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Gold’s Powerful Rally Brings US$1,800 Into View SPONSOR: Labrador Gold $LAB.ca $RIO.ca $WHM.ca $SIC.ca $NXS.ca

Posted by AGORACOM at 2:17 PM on Thursday, April 16th, 2020

SPONSOR: Labrador Gold – Two successful gold explorers lead the way in the Labrador gold rush targeting the under-explored gold potential of the province. Exploration has already outlined district scale gold on two projects, including a 40km strike length of the Florence Lake greenstone belt, one of two greenstone belts covered by the Hopedale Project. Recently acquired 14km of the potential extension of the new discovery by New Found Gold’s Queensway project to the south. Click Here for More Info

Gold extended its rally to hit the highest in more than seven years on concern that the coronavirus pandemic will have a deep effect on the global economy, hammering corporate earnings while supercharging demand for havens.

Futures in New York moved closer to US$1,800 an ounce, a level last seen in 2011. Spreads between futures and spot prices remain wide, suggesting thinner liquidity, which is further exacerbating price dislocation.

“Liquidity conditions are challenging and market participants are understandably cautious,” Joni Teves, a strategist at UBS Group AG, said Tuesday in a note. “Gold’s journey has been quite bumpy so far, but given the macro backdrop we think the destination remains higher.”

Bullion has soared this year as the global heath crisis tipped economies toward recession and spurred central banks to launch huge stimulus measures. Since last month’s wave of forced selling, as equities sank, gold has staged a recovery.

Comex gold futures for June delivery climbed as much as 1.6 per cent to US$1,788.80 an ounce, the highest for a most-active contract since October 2012. The metal rose 0.4 per cent to settle at US$1768.90 at 1:30 p.m. in New York. Spot gold was more than US$30 cheaper at US$1,737.20, with the spread a feature of trading in recent weeks amid physical market disruptions.

Futures pared earlier gains as “there’s a little bit of a move on volatility, and equities turned around a bit, and what we might be seeing is that people are locking in what they’ve gained on gold here,” Bart Melek, head of commodity strategy at TD Securities, said by phone.

Overall, gold still has room to run, according to Hans Goetti, founder and chief executive officer of HG Research.

“What’s happening here is that the Fed is expanding its balance sheet and every other central bank in the world is doing the same,” he told Bloomberg TV. “What you’re looking at is massive currency debasement in the long term. That’s the major reason why gold is higher, and I would think that over the next few weeks or months, we’re probably going to retest the high that we saw in 2011.”

The Federal Reserve’s massive U.S. monetary program and the fiscal stimulus “could see long-end rates rise during the recovery phase, but not without rising inflation expectations, which should keep real rates suppressed,” TD Securities analysts said in an emailed note. “In this context, we suspect that investment demand for gold will continue to rise as capital seeks shelter from a long-term environment in which real rates are negative.”

Negative real rates boosts the appeal of non-interest-bearing bullion.

Gold’s latest upswing has come even as risk sentiment received a boost after China’s trade data beat estimates, while the pace of coronavirus infections has slowed in some countries, with the focus shifting toward how lockdowns can be eased. President Donald Trump said he has “total” authority to order states to relax social distancing and reopen their economies.

Worldwide holdings in bullion-backed exchange-traded funds have ballooned to a record on rising demand, with investors seeking additional portfolio protection. On Monday, volumes in SPDR Gold Shares, the largest such fund, surged above 1,000 tons to the highest since mid-2013.

In other precious metals, silver futures also advanced on the Comex, while platinum and palladium gained on the New York Mercantile Exchange.

SOURCE: https://www.bnnbloomberg.ca/gold-s-powerful-rally-brings-us-1-800-into-view-1.1421080

Affinity Metals Reports Drill Results for Regal Project with New Silver Discovery of 11.10 m of 143.29 g/t Silver $AAF.ca $SII.ca $TUD.ca $GTT.ca $AMK.ca $OSK.ca $RKR.ca

Posted by AGORACOM at 9:16 AM on Thursday, April 16th, 2020
This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Affinity_Metals_Corp_Logo.png

Affinity Metals Corp. (TSXV: AFF) (“Affinity”) (“the Corporation”) is pleased to release assay results from the late fall drill program conducted on the Regal property encompassing 8,800 hectares of the northern end of the prolific Kootenay Arc approximately 25 km northeast of Revelstoke, British Columbia, Canada.

Along with numerous high grade intercepts in multiple holes, a significant new silver discovery was made in the ALLCO area with drill hole #10 intersecting 11.10 meters of 143.29 g/t silver including 0.55 meters of 2612.0 g/t silver. This intersection also carried high grade zinc and lead with some copper.

A total of 1,846.35 meters of diamond drilling was completed with 21 holes being drilled.

The drilling was divided over two separate target areas with 10 holes from two separate drill pads allocated to testing two areas within a graphitic argillite/limestone contact in the ALLCO area. Mineralized intersections encountered within the ALLCO area drill core consisted mostly of argentiferous galena, sphalerite and tetrahedrite hosted within quartz veins and breccias along a northwest-southeast fault that separates the limestones from the argillites.

A further 11 preliminary confirmation holes were drilled from a single drill pad designed to begin testing the underground structure associated with the historic 1971 resource (pre NI43-101 and therefore not compliant) reported for the past producing Regal/Snowflake mines. The Regal mine is located within moderately to gently, westerly dipping, graphitic phyllites/argillites of the lower Index Formation. Mineralization, hosted in quartz veins concordant with host rocks, consists of pyrite, galena, sphalerite, and locally with scheelite (lower levels), stannite (upper levels), and trace chalcopyrite/tetrahedrite throughout. Sulphides occur either as disseminations in the quartz, or as massive pods or bands parallel with slatey partings.

Robert Edwards, CEO of Affinity stated: “We are extremely encouraged to see such positive assay results from the 2019 drilling, our first drill program on the property. Our expectations were that the assays would show strong mineralization given what we have seen from our prior surface sampling program and the historical production grades, but to find this new 11 meter silver zone is truly exciting! These results set the backdrop for our 2020 exploration program which will target not only this new silver discovery but even more importantly, the two very large anomalies identified by the geophysics that may be the core deposits associated with all this surrounding mineralization. 2020 should be a very exciting year for Affinity.”

