Alberta Oilsands Inc. Advances its Clearwater West SLP-SAGD Project Application

 Press Release Alberta Oilsands Inc. Advances its Clearwater West SLP-SAGD Project Application
NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO THE U.S.A. NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION TO THE U.S.A.
Calgary, Alberta CANADA, January 07, 2013 /FSC/ - Alberta Oilsands Inc. (AOS - TSX Venture)("Alberta Oilsands" or the "Company")is pleased to announce that it has submitted to the Energy Resources Conservation Board (ERCB) its response to the remaining question in the third Supplemental Information Request (SIR) and an updated geo-mechanical reservoir model simulation relating to its Clearwater West SLP-SAGD project ("Clearwater").

Binh Vu, interim President of Alberta Oilsands stated, "The submission of the remaining responses and an updated geo-mechanical reservoir model simulation to the ERCB provides strong support for approval of AOS' Clearwater application. This is a significant step on the path to production at the Company's Clearwater project."

The Company initially filed an application to the ERCB for a Solvent Co-Injection Low Pressure Steam Assisted Gravity Drainage (SLP-SAGD) pilot project at Clearwater with a design production capacity of 4,350 bbl/d of bitumen through six horizontal SLP-SAGD well pairs. The Company has now responded to all outstanding SIRs from the ERCB and will continue to work with the ERCB during the coming months to advance the Clearwater application to the approval stage. Subject to the ERCB's approval of the Clearwater application and successful completion of the pilot program, the Company plans to proceed to the commercial production phase and increase the production capacity at Clearwater.

The Clearwater project area is now delineated by a total of 60 core holes over approximately 6 sections. The section that the Clearwater application encompasses has a core density of 14 core holes per section with 3D seismic coverage. The Company engaged GLJ Petroleum Consultants to prepare a NI 51-101 compliant resource report on the entire Clearwater project area based on delineation that included the results of the winter drilling program with an effective date of December 31, 2011. Gross lease contingent resources of 373 million barrels (MMbbl) were assigned on a best estimate basis. The contingencies which currently prevent the classification of the contingent resources as reserves are the pending successful piloting of the SLP-SAGD technology, further delineation drilling, facility design, regulatory approvals and firm development plans.

About AOS
Alberta Oilsands Inc. is engaged in the exploration and development of bitumen in the Athabasca oil sands region of northeast Alberta. Its head office is located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada and Alberta Oilsands' common shares are traded on the TSX Venture Exchange under the trading symbol AOS.
For further information please contact:
Binh Vu
Interim CEO & President
(416) 951-8800
bvu@aboilsands.ca

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
This news release contains forward looking information including expectations for proceeding with the commercial production phase at Clearwater, increasing production capacity at Clearwater and estimates of resources at Clearwater.
Forward looking information is based on management's expectations regarding the successful completion of the pilot program at Clearwater, future growth, results of operations (including production, operating costs, average realized bitumen prices), future capital and other expenditures (including the amount, nature and sources of funding thereof), plans for and results of drilling activity, environmental matters, business prospects and opportunities, future royalty rates, commodity prices and foreign exchange rates and future economic conditions. Forward looking information involves significant known and unknown risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. These risks include, but are not limited to: the risks associated with the oil and gas industry (e.g., operational risks in development, exploration, production and start-up activities; delays or changes in plans with respect to exploration or development projects or capital expenditures; unanticipated operational upsets; the uncertainty of reserve and resource estimates; the uncertainty of estimates and projections relating to production, costs and expenses, and health, safety and environmental risks), the risk of commodity price and foreign exchange rate fluctuations and risks and uncertainties associated with securing and maintaining the necessary regulatory approvals and financing to proceed with the continued expansion at Clearwater. Additional risks and uncertainties relating to AOS and its business and affairs are described in further detail in AOS' Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2011 which is available at www.sedar.com. Although AOS believes that the expectations in such forward looking information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations shall prove to be correct. The forward-looking information included in this news release is expressly qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement. AOS assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information to reflect new events or circumstances, except as required by law.
This news release includes information pertaining to the resources of the Corporation as at December 31, 2011 as evaluated by GLJ Petroleum Consultants Ltd. ("GLJ") in their report for the year ended December 31, 2011. Statements relating to resources are deemed to be forward looking statements, as they involve the implied assessment, based on certain estimates and assumptions, that the resources described exist in the quantities predicted or estimated, and can be profitably produced in the future. Certain information and assumptions relating to the resources reported herein are set forth in AOS' annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2011 which is available at www.sedar.com. The resource estimates of AOS' properties described herein are estimates only. The actual resources on AOS' properties may be greater or less than those calculated. Readers are referred to AOS' annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2011 for additional information relating to the risks and levels of uncertainties associated with the recovery of the contingent resources.
References to "contingent resources" in this news release do not constitute, and should be distinguished from, references to "reserves". Reserves are estimated remaining quantities of crude oil and natural gas and related substances anticipated to be recoverable from known accumulations, as of a given date, based on the analysis of drilling, geological, geophysical, and engineering data; the use of established technology; and specified economic conditions, which are generally accepted as being reasonable. Contingent Resources are those quantities of petroleum estimated, as of a given date, to be potentially recoverable from known accumulations using established technology or technology under development, but which are not currently considered to be commercially recoverable due to one or more contingencies. There is no certainty that it will be commercially viable to produce any portion of the resources. "Best Estimate" is considered to be the best estimate of the quantity that will actually be recovered. It is equally likely that the actual remaining quantities recovered will be greater or less than the best estimate. If probabilistic methods are used, there should be at least a 50 percent probability that the quantity actually recovered will equal or exceed the best estimate.
In addition, design capacity is not necessarily indicative of the stabilized production levels that may ultimately be achieved at Clearwater.
To view this press release as a web page, click onto the link below:
http://www.usetdas.com/pr/albertaoilsands07012013.htm
Source: Alberta Oilsands Inc. (TSX-V AOS) www.aboilsands.ca

