Quebec Innovative finds third hydrogen zone in N.S.

Executive Summary

• Quebec Innovative Materials Corp. (QIMC) confirmed a third major natural hydrogen discovery in Nova Scotia, specifically in the Southampton and East-Southampton areas within the Cumberland Basin.
• Soil-gas surveys identified 23 samples exceeding 500 ppm hydrogen, with eight samples exceeding 1,000 ppm and a peak concentration of 4,125 ppm (noted as 4,215 ppm in the technical conclusion section).
• The discovery validates QIMC's thesis that the Cumberland Basin is a promising natural hydrogen district, with geological similarities to the Lorraine basin in Europe, and supports the expansion of phase 2 and 3 exploration programs.

Key Details

• Survey Results:
  • Total samples collected: 318.
  • Samples >500 ppm: 23.
  • Samples >1,000 ppm: 8.
  • Peak Hydrogen Concentration: 4,125 ppm (text body) / 4,215 ppm (technical conclusion).
  • Survey Location: Southampton and East-Southampton areas, Nova Scotia.
  • Survey Dates: August 2 to August 11, 2025.
  • Survey Length: 28.6 kilometers across six sections along public roads.
• Geological Context:
  • The anomalies are located on a lower elevation plateau north of the Cobequid highlands.
  • The area is characterized by a regional fault system separating Carboniferous domains (Cumberland Basin) from older granitic and Neoproterozoic terrains.
  • Magnetic and gravimetric surveys indicate thickening of sedimentary sequences in the basin.
  • Seismic reflection data highlights the Athol syncline, reaching a depth of approximately 5 kilometers, with at least four south-dipping faults acting as migration conduits for hydrogen.
• Lithological Associations:
  • Highest hydrogen concentrations were observed over the Carboniferous ragged reef formation (fluvial sandstones, conglomerates, mudstones, lacustrine limestones, and rare coal horizons).
  • No hydrogen anomalies were detected in soils overlying the Malagash formation.
  • Strongest anomalies coincide with zones affected by secondary south-dipping faults intersecting a subvertical strike-slip fault.
• Future Plans:
  • QIMC and INRS teams are expanding phase 2 and phase 3 exploration programs in the confirmed zones.
  • The company is evaluating the integration of ammonia production into its development model, leveraging Nova Scotia's existing infrastructure and port facilities.
• Technical Review:
  • Prof. Marc Richer-Lafleche (INRS) reviewed and approved the technical content, confirming methodologies conform to current industry practices for hydrogen exploration.

Notable Quotes

• "The confirmation of a third hydrogen zone in Nova Scotia, with 23 samples above 500 ppm, including eight over 1,000 ppm and a peak of 4,125 ppm, represents a transformative step for QIMC. Each new anomalous zone further validates our thesis that the Cumberland basin is one of the most promising natural hydrogen districts in North America." — John Karagiannidis, President and CEO
• "The Southampton anomalies highlight a structural and geological setting distinct from Advocate. Here, we are working within a Carboniferous basin environment, which provides a unique context for hydrogen migration and accumulation." — Prof. Marc Richer-Lafleche, INRS
• "The seismic integration is critical. It shows the geometry of the basin, the depth of the Athol syncline and the role of fault systems that facilitate hydrogen migration. This structural picture strengthens our confidence in the Southampton anomalies." — Prof. Marc Richer-Lafleche, INRS
• "Following recent meetings with our partners, we are also evaluating the next phase of development, which includes the integration of ammonia production into our model, leveraging Nova Scotia's existing infrastructure and port facilities." — John Karagiannidis, President and CEO