Helix Exploration PLC (AIM: HEX) has reported highly encouraging noble gas isotope results from its Rudyard Helium Project in Montana, providing further evidence of a deep, ancient and well-preserved reservoir with potential value extending beyond helium production.
Independent laboratory analysis revealed helium-3 to helium-4 ratios approximately 33 times higher than normal crustal values across all three producing wells. The production gas stream contains around 855 parts per billion of helium-3, a rare isotope commonly associated with deep mantle-derived geological processes.
The results support Helix’s interpretation that Rudyard is connected to deep crustal and mantle systems, reinforcing the geological model underpinning the project and providing additional evidence for the potential presence of naturally occurring hydrogen within the broader system.
The study also identified unusually elevated argon isotope signatures. Argon-40 concentrations of approximately 1,500 parts per million were recorded, with isotope ratios between 27 and 33 times greater than atmospheric levels. Such characteristics are highly sought after by the scientific community, particularly for use in dark matter detection experiments and advanced physics research.
Management believes the consistency of the isotope signatures across all producing wells significantly strengthens confidence in the scale and integrity of the reservoir.
Chief executive Bo Sears described the findings as “remarkable”, noting that the presence of mantle-derived helium-3 independently supports the company’s geological thesis for natural hydrogen generation at Rudyard.
He added that while further work is required to fully assess the argon opportunity, the early results suggest the project could potentially host commercially valuable concentrations of both helium and argon alongside its existing resource potential.
The findings further differentiate Rudyard from many conventional helium projects and could enhance the long-term strategic value of the asset as demand for critical industrial gases and scientific-grade noble gases continues to grow.