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Lithium Americas gets final approval for worlds third largest Lithium deposit

Ed Note:  Lithium Americas (LAC-TSE) was spun off by Latin American Minerals (TSE-LAT) which still owns almost 30% of LAC.

Lithium Americas Receives Final Decree, Approving the Development of its Cauchari-Olaroz Lithium Project

TORONTO, Canada, December 12, 2012 - Lithium Americas Corp. (TSX: LAC) (OTCQX: LHMAF) (“Lithium Americas” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that it has received final project approval for the construction of its Cauchari-Olaroz lithium/potash project.

Upon the recommendation of the Committee of Experts, the Jujuy Government has executed the final decree, through the joint resolution of the Production Minister and Secretary to the Government, which approved the development of Lithium Americas’ Cauchari-Olaroz project.  Such approval includes water use permitting, confirmation of mining licences in good standing, environmental approval for lithium and potash production, and all other permits required to start project construction.

 “Lithium Americas is very proud of advancing the Cauchari-Olaroz project from discovery and exploration, through development, to fully permitted in just short of 4 years,”  stated   Dr. Waldo Perez, President and CEO of Lithium Americas. "We continue to receive an enormous level of support from multiple constituencies in Argentina. We have worked extremely hard to garner this support, which has served to accelerate the permitting and development of Cauchari-Olaroz, as well as further de-risk the project. With the permitting process concluded, our next milestone is securing project financing and off take agreements, which will allow us to initiate project construction in 2013.”

About the Company

Lithium Americas is developing one of the world’s largest and lowest cost lithium operations.   The Company has defined the world’s third largest lithium brine resource, and a completed definitive Feasibility Study identified that Lithium Americas’ operating cost per tonne of lithium carbonate is expected to be one of the lowest in the industry.  Mitsubishi Corporation and Magna International are shareholders in the Company, in addition to both companies having off-take arrangements with Lithium Americas.

For more information please contact:

Mike Cosic, Chief Financial Officer

mcosic@lithiumamericas.com

416-360-1921

or visit www.lithiumamericas.com

Cautionary Note and Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward looking statements, which can be identified by the use of statements that include words such as "plan", “developing”, “estimate”, "could", "potential", "believe", "expect", "anticipate", "intend", "likely", "will" or other similar words or phrases. Forward-looking statements express, as at the date of this press release, the Company's plans, estimates, forecasts, projections, expectations, or beliefs as to future events or results. Forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions, including the key assumptions and parameters on which such estimates are based, involve risks and uncertainties and there can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate. Therefore, actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Factors that could cause results or events to differ materially from current expectations expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, include, but are not limited to, possible variations in mineral resource and reserve estimates, grade/concentration or recovery rates, lithium or potash prices, operating or capital costs; availability of sufficient financing to fund planned or further required work in a timely manner and on acceptable terms; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; failure of equipment or processes to operate as anticipated or other unanticipated difficulties or interruptions; political, community relations, regulatory, environmental and other risks of the mining industry and other risks more fully described in the Company’s Annual Information Form dated May 28, 2012 and its most recent management’s discussion and analysis available on SEDAR. The Cauchari-Olaroz project has no operating history upon which to base estimates of future cash flow. The capital expenditures and time required to develop any new project is considerable and changes in capital and/or operating costs or construction schedules can affect project economics. It is possible that actual capital and/or operating costs may increase significantly and economic returns may differ materially from the Company’s estimates or that prices of lithium and/or potash may decrease significantly or that the Company could fail to obtain or maintain governmental approvals necessary for the operation of its project or obtain project financing on acceptable terms and conditions or at all, in which case, the project may not proceed either on its original timing or at all. It is not unusual in the mining industry for new mining operations to experience unexpected problems during the start-up phase, resulting in delays and requiring more capital than anticipated. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results to be materially different from those planned, estimated, forecasted, projected or expected. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligations, to update forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless otherwise required by applicable securities laws. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward looking statements.

