.  Within all thirteen samples, spodumene was identified.  Spodumene ranged between 5 and 38.6 wt%.  The primary mineralogy of the pegmatite was identified as quartz, albite, spodumene, microcline and muscovite.

Bulk Densities are collected from each of the Phase II drill holes (one host rock and one mineralized rock) using analyses code GPHY04V.

Composite samples of ore intercepts from the Phase 1 drilling have been submitted to North Carolina State Minerals Research Lab for bench scale spodumene concentrate testing.   Results pending.
 
 
Further work
 
>  The nature and scale of planned further work (e.g. tests for lateral extensions or depth extensions or large-scale step-out drilling).

>  Diagrams clearly highlighting the areas of possible extensions, including the main geological interpretations and future drilling areas, provided this information is not commercially sensitive.
   
The Phase II drilling program consisted of 93 holes totaling 12,262m has been completed. After evaluation of all of the Phase II data Piedmont decided to conduct additional Phase III drilling to define the Company’s maiden Mineral Resource estimate in 2018.  Currently, a Phase 4 drilling program is being designed to convert inferred resource areas to an indicated classification, as well as, drill areas identified to have exploration potential.
 


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