Significant intervals from the drill program are presented below:

ALLCO
Hole
No.
From
(m)
To
(m)
Interval
(m)
Ag
g/t
Cu
%
Pb
%
Zn
%
RP-19-0128.6729.090.42106.000.060.330.01
RP-19-01105.00106.001.0028.720.100.050.09
RP-19-0348.7048.770.07171.000.051.240.46
RP-19-0438.6441.002.36214.130.142.602.67
including38.6440.321.6862.550.080.250.16
and40.3241.000.68588.630.308.418.87
RP-19-0540.2543.002.7529.740.020.020.01
RP-19-0544.7545.510.7650.800.020.251.64
RP-19-0556.3356.780.4526.160.000.890.91
RP-19-0639.2643.294.0329.530.080.137.38
including42.0042.620.6217.900.040.024.12
and42.6243.290.67130.000.400.4140.14
RP-19-0649.7250.570.85129.020.030.040.32
RP-19-0738.3739.270.90182.000.130.300.32
RP-19-0743.7046.512.8149.210.020.340.78
including45.1046.251.1591.920.020.711.68
RP-19-0756.6157.420.8198.600.012.422.45
RP-19-0845.4445.940.5020.640.000.460.01
RP-19-0847.8452.274.43111.960.090.230.29
including49.2451.121.88238.200.190.510.50
RP-19-0857.5158.521.0145.700.000.050.03
RP-19-0867.8668.050.1985.240.021.210.11
RP-19-0882.4682.660.2011.390.000.320.01
RP-19-0884.8285.020.20568.000.550.080.18
RP-19-0944.4146.622.2128.700.020.150.13
RP-19-0946.6248.702.0831.700.020.471.12
RP-19-0948.7049.761.066.880.000.140.32
RP-19-1061.0072.1011.10143.290.040.620.50
including61.0067.816.81230.840.070.940.66
including61.0061.310.31122.000.034.185.04
and62.7263.270.552612.000.666.002.89
REGAL
Hole
No.
From
(m)
To
(m)
Interval
(m)
Ag
g/t
Cu
%
Pb
%
Zn
%
RP-19-119.149.380.2413.240.000.730.03
RP-19-1111.1415.794.6512.230.000.320.36
including15.3515.790.4452.470.001.202.89
RP-19-1158.4459.851.4124.850.010.770.25
RP-19-127.327.620.3040.020.000.690.02
RP-19-1211.2011.800.6039.640.000.950.25
RP-19-1211.9313.021.0935.900.010.890.79
RP-19-1213.8017.773.9726.000.000.590.25
including13.816.172.3739.780.000.900.30
RP-19-1260.1860.700.5212.280.000.070.96
RP-19-1313.7617.413.6525.380.000.580.48
including16.9117.410.50102.210.001.870.28
RP-19-1318.5719.050.4815.440.010.710.22
RP-19-1410.8911.180.2960.810.021.241.64
RP-19-1412.2812.840.5619.830.000.250.21
RP-19-1412.9913.340.3513.280.030.540.47
RP-19-1413.4913.820.3320.020.000.350.96
RP-19-1413.9314.220.2933.000.001.320.53
RP-19-1416.0416.310.2743.860.001.651.01
RP-19-1514.8815.380.5012.370.000.380.68
RP-19-1611.3011.880.5831.230.010.910.55
RP-19-1613.0713.800.7341.880.000.920.46
RP-19-1614.4815.320.8423.840.000.620.44
RP-19-1616.8817.800.9232.150.001.400.56
RP-19-1628.1328.290.164.990.020.022.21
RP-19-177.017.160.151360.000.0119.670.21
RP-19-1710.9411.690.7562.320.002.780.19
RP-19-1714.6415.470.8319.820.000.520.36
RP-19-1812.1213.411.2948.310.002.660.53
including12.1212.940.8270.500.004.020.53
RP-19-1815.9718.532.5613.020.000.331.43
including15.9717.411.4412.810.010.372.52
RP-19-1819.9220.520.6027.270.041.150.76
RP-19-196.007.001.0068.420.002.380.22
including6.006.300.30134.000.017.130.13
RP-19-1912.1317.685.5513.350.000.460.39
including15.8217.681.8630.830.001.170.78
RP-19-1929.9130.420.5122.880.021.220.89
RP-19-206.156.650.5046.470.011.750.13
RP-19-207.608.320.7233.370.000.500.19
RP-19-2012.0112.680.6721.510.010.670.49
RP-19-2015.2716.361.0918.630.000.480.43
RP-19-2017.2918.681.3910.520.000.340.62
RP-19-2028.0831.173.0958.780.000.350.33
including29.5230.220.70214.000.000.340.19
RP-19-219.059.560.5137.450.000.580.02
RP-19-2112.9813.820.8417.290.010.470.79
RP-19-2115.8917.271.3839.770.001.550.70
including15.8916.570.6876.500.003.070.31
and17.0017.270.271.840.000.062.27
RP-19-2130.4030.540.1446.830.000.310.16
RP-19-2131.8232.821.0061.100.013.391.49
RP-19-2172.0172.260.2577.110.000.620.02

Note: True widths are presently unknown.

Additional assay work is presently being conducted regarding Tin results in the drill core. Those results will be released once received and interpreted.



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/5458/54511_53b9ae91d42028a8_001full.jpg



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/5458/54511_53b9ae91d42028a8_002full.jpg

Photo description: Photos of 11.10 meter silver discovery intersection in Hole #10. Host rock is a limestone dissolution breccia/dolomitization breccia with weak to moderate silicification overprinting. Flooding this is milky quartz which hosts wispy veinlets of galena and blebby sphalerite at intersections of these or other veinlets.

As previously reported, the Corporation received assay results for 22 rock samples collected from surface outcrops in September 2019 from the Black Jacket and ALLCO areas of the property. Of the 22 grab samples collected, the majority contained bonanza grade silver, zinc, and lead with many samples reaching assay over-limits. The over-limit results for zinc and lead are reported in the table below (italicized) beside the original assay values. Assay values for tin, including high grade samples 11, 14 and 20 which were over-limit in the original assay report, are also presented in the last column of the table.

Sample NumberSample TypeSilver
g/t
Copper
%
Zinc
%
Lead
%
Gold
g/t
Tin
ppm
ALC19CR01grab0.0350000.4
ALC19CR02grab1300.41518.20>20.0 (35.69)0.7046.1
ALC19CR03grab120.232.034.9840.022.4
ALC19CR04grab131.089.026.1022.661.1
ALC10CR05grab16.7.295.060.0130.090.4
ALC19CR06grab74.9.144>30.00 (34.97).0590.282.6
ALC19CR07grab10.05.310.086.0290.040.5
ALC19CR08grab1870.49524.5>20.0 (31.90)1.85189.5
ALC19CR09grab88.1.077>30.00 (39.98)1.880.0832
ALC19CR10grab1545.17826.7>20.0 (28.67)0.68373
ALC19CR11grab2360.36616.80>20.0 (43.67)0.11900
ALC19CR12grab3700.6241.645>20.0 (71.14)3.14273
ALC19CR13grab964.71617.3017.50.11386
ALC19CR14grab3530.3501.945>20.0 (59.54)1.571600
ALC19CR15grab3670.0261.895>20.0 (77.01)0.33205
ALC19CR16grab1790.1075.28>20.0 (52.77)0.37146.5
ALC19CR17grab751.0696.4518.050.45107
ALC19CR18grab1065.718.178.5140.107.6
ALC19CR19grab2510.2995.58>20.0 (70.63)0.06167
ALC19CR20grab44102.2726.40>20.0 (21.56)5.684500
ALC19CR21grab47.5.177.048.0921.788.8
ALC19CR22grab87.7.095.011.0474.792.9

Property History & Background

The Regal Project hosts several past producing small-scale historic mines including the Regal Silver.