  

Lithium Americas
357 Bay Street, Suite 602
Toronto Ontario M5H2T7
Canada

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International Lithium Corp. Prepares Drilling and Bulk Sampling Program for the Mariana Potash-Lithium Brine Project, Argentina

VANCOUVER B.C., Dec. 6, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- International Lithium Corp. ("ILC" or the "Company") (ILC:TSX-V) is pleased to announce that the Company has initiated permitting and preparations for drilling and bulk sampling brine for metallurgical testing on their wholly owned Mariana Potash-Lithium project in Argentina.

A combination of sonic and reverse circulation drilling is planned to occur in the first half of 2013 to develop an understanding of the resource potential for the entire salar, but focusing on the potash and lithium concentrations and distribution in the central one-third of the salar. GEOS Mining, an Australian geological consultancy with experience in brine resource estimation, has been retained to assist in planning the project and carry out the necessary studies to support a resource estimation if warranted at this stage.

The Company will also collect bulk samples of the brine to be used for more advanced process and recovery testing. The implementation of a program to install test evaporation ponds and a pilot plant is being considered for this stage in addition to hydrogeological, climatic and geophysical studies.
"It is important to our strategic partner that we gain an early understanding of the variations in the unique chemical composition of our source material. We will be working closely with their technical teams to evaluate process methodology and determine final lithium and potassium products that can be produced from the Mariana brines." commented Kirill Klip, President of International Lithium Corp., "By conducting these studies prior to a detailed resource evaluation, we can better direct our efforts to determine the economic viability of the project."

About the Mariana Project
For maps please see http://internationallithium.com/s/marianalithium_argentina.asp
The Mariana potash-lithium brine project at Salar de Llullaillaco in Salta, Argentina, consists of several contiguous mining claims that cover an expansive 160 square kilometres. The claims strategically encompass the entire salar and a significant portion of the surrounding area (to provide site facilities for a processing plant if the project proves to be economically viable). The claims are 100% wholly optioned by the Company.

Salars, or salt lakes, host some of the largest known lithium resources in the world and the Mariana basin is one of the more prominent salars in the renowned lithium belt of South America, currently accounting for more than 70% of global lithium production.

Initial surface brine sampling revealed highly compelling geochemistry reporting average grades of 440 milligrams per litre ("mg/L") lithium and 12,700 mg/L potassium.  The potassium levels were unexpected and represent some of the highest grades comparative to any of the neighbouring salars outside of the world class operation on the Atacama salar in Chile.

International Lithium Corp. previously drilled four widely spaced reverse circulation drill holes (totalling 444 metres and positioned approximately 5 kilometers apart) to characterize the subsurface strata and brine within the 10 x 15 kilometer salar (salt lake).  Results indicate homogeneous geochemical concentrations to the maximum depth of the holes (approximately 100 metres).

The upper stratigraphic interval is primarily halite varying in depth from 18 to 32 metres in the peripheral areas and 66 metres deep proximal to the center of the salar.  Below this predominantly halite layer an extensive mixed evaporite layer approximately 32-52 metres thick, consisting of greater than 60% fine to coarse sand, was encountered in the three peripheral holes.  Below the evaporite sequences in all holes, an extensive medium to coarse grained, dark coloured, basaltic sand interval was encountered.   Brine flow measurements recorded during drilling increased markedly below the halite sequence throughout the sand rich layers.

Unconsolidated stratigraphic units with a significant granular or sand component possess physical characteristics that allow them to maintain a higher degree of permeability and porosity at greater depths than halite (salt) units.  Consequently, they represent a potential aquifer for hosting brine at depth and are an important target in the lithium-potash brine exploration model.  The measured brine densities, ranging from 1,190 to 1,298 grams per litre ("g/L"), reflect a considerable quantity of dissolved salts, approximately 10 times the salinity of seawater.

John Harrop, P.Geo, FGS, is the Company's Qualified Person on the project as defined under NI 43-101 and has reviewed the technical information contained in this press release.

About Jiangxi Ganfeng Lithium Co. Ltd.
Ganfeng Lithium, based in Xinyu, Jiangxi Province, China, is a professional producer of lithium products which has developed a comprehensive product chain, including lithium metal and alloys, inorganic and organic lithium chemicals, supplies a wide range of lithium products for primary and secondary lithium battery market, pharmaceutical and new material industries. Ganfeng Lithium's principal market is in China with international exports to Europe, Japan, the USA and India. Ganfeng Lithium was founded in 2000 and listed on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange in August 2010, notably as the first publicly listed lithium company in China and has experienced rapid continuous growth over the last 11 years.

