Pulsar Helium Inc. has received the analytical laboratory results for gas samples from the Jetstream #1 appraisal well at the Topaz project in Minnesota.
As part of the appraisal well analysis, 11 samples were examined, four at Isotech Laboratories, Inc. (Isotech) and seven at Smart Gas Sciences LLC (Smart Gas).
The full suite of gas data was sent to Dr Peter Barry, a noble gas isotope geochemist and Associate Scientist (an advisor to Pulsar) at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI).
Woods concluded that the value of 13.8% helium represents a minimum source estimate for helium due to the clear presence of small amounts of atmospheric (air) contamination in the samples.
The presence of the contamination decreases the measured helium content relative to the true source helium concentration.
Cliff Cain, CEO of the Edelgas Group (an international gas advisor firm engaged by Pulsar), commented: “Comparing this to our extensive database for helium occurrences around the world, we are pleased to say the results from the Jetstream #1 appraisal well are the highest helium concentrations that we have ever seen.
“This marks an important milestone for Pulsar, and we are delighted with the positive outcome for our client.”
Helium concentrations at the Jetstream #1 appraisal well
The Jetstream #1 appraisal well reached a total depth of 2,200 feet. On 29 February, Pulsar revealed concentrations of up to 12.4% helium measured by the on-site quadrupole mass spectrometer.
More samples were collected at depth whilst drilling, stored in Isotube gas canisters and then sent to Isotech and Smart Gas for laboratory-based gas chemistry analysis.
The revised helium content of 13.8% is considered more reliable and more accurate than those obtained via the on-site quadrupole mass spectrometer.
Update on down-hole wireline logging data
Baker Hughes acquired the down-hole wireline logging data on 29 February and Pulsar awaits the petrophysical interpretation from a third-party petrophysicist.
Results will be shared on completion.
The flow-testing and pressure build up programme
Due to abnormally high winter temperatures and the earlier-than-anticipated onset of Spring Load Restrictions on local road systems, the well testing package that includes flow testing, a pressure build-up programme, and the collection of pressurised gas samples for laboratory analysis is delayed until mandated road conditions allow heavy traffic to return.