The property also hosts numerous promising mineral occurrences. From the historic records it appears that most, and perhaps all, of the known mineralized showings/zones have not been previously drilled using modern diamond drilling methods.

The geology of the Regal property generally consists of the Badshot and Lade Peak limestones, and argillites and phyllites of the Index Formation.

Snowflake and Regal Silver (Stannex/Woolsey) Mines

The Snowflake and Regal Silver mines were two former producing mines that operated intermittently during the period 1936-1953. The last significant work on the property took place from 1967-1970, when Stannex Minerals completed 2,450 meters of underground development work and a feasibility study, but did not restart mining operations. In 1982, reported reserves were 590,703 tonnes grading 71.6 grams per tonne silver, 2.66 per cent lead, 1.26 per cent zinc, 1.1 per cent copper, 0.13 per cent tin and 0.015 per cent tungsten (Minfile No. 082N 004 – Prospectus, Gunsteel Resources Inc., April 29, 1986). It should be noted that the above resource and grades, although believed to be reliable, were prepared prior to the adoption of NI43-101 and are not compliant with current standards set out therein for calculating mineral resources or reserves.

ALLCO Silver Mine

The ALLCO Silver Mine is situated 6.35 Kilometers northwest of the above described Snowflake/Regal Mine(s). The ALLCO Silver Mine operated from 1936-1937 and produced 213 tonnes of concentrates containing 11 troy ounces of gold (1.55 g/t), 11,211 troy ounces of silver (1,637 g/t) and 173,159 lbs of lead (36.9%).

Airborne Geophysics to Guide Future Exploration

An extensive airborne geophysics survey conducted by Geotech Ltd of Aurora, Ontario, for Northaven Resources Corp. in 2011, on the Regal Project identified four well defined high potential linear targets correlating with the same structural orientation as the Allco, Snowflake and Regal Silver mines. Northaven also reported that the mineralogy and structural orientation of the Allco, Snowflake and Regal Silver appeared to be similar to that of Huakan’s J&L gold project located to the north, and on a similar geophysical trend line. The J&L is reportedly now one of western Canada’s largest undeveloped gold deposits. Rokmaster Resources Corp. recently optioned the J&L property in a $44.2M deal and has renamed it the Revel Ridge Project. Rokmaster is presently working on expanding the current resource.

After completing the airborne survey, Northaven failed in financing their company and conducting further follow up exploration on the property and subsequently forfeited the claims without any of the follow up work ever being completed. Affinity Metals is in the fortunate position of benefitting from this significant and promising geophysics data and the associated targets.

The aforementioned Northaven airborne geophysical survey conducted at a cost of $319,458.95 in August of 2011 is described in The BC Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources Assessment Report #33054. The results of the survey are competently explained and illustrated by professionals on You Tube at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GX431eBY_t0

Condor Consulting, Inc. who compiled the survey data and produced the original geophysics report was recently retained by Affinity in order to provide more detailed interpretations and potential drill target locations with the aim of testing two of the four main target areas in the future.

Earth Sciences Services Corp. (ESSCO) has also recently provided acoustical geophysics data for portions of the Regal property. This data is also being interpreted and analyzed with respect to future drill targets.

The Corporation is presently in the process of correlating and interpreting all of the historic and new geophysical and geochemical data as well as the 2019 drill results with the objective of further defining 2020 drill targets.

Affinity Metals has been granted a 5 Year Multi-Year-Area-Based (MYAB) exploration permit which includes approval for 51 drill sites.

Assay Procedure, Quality Assurance and Quality Control Procedures

All drill core samples were sent to MSA Laboratories in Langley, British Columbia for assay. Samples were analyzed by the following methods, as appropriate, to determine grades: ICP-130 35 element two acid digestion with ICP-AES finish, IMS-130 51 element two acid digestion with ICP-AES/MS finish, FAS-418 Ag 30g fire assay with gravimetric finish, determination of Ag, Cd, Pb, W, and Zn with four acid digestion and ICP-AES finish, determination of Pb and Zn by titration, and determination of Sn by Sodium Peroxide fusion with ICP-OES finish.

The Company employed a QA/QC program that was managed by a Qualified Person during the entire drill program. Blanks, duplicates (both pulp splits and 1/4 core), and two certified standard reference materials were used. These QA/QC samples were inserted at a rate of 1 every 10 to 15 samples.

Qualified Person

The Qualified Person for the Regal Project for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101 is Frank O’Grady, P.Eng. He has read and approved the scientific and technical information that forms the basis for the disclosure contained in this news release.

About Affinity Metals

Affinity Metals is focused on the acquisition, exploration and development of strategic metal deposits within North America.

The Corporation’s flagship project and present focus is the Regal.

On behalf of the Board of Directors

Robert Edwards, CEO and Director of Affinity Metals Corp.

The Corporation can be contacted at: [email protected]

Information relating to the Corporation is available at: www.affinity-metals.com

Gold Sparkles as “The Great Lockdown” Hammers the Global Economy SPONSOR: Loncor Resources $LN.ca $ABX.ca $TECK.ca $RSG $NGT.to $GOLD $NEM

Posted by AGORACOM at 8:42 AM on Thursday, April 16th, 2020

Sponsor: Loncor, a Canadian gold explorer controlling over 2,400,000 high grade ounces outside of a Barrick JV. The Ngayu JV property is 200km southwest of the Kibali gold mine, operated by Barrick, which produced 800,000 ounces of gold in 2018. Barrick manages and funds exploration at the Ngayu project until the completion of a pre-feasibility study on any gold discovery meeting their Tier One investment criteria. Newmont $NGT $NEM owns 7.8%, Resolute $RSG owns 27% Click Here for More Info

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Loncor-Small-Square.png
  • Physical gold was up 13.8 percent through April 10
  • Too few investors have adequate exposure to the yellow metal

Gold and gold stocks are among the highest performing assets of 2020 so far as investors seek a haven amid the coronavirus-fueled rout, and as central banks and governments around the world roll out unprecedented monetary and fiscal measures in an effort to mitigate the economic impact of the “Great Lockdown.”

That’s the name the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has given this uncertain period, and I believe it may stick. The IMF added that the “world economy will experience the worst recession since the Great Depression,” with global economic growth this year projected to fall to negative 3 percent.

This highlights the importance of protecting your family’s wealth right now, which savvy investors have historically managed to do with gold and precious metals.