Ganfeng Lithium is a major shareholder and strategic partner to International Lithium Corp., currently holding approximately 17.5% of the issued and outstanding shares of ILC.

About International Lithium Corp.
International Lithium Corp. is an exploration company with an outstanding portfolio of projects, strong management ownership, robust financial support and a strategic partner and keystone investor Jiangxi Ganfeng Lithium Co. Ltd., a leading China based lithium product manufacturer.

The Company's primary focus is the Mariana lithium-potash brine project in Argentina within the renowned South American 'Lithium Belt' that is host to the vast majority of global lithium resources, reserves and production. The 160 square kilometre Mariana project strategically encompasses an entire mineral rich evaporite basin that ranks as one of the more prospective salars, or 'salt lakes' in the region.
Complementing the Company's lithium brine projects are rare metals pegmatite properties in Canada and Ireland that have revealed through recent highly positive results a clear potential that the Company will advance with the support of its strategic partner, Ganfeng Lithium. These projects can add distinct value as the Company strives to source rare metals to help meet the increasing demand through the growth in global technologies that utilize the rare metals suite of elements.

With the increasing demand of high tech applications in battery and vehicle propulsion technologies, lithium and other rare metals are no doubt the metals of tomorrow's green tech economy. By positioning itself with solid development partners and projects with significant resource potential, ILC aims to be the green tech resource developer of choice for investors and build value for its shareholders.

International Lithium Corp.'s mission is to find, explore and develop projects that have the potential to become world-class lithium, potash and rare metal deposits.

On behalf of the Board of Directors,
Kirill Klip
President, International Lithium Corp.
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Statements in this press release other than purely historical information, historical estimates should not be relied upon, including statements relating to the Company's future plans and objectives or expected results, are forward-looking statements. News release contains certain "Forward-Looking Statements" within the meaning of Section 21E of the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements are based on numerous assumptions and are subject to all of the risks and uncertainties inherent in the Company's business, including risks inherent in resource exploration and development. As a result, actual results may vary materially from those described in the forward-looking statements.
Contact:
Caroline Klukowski
info@internationallithium.com

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More high grade Gold discovered at Grey Fox!

Brigus Gold Reports Additional 147 Zone High-Grade Gold Results

 5 hours ago by Business Wire

 Brigus Gold Corp. ("Brigus" or the "Company") (NYSE MKT: BRD; TSX: BRD) is pleased to announce that exploration drilling on the Company's Grey Fox property continues to return high-grade gold assays from the 147 Zone.
The following table includes highlights from the drill holes reported today from the 147 Zone (all assays are capped at 100 gpt gold, average gold grades over core length widths): 

 Hole Number  From     To     Core Length  Gold Assay   Grams X Width
             ------  ------  -----------  -----------
               (m)     (m)        (m)      grams/tonne
             ------  ------  -----------  -----------
  GF12-489   142.00  143.30      1.30         47.41          62
-----------  ------  ------  -----------  -----------  -------------
             179.00  213.00      34.00        3.54           120
             ------  ------  -----------  -----------  -------------
  including  187.00  193.00      6.00         14.19          85
-----------  ------  ------  -----------  -----------  -------------
  GF12-512   160.00  218.40      58.40        2.70           158
-----------  ------  ------  -----------  -----------  -------------
  including  195.00  206.00      11.00        8.05           89
-----------  ------  ------  -----------  -----------  -------------
  GF12-516    92.40   98.00      5.60         5.53           31
-----------  ------  ------  -----------  -----------  -------------
             183.00  222.00      39.00        6.33           247
             ------  ------  -----------  -----------  -------------
  GF12-518   137.00  159.00      22.00        3.17           70
-----------  ------  ------  -----------  -----------  -------------
             176.00  208.70      32.70        2.13           70
             ------  ------  -----------  -----------  -------------
  GF12-519   149.00  168.00      19.00        5.80           110
-----------  ------  ------  -----------  -----------  -------------
  including  156.00  162.00      6.00         14.68          88
-----------  ------  ------  -----------  -----------  -------------
  GF12-523   133.00  139.00      6.00         3.97           24
-----------  ------  ------  -----------  -----------  -------------
             172.80  176.00      3.20         38.30          123
             ------  ------  -----------  -----------  -------------
             191.00  208.00      17.00        3.90           66
             ------  ------  -----------  -----------  -------------
  GF12-553   203.00  205.60      2.60         42.78          111
-----------  ------  ------  -----------  -----------  -------------
  GF12-561   221.00  224.00      3.00         10.62          32
-----------  ------  ------  -----------  -----------  -------------
             300.50  358.00      57.50        5.17           297
             ------  ------  -----------  -----------  -------------
  including  350.00  357.00      7.00         24.86          174
-----------  ------  ------  -----------  -----------  -------------

 

"Drill results from the 147 Zone continue to return high gold grades over wide intervals," said Howard Bird, Brigus' Senior Vice President of Exploration. "Drilling is ongoing with four drill rigs working to expand the gold resource on the Grey Fox property." 

