Interview with Gabriel Marcelo Rubacha, Director & CEO of NOA Lithium Brines Inc.
Recording date: 23rd November 2023
Lithium Veteran Quickly Advancing Argentina Projects
Gabriel Rubacha brings over 30 years of relevant industry experience to his new role as CEO of junior lithium explorer NOA Lithium. After helping develop projects across South America for major mining companies and serving as an independent director at Lithium Americas, Rubacha is now focused on advancing NOA's portfolio of three lithium brine projects in northwest Argentina's lithium triangle.
Thanks to Rubacha's extensive connections and negotiation skills, NOA has swiftly assembled a 100,000-hectare property package spanning Salta and Catamarca provinces. The company moved with urgency after going public in March 2023, quickly initiating drilling at the Rio Grande project. Assay results from the first phase of drilling are expected by year-end, keeping NOA on pace to deliver a maiden resource estimate in Q1 2024.
Rubacha sees particular promise at Rio Grande based on previous exploration by LSC identifying lithium concentrations up to 370 mg/L. He believes these concentrations provide flexibility regarding production methods, with solar evaporation ponds presenting a potentially low-cost extraction route. Rubacha expects an initial Rio Grande resource in the range of 1 to 1.5 million tonnes LCE, targeting shallow brine aquifers before assessing deeper potential.
With lithium demand forecasts predicting sustained tightness in coming years, Rubacha stresses that numerous projects will be needed to satisfy market growth. He notes that development timelines often face delays, providing a favorable window for NOA to advance Rio Grande. Once initial milestones are met, Rubacha envisions introducing a strategic partner to provide engineering expertise and potential funding support.
Rubacha highlights strong support for resource development from provincial authorities governing lithium regulation in Argentina. This localized oversight helps streamline permitting for companies like NOA. With backing from mining-friendly districts and nationally from a new pro-business presidential administration, NOA appears well-positioned to continue on its rapid early trajectory.
—
View NOA Lithium's company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/noa-lithium
Sign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
What is Company Interviews?
An insight into junior mining and opportunities to invest.
Company Interviews, a Crux Investor show, exists to cut through the jargon, bias and bluster.
Matthew Gordon, and guest host Merlin Marr-Johnson hone in on the important factors that indicate a company's strong footing for growth and success.