Physical gold was up about 13.8 percent through April 10, while senior gold miners advanced 2.8 percent, making the group the best asset class of the year so far. Longtime readers of Frank Talk know that I frequently recommend a 10 percent weighting in gold and gold stocks, and now you can see why. A 10 percent allocation at the beginning of the year—before any of us had ever heard of the novel coronavirus—could have helped minimize the impact of losses in other positions.

(Click on images to enlarge)

The problem is that too few investors have adequate exposure to the yellow metal. That’s the case even for many who may believe they do. As the World Gold Council (WGC) pointed out last year, most broad-based commodity indices have a very small weighting in gold — the S&P GSCI’s, for instance, is only 3.37 percent. What this means is that investors in funds that track these indices likely do not get the full benefit of having gold in their portfolio.

That’s why I recommend that the 10 percent weighting be split into two halves, with 5 percent in physical gold (bars, coins, 12-karat jewelry ) and the other 5 percent in high-quality gold and precious metal mining stocks, mutual funds and ETFs.

Maybe you’ve missed the rally up to this point, but the good news is that it’s probably still not too late to participate.

Gold Well-Positioned to Revert to Its Mean Relative to the S&P 500

According to analysis by Bloomberg commodity strategist Mike McGlone, the price of gold appears to be seeking to revert to its long-term mean relative to the S&P 500 Index. This would suggest that we could see a new record high, driven largely by excessive money printing.

“Unprecedented global monetary stimulus is a worthy catalyst for the per-ounce price of gold to revert to its long-term mean vs. the S&P 500 Index, in our view,” McGlone explains.

The implication of mean reversion right now is that gold would hit a new all-time high, assuming the S&P continues to trade around 2,800. After all, a one-to-one ratio means that both assets are trading at the same level.

This has happened before, as you can see in the chart above. As recently as March 2013, both spot gold and the S&P 500 were trading in the same 1,500 to 1,600 range. Before that, in May 1990, it was a 330 to 360 range.

A reversion to the mean now—again, assuming the S&P continues to trade at its current level—would put the yellow metal at approximately $2,800 an ounce, a new record high by far.

But remember, that’s just a simple one-to-one ratio. The long-term gold/S&P mean is slightly higher, at 1.12, so the gold price would also be slightly higher, possibly closer to $3,000 an ounce.

Mean reversion is something I write about more in-depth in “Managing Expectations: Anticipate Before You Participate in the Market,” which you can read by clicking here.

Interest in Gold Mining Stocks and Gold Royalty Companies Takes Off

Not enough investors have optimal exposure to gold, according to the WGC, but we’re currently seeing a surge in interest in gold mining stocks and gold royalty companies, if Google search data is any indication.

Search terms using “gold mining stocks” and “gold royalty companies” were higher this month than at any other time in the past 10 years. That includes when the yellow metal hit its record high of $1,900 an ounce in 2011.

Google Trends isn’t a leading indicator recognized by mainstream economists and market analysts, but I believe it shows where investors’ thinking may be at right now. They’re seeking a way to preserve their wealth as we face what could be the worst economic downturn in nearly 100 years, and they’re betting that higher precious metal prices will send shares of gold mining and royalty companies higher as well.

It’s not a bad strategy.

###

Apr 14, 2020
Frank Holmes

website: www.usfunds.com

http://www.321gold.com/editorials/holmes/holmes041620.html

Esports Entertainment Group’s $GMBL CEO Participates in “The Convergence of Gambling and #Esports” Panel $TECHF $ATVI $TTWO $GAME $EPY.ca $FDM.ca $TNA.ca

Posted by AGORACOM-JC at 5:40 PM on Wednesday, April 15th, 2020
  • CEO, Grant Johnson, is participating as an industry panel expert in Eventus International’s “The Convergence of Gambling and eSports” webinar on Thursday, April 16, 2020 at 8:00 a.m. ET (12:00 p.m. GMT).
  • The connection between gambling and eSports has always been a pertinent one, but never has it been more relevant as the present time wherein traditional sports and events have been brought to a standstill in an effort to maintain social distancing

BIRKIRKARA, Malta, April 15, 2020 — Esports Entertainment Group, Inc. (NasdaqCM: GMBL, GMBLW) (or the “Company”), a licensed online gambling company with a focus on esports wagering and 18+ gaming, today announced its CEO, Grant Johnson, is participating as an industry panel expert in Eventus International’s “The Convergence of Gambling and eSports” webinar on Thursday, April 16, 2020 at 8:00 a.m. ET (12:00 p.m. GMT).

The connection between gambling and eSports has always been a pertinent one, but never has it been more relevant as the present time wherein traditional sports and events have been brought to a standstill in an effort to maintain social distancing. With the global sports calendar on pause, eSports have practically become the only game to play in town.

“The Convergence of Gambling and eSports” webinar is expected to be a lively debate exploring the ultimate merger of two powerhouse industries: gambling and eSports.

Johnson will be joined in the insightful discussion by moderator Keith McDonnell, CEO of KMigaming, as well as James Coxon, Business Development Director at SBTech, and Marek Suchar, Head of Partnerships at Oddin.

To register for the “The Convergence of Gambling and eSports” webinar, click here https://www.eventus-international.com/ei-online

ABOUT ESPORTS ENTERTAINMENT GROUP

Esports Entertainment Group, Inc. is a licensed online gambling company with a specific focus on esports wagering and 18+ gaming. Esports Entertainment offers fantasy, pools, fixed odds and exchange style wagering on esports events in a licensed, regulated and secure platform to the global esports audience at vie.gg.  In addition, Esports Entertainment intends to offer users from around the world the ability to participate in multi-player mobile and PC video game tournaments for cash prizes. Esports Entertainment is led by a team of industry professionals and technical experts from the online gambling and the video game industries, and esports. The Company holds a license to conduct online gambling and 18+ gaming on a global basis in Curacao, Kingdom of the Netherlands. The Company maintains offices in Malta. For more information visit www.esportsentertainmentgroup.com

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

The information contained herein includes forward-looking statements. These statements relate to future events or to our future financial performance, and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements to be materially different from any future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements since they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which are, in some cases, beyond our control and which could, and likely will, materially affect actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. Any forward-looking statement reflects our current views with respect to future events and is subject to these and other risks, uncertainties and assumptions relating to our operations, results of operations, growth strategy and liquidity. We assume no obligation to publicly update or revise these forward-looking statements for any reason, or to update the reasons actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements, even if new information becomes available in the future. The safe harbor for forward-looking statements contained in the Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 protects companies from liability for their forward-looking statements if they comply with the requirements of the Act.

Contact:

U.S. Investor Relations 
RedChip Companies, Inc.
Dave Gentry
407-491-4498
[email protected]

Media & Investor Relations Inquiries
AGORACOM
[email protected]
http://agoracom.com/ir/eSportsEntertainmentGroup

VIDEO: $HPQ.ca Silicon Launches Missile At Graphite, With Potential To Replace Graphite In Lithium-Ion Batteries $FSLR $SPWR $CSIQ $PYR.ca $XMG.ca

Posted by AGORACOM-JC at 5:36 PM on Wednesday, April 15th, 2020

There is no other way to say it.  HPQ Silicon (HPQ:TSXV) just took a direct shot at graphite by stating Silicon Material Produced With It’s Process Offers Promising Potential to Replace Graphite in Lithium-ion Batteries.