Brigus' Grey Fox property is located on the southern portion of the Black Fox Complex and is comprised of the 147, Contact and Grey Fox South zones. Planning is underway to develop this property into the Company's next mine. The Grey Fox Mine is expected to be in production by early 2015. 

Over the past two years, exploration at Grey Fox has been very successful with the definition of a new 571,000 ounce resource including 480,850 ounces in the Indicated category from the Contact and 147 zones - adding more than 50 percent to the gold resource on the Black Fox Complex. 

Details of the most recent 147 Zone drill holes and drill-hole location map can be found on the Company's website at www.brigusgold.com. 

Surface drilling was conducted by Norex Drilling and was supervised by the Brigus exploration team. All sample analyses reported herein were performed by Polymet Labs of Cobalt, Ontario, which is ISO 9001:2000 certified in North America using standard fire assay procedures. Intercepts cited do not necessarily represent true widths, unless otherwise noted. Brigus Gold's quality control checks include insertion of blanks, standards and duplicates to ensure laboratory accuracy. Senior Exploration Project Manager John A. Dixon, P. Geo., reviewed the technical exploration information in this release as the Qualified Person for the Company. 

About Brigus Gold 

Brigus is a growing Canadian gold producer committed to maximizing shareholder value through a strategy of efficient production, targeted exploration and select acquisitions. The Company operates the wholly owned Black Fox Mine and Mill in the Timmins Gold District of Ontario, Canada. The Black Fox Complex encompasses the Black Fox Mine, the new Grey Fox property and adjoining properties in the Township of Black River-Matheson, Ontario, Canada. The Black Fox mine is in production and the Grey Fox mine, located four kilometres from Black Fox is in development. Brigus is also advancing the Goldfields Project located near Uranium City, Saskatchewan, Canada, which hosts the Box and Athona gold deposits. In Mexico, Brigus owns the Ixhuatan Project located in the state of Chiapas. In the Dominican Republic, Brigus has signed an agreement to sell its remaining interests in three mineral exploration projects. 

Cautionary and Forward-Looking Statements
Statements in this news release, which are not historical facts, are forward-looking statements that involve risk, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. All statements regarding the Company's ability to successfully expand the Black Fox Complex gold resource, add to Black Fox resources, advance new discoveries to production, convert resource estimates into near-term production, release of an updated mineral resource estimate in 2012 and the Black Fox underground mine exploration drilling program and continue to obtain positive down dip continuity of significant gold mineralization are forward-looking statements and estimates that involve various risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements include environmental risks and other factors disclosed under the heading "Risk Factors" in Brigus Gold's most recent Annual Information Form and Management Discussion and Analysis filed under the company's name at www.sedar.com and annual report on Form 40-F filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission at www.sec.gov and elsewhere in Brigus Gold's documents filed from time to time with the Toronto Stock Exchange, the NYSE Amex, the United States Securities and Exchange Commission and other regulatory authorities. All forward-looking statements included in this news release are based on information available to the Company on the date hereof. The Company assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable securities laws. 

SOURCE: Brigus Gold Corp.

Brigus Gold Corp. 
Jennifer Nicholson, CA 
Executive Vice President 
Phone: (902) 442-7186 
Email: jnicholson@brigusgold.com 
or 
Kate Wood 
Manager, Investor Relations 
Phone: (902) 442-7184 
Email: kwood@brigusgold.com

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Focus Graphite Announces R&D Agreement Between Grafoid Inc. and Hydro-Quebec's IREQ for Next Generation LFP-Graphene Batteries

20 hours ago by Marketwire Focus Graphite Inc (TSX VENTURE: FMS)(OTCQX: FCSMF)(FRANKFURT: FKC) is pleased to announce that Grafoid Inc. - in which Focus Graphite holds a 40% ownership stake - has executed a three-year research and development agreement with Hydro-Quebec's Research Institute for the development of next generation rechargeable batteries using graphene with lithium iron phosphate materials.

Focus Graphite President and CEO Gary Economo, who holds the same position with Grafoid, announced the signing of the joint R&D agreement with Dr. Karim Zaghib, Director Storage and Conversion of Energy at Hydro-Quebec's research and development division, l'Institut de recherche d'Hydro-Quebec (IREQ).
The 50-50 collaborative agreement sets out terms with the objective of creating patentable inventions by combining graphene, supplied by Grafoid, with Hydro-Quebec's patented lithium iron phosphate technologies.