The statement is sure to draw significant fire from the multitude of graphite juniors and proponents of graphite as the primary material in the lithium-ion anode, who vastly outnumber the number of silicon proponents in the junior market.  

According to HPQ CEO, Bernard Tourillon, graphite anodes are consistent performers, however, their limited energy capacity makes them ill-suited as the long term global answer to skyrocketing demand for electric vehicles. Silicon anodes, on the other hand, absorb far more lithium than their graphite counterparts, offering a substantial improvement in battery efficiency.

Tourillon isn’t just spinning a story.  His claims are backed by hard facts and science.  He does agree, however, that Silicon has not been able to go mainstream due to swelling and cracking issues – but according to HPQ – these latest promising results represent a step forward in that solving that problem.  

With HPQ already under NDA with a battery manufacturer, Tourillon’s claims carry even greater weight.  If HPQ can deliver, he may very well knock graphite off its perch single-handedly.  

Watch this interview to hear what Tourillon has to further say on the subject, which will also undoubtedly serve as the basis for heated debate between HPQ and the graphite world for months to come.  To the winner the spoils …. and Tourillon believes strongly that HPQ will prevail.  

Ding Ding.  Let the battle begin.

Gold, Silver Bulls Bask Amid Bullish Charts, Safe-Haven Buying SPONSOR: Labrador Gold $LAB.ca $RIO.ca $WHM.ca $SIC.ca $NXS.ca

Posted by AGORACOM at 11:16 AM on Wednesday, April 15th, 2020

SPONSOR: Labrador Gold – Two successful gold explorers lead the way in the Labrador gold rush targeting the under-explored gold potential of the province. Exploration has already outlined district scale gold on two projects, including a 40km strike length of the Florence Lake greenstone belt, one of two greenstone belts covered by the Hopedale Project. Recently acquired 14km of the potential extension of the new discovery by New Found Gold’s Queensway project to the south. Click Here for More Info

Gold futures prices are trading not far from unchanged on the day Tuesday at midday, after scoring a 7.5-year high early on, at $1,788.80, basis June Comex futures. Silver prices are sharply up and at a four-week high today. Gold bulls are enjoying the strong near-term technical advantage to continue to suggest more upside for the yellow metal in the near term. Safe-haven demand continues to boost gold, and to a lesser degree silver, as the global economy is still on very shaky ground. June gold futures were last up $0.10 an ounce at $1,761.30. May Comex silver prices were last up $0.503 at $16.04 an ounce.

Global stock markets were mostly higher in overnight trading. U.S. stock indexes are solidly higher at midday. More and more it appears North America and Europe have “turned the corner” on the Covid-19 pandemic. New York Governor Cuomo said Monday his state has seen the worst of the pandemic. Other hotspots in the U.S. have also showed signs of simmering down. Leading U.S. health officials are now saying the world’s largest economy can very likely begin to reopen in stages beginning in May.

The present Covid-19 situation appears to be a sweet spot for the precious metals. There is enough confidence in the marketplace for traders to want to trade markets, but the global economies are still in very bad shape and it’s uncertain when they will be fully operational or healed.

Major corporate earnings reports are now starting to be released, which will show the early impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, and be a sobering reminder of the tough economic times at present. JP Morgan’s results today were a testament of a crippled U.S. economy.

In overnight news, China, the world’s second-largest economy, saw its March exports down 6.6%, year-on-year, which was less than expected. Imports were down 0.9% in the period, also way less than expected. China watchers deemed this data as upbeat, showing the Chinese economy is recovering from the pandemic.

The important markets today see Nymex crude oil prices trading solidly lower, around $21.00 a barrel. Oil market bulls are sorely disappointed the weekend OPEC and other major oil producers agreement to restrict oil output did not boost crude oil futures prices. However, there is no consensus on how much oil production will be reduced. Some market watchers think 10 million barrels a day and the more optimistic bulls think 20 million. There is more agreement among analysts that worldwide oil demand has dropped by at least 20 million barrels a day.

Meantime, the U.S. dollar index is lower at midday. The 10-year U.S. Treasury note yield is trading around 0.735% today.

Technically, June gold futures bulls have the strong overall near-term technical advantage. More upside is likely in the near term. Gold bulls’ next upside near-term price breakout objective is to produce a close above solid technical resistance at $1,800.00. Bears’ next near-term downside price breakout objective is pushing prices below solid technical support at $1,700.00. First resistance is seen at today’s high of $1,788.80 and then at $1,800.00. First support is seen at today’s low of $1,755.30 and then at $1,750.00. Wyckoff’s Market Rating: 9.0

May silver futures prices were nearer the session high and hit a four-week high at midday. The silver bulls have the overall near-term technical advantage. Prices are in a four three-week-old uptrend on the daily bar chart. Silver bulls’ next upside price objective is closing prices above solid technical resistance at $17.00 an ounce. The next downside price breakout objective for the bears is closing prices below solid support at $14.50. First resistance is seen at today’s high of $16.30 and then at $16.50. Next support is seen at today’s low of $15.655 and then at this week’s low of $15.385. Wyckoff’s Market Rating: 6.5.

May N.Y. copper closed up 285 points at 233.10 cents today. Prices closed near the session high and closed at a four-week high close today. The copper bulls have the slight overall near-term technical advantage. A price uptrend is in place on the daily bar chart. Copper bulls’ next upside price objective is pushing and closing prices above solid technical resistance at 250.00 cents. The next downside price objective for the bears is closing prices below solid technical support at 220.00 cents. First resistance is seen at this week’s high of 235.25 cents and then at 238.00 cents. First support is seen at 230.00 cents and then at this week’s low of 226.35 cents. Wyckoff’s Market Rating: 5.5

Source: https://www.kitco.com/news/2020-04-14/Gold-silver-bulls-bask-amid-bullish-charts-safe-haven-buying.html

Silicon Material Produced With GEN2 PUREVAP™ Offers Promising Potential to Replace Graphite in Lithium-ion Batteries $FSLR $SPWR $CSIQ $PYR.ca $XMG.ca

Posted by AGORACOM-JC at 10:18 AM on Wednesday, April 15th, 2020
  • Provided update on promising results emanating from electrochemical performance tests performed on materials produced with our GEN2 PUREVAPTM Quartz Reduction Reactor
  • Material produced with the GEN2 PUREVAPTM QRR, demonstrated its potential to advantageously replace graphite in Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries while limiting the disadvantages inherent to silicon anodes

MONTREAL, April 15, 2020  — HPQ Silicon Resources Inc.  (“HPQ” or the “Company”) TSX-V: HPQ; FWB: UGE; Other OTC : URAGF; would like to update its shareholders on promising results emanating from electrochemical performance tests performed on materials produced with our GEN2 PUREVAPTM Quartz Reduction Reactor (“QRR”).

Recently, tests conducted at the Institut National de Recherche Scientifique (INRS), on material produced with the GEN2 PUREVAPTM QRR (“GEN2”), demonstrated its potential to advantageously replace graphite in Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries while limiting the disadvantages inherent to silicon anodes.

“While preliminary, the results obtained are very promising and validate our decision to focus our efforts on upstream production of materials needed to make the silicon-based anodes for high-density lithium-ion battery using material produced by our PUREVAPTM RRQ process as feed stock,” said Bernard Tourillon, President and CEO HPQ Silicon. “Interest in Silicon Metal’s potential to contribute to energy storage demand is undeniable and generating massive investments, as well as serious industry interest.”

SILICON (Si), A SUPERIOR ANODE MATERIAL FOR LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES VERSUS GRAPHITE

Silicon (Si) is a very promising anode material for Li-ion batteries because it’s theoretical gravimetric capacity (storage capacity in (mAh) per g of material) and volumetric capacity (storage capacity in (mAh) per cm3 of material) are significantly higher than graphite, the material currently used in commercial Li-ion batteries.  While resolving silicon swelling and cracking during the lithiation phase1 represents a significant challenge in order to achieve a comparable cyclage stability to graphite, the reference anode material of Li-ion batteries, the promising results obtained represent a step forward in that direction.

The tests on material produced with the GEN2 are part of a series of initiatives being undertaken by HPQ in order to become a producer of silicon (Si) materials suitable for the next generation Li-Ion batteries.  The tests were completed at the Centre Énergie Matériaux Télécommunications (EMT) of the INRS by Professor Lionel ROUÉ under an NSERC Engage Grant and a NSERC Engage plus Grant.

The exact composition of the material produced with the GEN2 as well as how the electrodes used in the tests were prepared are trade secrets of HPQ.  HPQ will take the necessary steps to protect this invention.  As part of this research project, HPQ retains all intellectual property rights in relation to this invention.

SILICON (Si) FOR LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES: A GROWING MARKET

A recent report by Wood Mackenzie Power projects that energy storage deployments are estimated to grow +1,300% from a 12 Gigawatt-hour market in 2018 to a 158 Gigawatt-hour market in 2024.  This is why, despite the low utilization rate of silicon-based powders in current Li-ion batteries, demand for silicon (Si) based powders is estimated to represent an addressable market of US $ 1B by 20222 expanding at a CAGR of 38.9% between 2019 – 2024.

About Silicon

Silicon (Si), also known as silicon metal, is one of today’s strategic materials needed to fulfil the Renewable Energy Revolution (“RER”) presently under way. Silicon does not exist in its pure state; it must be extracted from quartz (SiO2), in what has historically been a capital and energy intensive process.

About HPQ Silicon

HPQ Silicon Resources Inc. (TSX-V: HPQ) is building a portfolio of unique high value silicon products needed for the RER.

Working with PyroGenesis Canada Inc. (TSX-V: PYR), a high-tech company that designs, develops, manufactures and commercializes plasma – based processes, HPQ is developing:

  • The PUREVAPTM “Quartz Reduction Reactors” (QRR), an innovative process (patent pending), which will permit the one step transformation of quartz (SiO2) into high purity silicon (Si) at reduced costs, energy input, and carbon footprint that will propagate its considerable renewable energy potential;
    • HPQ is in the process of becoming the lowest cost (Capex and Opex) producer of silicon (Si) and high purity silicon (3N – 4N Si);
  • The PUREVAPTM Silicon Nano Reactor (SiNR), a new proprietary process that can uses different purities of silicon (Si) as feedstock, to make spherical silicon nanopowders and nanowires;
    • HPQ objective is to become the lowest cost manufacturer of spherical Si nanopowders and silicon-based composites needed by all the manufacturers of next-generation lithium-ion batteries;
    • During the coming months, spherical Si nanopowders and nanowires silicon-based composites samples requested by industry participants and research institutions’ will be produced using the newly upgraded Gen2 PUREVAPTM SiNR.

HPQ is also working with industry leader Apollon Solar of France to:

  • Use their patented process and develop a capability to produce commercially porous silicon (Si) wafers and porous silicon (Si) powders;
    • The collaboration will allow HPQ to become the lowest cost producer of porous silicon wafers for all-solid -state batteries and porous silicon powders for Li-ion batteries.
    • The plan is to deliver porous Si wafer to a battery manufacturer (under NDA) for testing in 2020.

This News Release is available on the company’s CEO Verified Discussion Forum, a moderated social media platform that enables civilized discussion and Q&A between Management and Shareholders. 

Disclaimers:

The Corporation’s interest in developing the PUREVAP™ QRR and any projected capital or operating cost savings associated with its development should not be construed as being related to the establishing the economic viability or technical feasibility of any of the Company’s Quartz Projects.

This press release contains certain forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements containing the words “may”, “plan”, “will”, “estimate”, “continue”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “expect”, “in the process” and other similar expressions which constitute “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements reflect the Company’s current expectation and assumptions and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, our expectations regarding the acceptance of our products by the market, our strategy to develop new products and enhance the capabilities of existing products, our strategy with respect to research and development, the impact of competitive products and pricing, new product development, and uncertainties related to the regulatory approval process. Such statements reflect the current views of the Company with respect to future events and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties and other risks detailed from time-to-time in the Company’s on-going filings with the security’s regulatory authorities, which filings can be found at www.sedar.com. Actual results, events, and performance may differ materially. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements either as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws.

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.

For further information contact

Bernard J. Tourillon, Chairman, President and CEO Tel (514) 907-1011
Patrick Levasseur, Vice-President and COO Tel: (514) 262-9239
http://www.hpqsilicon.com Email: [email protected]

____________________
1 The incorporation of lithium into an electrode in a lithium-ion battery
2 Source Marketandmakerts.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9f7a4003-c0f6-4b77-b885-6e2b6138f49c

Silicon Vs Graphite
Gravimetric and Volumetric Capacity Silicon Versus Graphite

Gold Futures Prices at 7.5-Yr. High On Safe-Haven Demand, Bullish Charts SPONSOR: Labrador Gold $LAB.ca $RIO.ca $WHM.ca $SIC.ca $NXS.ca

Posted by AGORACOM at 10:46 AM on Tuesday, April 14th, 2020

SPONSOR: Labrador Gold – Two successful gold explorers lead the way in the Labrador gold rush targeting the under-explored gold potential of the province. Exploration has already outlined district scale gold on two projects, including a 40km strike length of the Florence Lake greenstone belt, one of two greenstone belts covered by the Hopedale Project. Recently acquired 14km of the potential extension of the new discovery by New Found Gold’s Queensway project to the south. Click Here for More Info

Gold futures prices are trading narrowly on both sides of unchanged in early U.S. trading Tuesday after scoring another 7.5-year high, at $1,785.00 overnight, basis June Comex futures. Gold bulls are enjoying the strong near-term technical advantage to continue to suggest more upside for the yellow metal in the near term. Safe-haven demand continues to boost gold, and to a lesser degree silver, as the global economy is still on very shaky ground. June gold futures were last down $0.90 an ounce at $1,760.20. May Comex silver prices were last up $0.388 at $15.925 an ounce.