Two key, specific commercial target markets - the rechargeable automobile battery sectors and batteries for mobile electronic devices used in smartphones, computing tablets and laptop computers - were identified in the agreement. 

Hydro-Quebec will study Grafoid's graphene conductivity, electrochemical performance and its effects in electrode formulations, electrolyte and separator optimizations. Detailed characterizations of Grafoid's supplied materials will be undertaken at IREQ's cutting edge facilities using its advanced electron microscopy, spectrographic and other in-house technologies.

Hydro-Quebec will also supply lithium iron phosphate materials and its electrochemistry know how which it acquired under license from famed American inventor Dr. John Goodenough.

Grafoid, in addition to providing graphene materials, brings knowledge acquired during its own development of functionalized graphene and its experience in proving graphene's economic scalability.

"This agreement is noteworthy for numerous reasons," said Mr. Economo.

"This is our first major graphene collaboration with a Quebec and a Canadian global giant in renewable energy research and development. And the source of our graphene is Focus Graphite's Lac Knife, Quebec technology graphite deposit.

"Commercially, and ultimately, our technology development partnership with Hydro-Quebec aims to produce high capacity, LFP-graphene batteries with ultra short charging times and longer recyclable lifetimes," Mr. Economo said. 

He said the parties chose to focus their collaboration on LFP-graphene batteries and materials because of their short-term-to-market potential.

About Focus Graphite
Focus Graphite Inc. is an emerging mid-tier junior mining development company, a technology solutions supplier and a business innovator. Focus is the owner of the Lac Knife graphite deposit located in the Cote-Nord region of northeastern Quebec. The Lac Knife project hosts a NI 43-101 compliant Measured and Indicated mineral resource of 4.972 Mt grading 15.7% carbon as crystalline graphite with an additional Inferred mineral resource of 3.000 Mt grading 15.6% crystalline graphite Focus' goal is to assume an industry leadership position by becoming a low-cost producer of technology-grade graphite. On October 29th, 2012 the Company released the results of a Preliminary Economic Analysis ("PEA") of the Lac Knife project which demonstrates that the project has robust economics and excellent potential to become a profitable producer of graphite. As a technology-oriented enterprise with a view to building long-term, sustainable shareholder value, Focus Graphite is also investing in the development of graphene applications and patents through Grafoid Inc.

About Grafoid Inc.
Grafoid, Inc. is a privately held Canadian corporation investing in graphene applications and economically scalable production processes for graphene and graphene derivatives from raw, unprocessed, graphite ore. Focus Graphite Inc., holds a 40% interest in Grafoid Inc.
 
About IREQ
Hydro-Quebec's research institute, IREQ, is a global leader in the development of advanced materials for battery manufacturing and creates leading edge processes from its state of the art facilities. IREQ holds more than 100 patent rights and has issued over 40 licenses for battery materials to some of the world's most successful battery manufacturers and materials suppliers. Its areas of expertise include energy storage and IREQ is a lead partner with private sector companies in Quebec to build EV and HEV charging stations in support of its technology developments. Its material development contributions are helping to develop safe, high-performance lithium ion batteries that can be charged more quickly and a greater number of times. IREQ promotes open innovation and partners with private firms, universities, government agencies and research centers in Quebec and abroad. Its partnerships allow IREQ to develop, industrialize and market technologies resulting from those innovation projects.
About Hydro-Quebec
Hydro-Quebec is Canada's largest electricity producer among the world's largest hydroelectric power producers and a public utility that generates, transmits and distributes electricity. Its sole shareholder is the Quebec government. It primarily exploits renewable generating options, in particular hydropower, and supports the development of wind energy through purchases from independent power producers. Its research institute, IREQ, conducts R&D in energy efficiency, energy storage and other energy-related fields. Hydro-Quebec invests more than $100 million per year in research.

Contacts:
Focus Graphite Inc.
Mr. Gary Economo
President and CEO
613-691-1091 ext. 101
geconomo@focusgraphite.com

SOURCE: Focus Graphite Inc.

mailto:geconomo@focusgraphite.com

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San Gold Drills 15.5 g/t Over 11.1 m in 710 Lens

San Gold Corporation

TSX : SGR
OTCQX : SGRCF

November 26, 2012 07:00 ET

WINNIPEG, MANITOBA--(Marketwire - Nov. 26, 2012) - George Pirie, President and Chief Executive Officer for San Gold Corporation (TSX:SGR) (OTCQX:SGRCF), is pleased to announce recent results from drill hole 607-12-048 in the 710 lens featuring multiple intercepts including 15.5 g/T over 11.1 metres and 12.0 g/T over 6.0 metres within the Company's 100% owned Rice Lake Project located in Bissett, approximately 235 kilometres northeast of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. The Rice Lake Project has a permitted, modern gold mill currently processing ore at a capacity of 2,500 tons per day, modern surface infrastructure including a licensed tailings management facility, and is connected to the Manitoba power grid system.