Global stock markets were mostly higher in overnight trading. U.S. stock indexes are pointed toward higher openings when the New York day session begins. More and more it appears North America and Europe have “turned the corner” on the Covid-19 pandemic. New York Governor Cuomo said Monday his state has seen the worst of the pandemic. Other hotspots in the U.S. have also showed signs of simmering down. Leading U.S. health officials are now saying the world’s largest economy can very likely begin to reopen in stages beginning in May.

Major corporate earnings reports are now starting to be released, which will show the early impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, and be a sobering reminder of the tough economic times at present.

Technically, the gold bulls have the strong overall near-term technical advantage amid a price uptrend in place on the daily, weekly and monthly charts. That strongly suggests the path of least resistance for prices will remain sideways to higher for at least the near term and probably longer. Bulls’ next upside price objective is to produce a close in June futures above solid resistance at $1,800.00. Bears’ next near-term downside price objective is pushing futures prices below solid technical support at $1,700.00. First resistance is seen at the overnight high of $1,785.00 and then at $1,800.00. First support is seen at $1,750.00 and then at Monday’s low of $1,724.20. Wyckoff’s Market Rating: 8.5

May silver futures bulls have the overall near-term technical advantage and prices are  trending higher on the daily bar chart. Silver bulls’ next upside price objective is closing prices above solid technical resistance at $17.00 an ounce. The next downside price breakout objective for the bears is closing prices below solid support at $14.50. First resistance is seen at last week’s high of $16.09 and then at $16.25. Next support is seen at Monday’s low of $15.385 and then at $15.25. Wyckoff’s Market Rating: 6.0.

SOURCE: By Jim Wyckoff

https://www.kitco.com/news/2020-04-14/Gold-futures-prices-at-7-5-yr-high-on-safe-haven-demand-bullish-charts.html

How Audi Plans To Bring 20 All-Electric Models To Market In The Next Five Years SPONSOR: Lomiko Metals $LMR.ca $CJC.ca $SRG.ca $NGC.ca $LLG.ca $GPH.ca $NOU.ca

Posted by AGORACOM at 10:32 AM on Tuesday, April 14th, 2020

SPONSOR: Lomiko Metals is focused on the exploration and development of minerals for the new green economy such as lithium and graphite. Lomiko owns 80% of the high-grade La Loutre graphite Property, Lac Des Iles Graphite Property and the 100% owned Quatre Milles Graphite Property. Lomiko is uniquely poised to supply the growing EV battery market. Click Here For More Information

  • Globally, by 2025, Audi is aiming to have 30 electrified models on sale, with 20 of those vehicles fully electric.
  • It is an ambitious plan showing the brand’s global commitment for a more electrified and sustainable future.

Already in the U.S., Audi has introduced five production models—the Audi Q5 TFSI e, A7 TFSI e and A8 TFSI e plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) as well as the e-tron all-electric SUV and upcoming e-tron Sportback. Next, we’ll introduce the Audi Q4 e-tron SUV and e-tron GT performance sedan, which have already been shown as concept vehicles.

Audi’s upcoming all-electric vehicles will be built on four distinct platforms that balance performance, efficiency, practicality and the engineering and craftsmanship synonymous with the Audi brand. Here are details of the four architectures that will underpin cars and SUVs in a multitude of sizes to bring Audi’s electrified plans to reality.

MLB evo: The first Audi electric vehicles

The first Audi quattro model of the 1980s was simply named “quattro” for its innovative all-wheel-drive technology. Much the same, the “e-tron” name foreshadows a range of electric vehicle (EV) drivetrain technology for the Audi brand. The Audi e-tron SUV is the first all-electric SUV, having gone on sale in the U.S. starting in May 2019. It combines electric mobility with Audi quality: A sophisticated drive and recuperation system, all-wheel drive and maximum comfort. It is an Audi, through and through, in quality, performance and execution.

Manufactured in a certified CO2-neutral plant in Brussels, Belgium, whose 398,264 sq ft rooftop solar array is large enough to produce approximately 3,000 MWh annually—or enough to charge approximately 30,000 e-tron SUVs—the e-tron is based on a heavily modified version of the modular longitudinal platform (MLB evo) that underpins an array of Audi vehicles. With a wheelbase that stretches 115.3 inches, the e-tron is between the Audi Q5 and Audi Q7 SUVs in terms of size, or about the same size as an Audi Q8. The high-voltage battery stores up to 95 kWh of energy and can recover up to 30% of energy used to drive the vehicle during regenerative braking applications. In most applications, the e-tron uses brake-energy regeneration relying on its hydraulic brake booster. A brake pedal simulator makes the switch from regen to hydraulic braking nearly unnoticeable.

The e-tron houses two asynchronous electric motors (ASM) that produce up to 402 horsepower in boost mode. A more powerful, three-motor variant with fully independent rear torque vectoring is also under development.

Using an Audi-designed power electronics module, the e-tron is able to read sensor data 10,000 times per second and output current values for the electric motors to help with traction in various conditions. With its rear-biased quattro all-wheel-drive system, if the e-tron senses a loss of traction, it is able to redistribute torque to wheels with traction in just 30 milliseconds.

The Audi e-tron can charge using both alternating (Level 1 and 2) and direct (Level 3) current and can achieve approximately 80% charge in 30 minutes at a 150 kW high-speed public charger. Later in 2020, the e-tron will be joined by the e-tron Sportback, a new variant with a coupe-like profile.

J1: The performance electric platform

Shown as a concept vehicle thus far, the Audi e-tron GT performance sedan shows how sports cars will evolve in the electric era. For the e-tron GT, Audi is sharing synergies with the Porsche brand, which developed the J1 architecture.

The Audi e-tron GT concept car is equipped with two permanently excited synchronous motors (PSM) that produce a combined 582 horsepower and 612 lb-ft of torque. A PSM has a rotor with permanent magnets in it and a natural internal magnetic field. In a PSM, the rotor moves in coordination with the magnetic field of the stator (the stationary part of the motor in which the rotor rotates), which is why it is known as a permanently excited synchronous motor. By comparison, an asynchronous motor’s rotor rotates slower than a synchronous speed.

While specifications for the e-tron GT are subject to change, the e-tron GT concept is estimated to reach 62 mph from standstill in 3.5 seconds and 124 mph in just over 12 seconds in production form.