The 710 lens is located within the Shoreline Basalt mining unit, adjacent existing infrastructure, and has been delineated between 1,100 and 1,300 metres below surface with a strike of approximately 200 metres. The company is currently developing access to the 710 lens and anticipates mining operations to begin in early 2014.

"These results emphasize the down-dip potential of these deposits, none of which have yet been tested below 1,500 metres. While we continue to aggressively develop the deposits located near surface, these results indicate that we are still only beginning to see the full potential of this property," said Mr. Pirie.

Drilling Results:

Hole	Zone	From (m)	To (m)	Core Length (m)	Grade (g/T)	Below Surface (m)
607-12-048	Shoreline Basalt	290.1	296.1	6.0	12.0	1322.5
	including	292.9	294.0	1.1	62.3
	Shoreline Basalt	359.7	363.5	3.8	8.7	1354.8
	Shoreline Basalt	381.9	392.9	11.1	15.5	1368.2
	including	386.5	392.6	6.1	24.0
	Shoreline Basalt	400.7	401.1	0.4	18.1	1373.4

(1) The intersections presented herein may not necessarily represent the true width of mineralization.
Figure 1 at the end of this release provides a longitudinal section of drill hole 607-12-048 in relation to the delineated portion of the 710 lens.
Figure 2 at the end of this release provides a plan view of drill hole 607-12-048 in relation to the delineated portion of the 710 lens.
Figure 3 at the end of this release provides a plan view of drill hole 607-12-048 in relation to the existing 30 Level infrastructure.
Underground drill core samples are assayed on site in the company's assay lab using the fire assay method with an AA and gravimetric finish. San Gold's quality control and assurance program includes the insertion of standards, the retention of pulps and rejects, and spot checks utilizing independent labs including TSL Laboratories in Saskatoon, SK and Accurassay Laboratories of Thunder Bay, ON. The core lengths are actual lengths as drilled and have not been adjusted for the true width of the mineralized zones.
This drilling program was carried out by San Gold mine geologists under the supervision of D. Ginn, P.Geo., the Qualified Person for San Gold under National Instrument 43-10, who has reviewed and approved the press release.
About San Gold

San Gold is an established Canadian gold producer, explorer, and developer that owns and operates the Hinge, 007, and Rice Lake mines near Bissett, Manitoba. The Company employs more than 400 people and is committed to the highest standards of safety and environmental stewardship. San Gold is on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol "SGR" and on the OTCQX under the symbol "SGRCF".

Cautionary Note
This news release includes certain "forward-looking statements". All statements, other than statements of historical fact included in this release, including, without limitation, statements regarding forecast gold production, gold grades, recoveries, cash operating costs, potential mineralization, mineral resources, mineral reserves, exploration results, and future plans and objectives of the Company, are forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to mining and processing of mined ore, achieving projected recovery rates, anticipated production rates and mine life, operating efficiencies, costs and expenditures, changes in mineral resources and conversion of mineral resources to proven and probable mineral reserves, and other information that is based on forecasts of future operational or financial results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and assumptions of management.
Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "plans", "estimates" or "intends", or stating that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be "forward-looking statements." Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements.
There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's expectations include, among others, the actual results of current exploration activities, conclusions of economic evaluations and changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined as well as future prices of precious metals, as well as those factors discussed in the section entitled "Other MD&A Requirements and Additional Disclosure and Risk Factors" in the Company's most recent quarterly Management's Analysis and Discussion ("MD&A"). Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.
Exploration results that include geophysics, sampling, and drill results on wide spacings may not be indicative of the occurrence of a mineral deposit. Such results do not provide assurance that further work will establish sufficient grade, continuity, metallurgical characteristics, and economic potential to be classed as a category of mineral resource. A mineral resource that is classified as "inferred" or "indicated" has a great amount of uncertainty as to its existence and economic and legal feasibility. It cannot be assumed that any or part of an "indicated mineral resource" or "inferred mineral resource" will ever be upgraded to a higher category of resource. Investors are cautioned not to assume that all or any part of mineral deposits in these categories will ever be converted into proven and probable reserves.
To view the figures associated with this release, please visit the following links:
Figure 1 : http://media3.marketwire.com/docs/SGR4.pdf
Figure 2 : http://media3.marketwire.com/docs/SGR5.pdf
Figure 3 : http://media3.marketwire.com/docs/SGR6.pdf

No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein.

Contact Information

San Gold Corporation
George Pirie
President and CEO
Toll Free: 1 (855) 585-4653
info1@sangold.ca

San Gold Corporation
Manish Grigo
Director Investor Relations
Toll Free: 1 (855) 585-4653
www.sangold.ca

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IBC Advanced Alloys Reports Fiscal 2012 Results

IBC Advanced Alloys Corp.

TSX VENTURE : IB
OTCQX : IAALF
 

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire) - IBC Advanced Alloys Corp. (TSX VENTURE:IB)(OTCQX:IAALF) ("IBC" or the "Company") reports its financial results for the year ended June 30, 2012. Highlights include:

• Record annual revenue of $25.5 million, up 13% from fiscal 2011.
• Record quarterly sales of $8.5 million in the fourth quarter, up over 50% from the third quarter.

Full particulars are provided in the Company's financial statements and related management's discussion and analysis and annual information form which are available at www.sedar.com.

IBC is an integrated manufacturer and distributor of specialty alloys and related products serving a broad range of industries with production facilities in Indiana, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and Missouri. The Company's principal products are copper alloys and a proprietary cast beryllium-aluminum alloy.

While the Company was adversely affected by a sharp decline in copper prices in the first fiscal quarter, the loss before other items ("operating loss") improved in every quarter of fiscal 2012. In the fourth quarter, IBC saw some of the benefit of investments in plant capacity and market development with record revenues representing an increase in sales of 53% over the preceding quarter. For the first time since its formation, the Company generated income, rather than a loss, from operations, even after covering non-manufacturing expenses such as research, exploration and public company costs.

The Company also made significant progress in fiscal 2012 to improve the strength of its balance sheet, reducing interest-bearing debt by $3.3 million over the 12-month period.
To date, IBC has sought to expand plant capacity and develop new business in order to take advantage of opportunities in the specialty alloys market. As a result, results of operations have been characterized by low gross margins and high operating expenses. The gross margins have been low because of staff, rent and depreciation expenses in excess of those necessary for current production levels. IBC's operating expenses have reflected travel and consulting fees to generate interest for our products in new market segments. The Company has also invested in research and exploration activities, such as beryllium oxide enhanced nuclear fuels, not related to core manufacturing operations.

"I am very happy with the results of operations from our manufacturing activities." Simon Anderson, IBC's CFO commented. "Through a systematic program of process improvement and by reaching out to new markets, we have successfully grown our business and demonstrated the ability to reliably produce and deliver high quality products. Our manufacturing operations have matured significantly in response to investments in equipment, technology and personnel over the last four years. We now look forward to reaping the benefits of these investments," he continued.

"The announcement of our results of operations for fiscal 2012 marks a turning point in IBC's development as a business," noted Anthony Dutton, IBC's CEO. "Over the summer and early fall of 2012, our board and management have refined our business strategy to concentrate on those activities that are most likely to lead to the creation of shareholder value. To that end, we have suspended all exploration activities and have focused our business development and administrative activities with the objective of consistently delivering profits from operations."
While the Company's loss was disappointing at $5.7 million, management does not believe this number is indicative of ongoing operating results. For instance:

• As a result of suspending exploration activities, the carrying value of exploration and evaluation assets was fully impaired, incurring a charge of $2.1 million as a consequence. In addition, the segment operating loss relating to exploration was $372,000. From November 2012 onwards, exploration expenditures will be insignificant.
• Fiscal 2012 saw a one-time settlement of $208,000 with a supplier to ensure a constant supply of raw materials. The Company does not expect charges of this type to occur again as this cost resulted from actions of a previous owner of one of our business operations.
• IBC incurred higher than normal professional fees as a result of an undertaking a prospectus financing in late 2011.

About IBC Advanced Alloys Corp.
IBC is an integrated manufacturer and distributor of rare metals (beryllium) based alloys and related products serving a variety of sectors including aerospace, automotive, telecommunications and a range of industrial applications. IBC has 86 employees and production facilities in Indiana, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and Missouri. IBC is creating a dynamic global advanced alloys company. IBC's common shares are traded on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "IB" and the OTCQX under the symbol "IAALF".
This news release was prepared by management of IBC, which takes full responsibility for its contents.
This disclosure contains certain forward-looking statements that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the Company's control including: the impact of general economic conditions in the areas in which the Company operates, industry conditions, changes in laws and regulations including the adoption of new environmental laws and regulations and changes in how they are interpreted and enforced, increased competition, the lack of availability of qualified personnel or management, limited availability of raw materials, fluctuations in commodity prices, foreign exchange or interest rates, stock market volatility and obtaining required approvals of regulatory authorities. In addition there are risks and uncertainties associated with manufacturing activities therefore the Company's future results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those expressed in these forward-looking statements. All statements included in this press release that address activities, events or developments that the Company expects, believes or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. These statements are based on assumptions made by the Company based on its experience, perception of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors it believes are appropriate in the circumstances.

The TSX Venture Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy of this news release. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Contact Information

IBC Advanced Alloys Corp.
Ian Tootill
Director of Corporate Communications
(604) 685-6263 ext 110
itootill@ibcadvancedalloys.com
www.ibcadvancedalloys.com

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