The electrical system in the e-tron GT concept car runs at 800 volts, whereas most modern EVs currently operate at a capacity of 400 volts or less. Volts are a measurement of pressure in an electric circuit, and the J1 platform can accept this level of force thanks to its energy management and cooling systems. Because of this, the e-tron GT is able to charge the battery to 80% in about 20 minutes at a Level 3 DC fast charger with a maximum output of 350 kW.

In the e-tron GT, the battery is located in the underbody, between the axles and is designed with recesses in the rear footwell, ensuring comfort for front- and rear-seat passengers. The body and roof of the e-tron GT are made of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP), and the car uses the same multi-material construction philosophy as other Audi vehicles like the A8.

In combination with the low center of gravity, the e-tron GT has quattro all-wheel drive, with an electric motor at the front and rear axles, offering ideal traction for a sports car. The drive management distributes the torque of the electric motors between the axles as needed and also regulates the wheels separately.

The layout allows for numerous suspension and performance features, for example all-wheel steering or a sport differential, providing excellent traction and vehicle dynamics. Electric motors with different outputs can be used in production versions.

MEB: Small Audi platform, large aspirations

A good way to think about Audi’s use of the modular electric toolkit (MEB) architecture is to think of the current internal-combustion vehicles in the Audi lineup.

Small, gas-powered Audi vehicles like the A3 and Q3 serve as entry points into the Audi brand and share components with one another on a platform called MQB. Larger Audi vehicles from the A4 up to the A8 and SUVs use shared componentry on the MLB platform. This helps engineers develop shared parts across many vehicles that are philosophically similar. That’s what the MEB platform will be to Audi for small and medium electric vehicles, with the PPE platform focused toward medium and large EVs.

With the MEB platform, Audi will draw from the strength of the Volkswagen Group to offer customers affordable yet technically sophisticated electric models with unmistakable Audi DNA. The MEB platform will be used for vehicles like the Q4 e-tron. Designed exclusively for EVs, MEB will provide customers all the advantages that compact electric motors and lithium-ion batteries in different sizes and capacities offer. The battery systems, electric motors and axle designs form a technology toolkit. In contrast to the current models with combustion engines, the front section is considerably shorter—the front axle and firewall move forward, making the wheelbase and usable interior space considerably larger.

The Q4 e-tron is expected to be the first Audi model based on the MEB platform, with exterior dimensions comparable to those of the Q3 but with the interior dimensions of a significantly larger vehicle. The architecture also offers new design opportunities and offers different performance levels and powertrain configurations.

PPE: Medium and large premium vehicles

Finally, what the MLB platform is to vehicles like the Audi A4 through A8 and Q5 through Q8, the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture is to Audi’s electric portfolio.

PPE has been designed and developed in cooperation with Porsche from the start with the project team sharing space in Ingolstadt. PPE is characterized by a high-tech and highly scalable architecture that allows for both low- and high-floor, from the medium-size class and up—SUVs, Sportbacks, Avants and crossovers. The portfolio and flexibility will allow Audi to develop and sell one of the best combinations of electric, plug-in and internal combustion vehicles in the global markets.

The technology offered in PPE is similar to that of MEB and with a number of powertrain and battery options that will be available. Standard packaging will allow for one electric motor in the rear; the higher-range models will be equipped with a second electric motor at the front axle (PSM or ASM) that can activate quattro all-wheel drive automatically when needed.

Like in the Audi e-tron GT concept, the electrical architecture is 800 volts; in combination with high-efficiency thermal management, it enables an ultra-high-speed charging capacity of 350 kW. The dimensions and overhangs of the low-floor Audi models on the PPE platform will be slightly shorter than those of the current combustion engine models on the MLB platform but will offer greater interior dimensions. Torque vectoring, air suspension and all-wheel steering will all be available.

The Audi brand has dedicated approximately €12 billion global investment through 2024 to help ensure development of a number of EVs, in an effort to meet demand as infrastructure around the world rapidly develops. Globally, Audi anticipates it will reach production of approximately 800,000 electrified vehicles per year by 2025.

As the Volkswagen Group has committed to the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement and plans to be a CO2-neutral automaker globally by 2050, Audi and the entire Group are putting a full focus into electrification and more sustainable transportation. The above platforms can help ensure the Group does all it can to reach its ambitious goals.

SOURCE: https://us.motorsactu.com/tech-talk-how-audi-plans-to-bring-20-all-electric-models-to-market-in-the-next-five-years/

Detailed Insight into the Properties and Applications of Graphene SPONSOR: Gratomic $GRAT.ca $SRG.ca $NGC.ca $LLG.ca $GPH.ca $NOU.ca #TODAQ

Posted by AGORACOM at 9:40 AM on Tuesday, April 14th, 2020
http://blog.agoracom.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/GRAT-square2.png

SPONSOR: Gratomic Inc. (TSX-V: GRAT) Advanced materials company focused on mine to market commercialization of graphite products, most notably high value graphene based components for a range of mass market products. Collaborating with Perpetuus, Gratomic will use Aukam graphite to manufacture graphene products for commercialization on an industrial scale. For More Info Click Here

Graphene is only one-atom thick in its monolayer form and approximately 0.32 nanometers in the Z-axis. This means that the third dimension is eliminated, and it is classed as a 2D, all-surface material. Put into perspective, a stack of three million graphene sheets would only be 1 mm thick

Graphene in its monolayer form is the strongest material ever tested despite being extremely thin, a strength that comes in part from its flexibility which means it is also the most stretchable crystal material measured to date. It is also 97.7 percent transparent and has an extremely low permeability rate, with even helium atoms being unable to penetrate it.

Graphene also boasts the highest thermal conductivity ever recorded, standing at 10 times higher than copper. Further adding to its advantages as a material is the fact that it has the highest intrinsic electron mobility that is approximately 100 times greater than silicon. This property, in particular, has intrigued electronics applications for the last 15 years.

Engineered Properties Applications

Table 1. Graphene’s Properties and Associated Applications. 

Source: Graphene Frontiers, Ruoff.

Altogether, these properties make graphene the latest “wonder material” in advanced materials science and technology. This has resulted in research on other 2D materials that are analogous to graphene, from hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN), Molybdenum Disulfide (MoS2), transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) and black phosphorus, to silicene, germanene, and others.

The wider group of 2D materials is significant in relation to graphene as it exhibits a wider spectrum of electronic properties when compared to metals, semimetals, and semiconductors that all have different gaps in their energy bands, as well as insulators.

Additionally, combining the materials in this wider 2D group through layering results in heterostructures that possess unique physical properties of their own. This range of 2D materials and the heterostructures that can be formed when these 2D materials work in combination have a broad spectrum of applications, including electronics, optoelectronics, sensors, flexible and wearable devices, catalysis, and more.

This information has been sourced, reviewed and adapted from materials provided by The Graphene Council.

SOURCE: For more information on this source, please visit The Graphene Council.