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Resource Audit
MMX Mineração e Metálicos S.A.
Serra Azul Mines
Brazil

Prepared for:
MMX Mineração e Metálicos S.A.
Avenida Prudente de Morais1250
Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais
Brazil

SRK Project Number: 162700.10

Prepared by:

7175 W. Jefferson Avenue, Suite 3000
Lakewood, CO 80235

Effective Date: November 16, 2010
Report Date: January 5, 2011

Author:
Leah Mach, CPG, MSc

MMX Mineração e Metálicos S.A. I
Serra Azul Mines Resource Audit

Table of Contents
1 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................... 1-1
1.2.1 Sources of Information ......................................................................... 1-1
1.3.1 Site Visit................................................................................................ 1-2
2 PROPERTY DESCRIPTION AND LOCATION ........................................................... 2-1
3 GEOLOGICAL SETTING .............................................................................................. 3-1
3.1.1 Regional Structure ................................................................................ 3-1
3.2.1 Local Lithology..................................................................................... 3-4
3.2.2 Alteration .............................................................................................. 3-4
3.2.3 Structure ................................................................................................ 3-4
3.2.4 Metamorphism ...................................................................................... 3-5
4 MINERALIZATION ....................................................................................................... 4-1
5 DRILLING....................................................................................................................... 5-1
6 SAMPLING METHOD AND ANALYSIS..................................................................... 6-1
6.1.1 Logging and Sampling .......................................................................... 6-1
6.2.1 Logging and Sampling .......................................................................... 6-2
6.4.1 Sample Preparation ............................................................................... 6-3
6.4.2 Sample Analysis.................................................................................... 6-3
6.5.1 Comparison of Assayed and Calculated Global Grades ....................... 6-4
6.5.2 Stoichiometric Closure.......................................................................... 6-4
6.5.3 Certified Reference Material................................................................. 6-5
7 DATA VERIFICATION ................................................................................................. 7-1
8 MINERAL RESOURCES ESTIMATE .......................................................................... 8-1
9 RECOMMENDATIONS ................................................................................................. 9-1
10 REFERENCES .............................................................................................................. 10-1
11 GLOSSARY .................................................................................................................. 11-1
11.1.1 Mineral Resources .............................................................................. 11-1
11.1.2 Mineral Reserves ................................................................................ 11-1

List of Tables
Table 1: Drilling at the Serra Azul Mine ..................................................................................... IV
Table 2: Serra Azul Mineral Resource Statement, as of November 16, 2010* ........................... VI
Table 1.3.1: Key SRK Project Personnel .................................................................................... 1-2
Table 2.2.1: Serra Azul Land Tenure.......................................................................................... 2-1
Table 5.1.1: Comparison of Twin RC and Core Drillholes ........................................................ 5-1
Table 5.1.2: Drilling at Serra Azul.............................................................................................. 5-2
Table 6.4.1: Laboratories used for Sample Preparation and Analysis ........................................ 6-2
Table 6.4.1: Bureau Veritas Detection Limits ............................................................................ 6-4

SRK Consulting (U.S.), Inc. January 5, 2011
SerraAzulResource Audit_LMB_003.docx

MMX Mineração e Metálicos S.A. II

Table 8.1.2: Basic Statistics for Assays ...................................................................................... 8-1
Table 8.2.1: Basic Statistics of Metal Variables by Lithotypes used in Grade Estimation ........ 8-3
Table 8.3.1: Composite Statistics................................................................................................ 8-4
Table 8.4.1: Density of Lithotypes ............................................................................................. 8-5
Table 8.5.1: Variogram Parameters ............................................................................................ 8-6
Table 8.6.1: Block Model Dimensions and Origin ..................................................................... 8-7
Table 8.6.2: Estimation Parameters ............................................................................................ 8-7
Table 8.7.1: Basic Statistics of the Blocks.................................................................................. 8-8
Table 8.8.1: Serra Azul Classification Criteria ........................................................................... 8-9
Table 8.9.1: Serra Azul Mineral Resource Statement, as November 16, 2010* ...................... 8-10
Table 8.10.1: Measured and Indicated Grade and Tonnage by Fe Cutoff. ............................... 8-11
Table 8.10.2: Inferred Grade and Tonnage by Fe Cutoff ......................................................... 8-11
Table 11.2.1: Glossary .............................................................................................................. 11-2
Table 11.2.2: Abbreviations...................................................................................................... 11-3

List of Figures
Figure 2-1: General Location Map of the Serra Azul Mine........................................................ 2-2
Figure 3-1: Project Location within the São Francisco Craton................................................... 3-6
Figure 5-1: Drill Collar Location Map........................................................................................ 5-3
Figure 8-1: Drillhole Location Map with Topography and Mining Concessions .................... 8-13
Figure 8-2: Cross-sections with Geology and Drilling Looking East....................................... 8-14
Figure 8-3: Oblique View of Cross-sections Showing Change in Bedding Dip ...................... 8-15
Figure 8-4: Omni-Directional and Downhole Variograms for Iron, Friable and Compact Itabirite8-16
Figure 8-5: Cross-sections with Geology, Block Model and Drilling Looking East................ 8-17
Figure 8-6: Swath Plot Index Map and Iron Swath Plot ........................................................... 8-18
Figure 8-7: Cross-sections with Geology, Block Model Classification and Drilling ............... 8-19
Figure 8-8: Grade Tonnage Curves, Iron .................................................................................. 8-20


MMX Mineração e Metálicos S.A. III

Summary
Property Description and Location
The Serra Azul Mine (the Project) is located in the Serra Azul area in the state of Minas Gerais,
Brazil near the town of Igarapé, approximately 60km southwest of Belo Horizonte, the capital of
Minas Gerais. The Project consists of an operating mine and two beneficiation plants for the
production of lump and sinter feed.
Ownership
The Project is controlled by AVG Mineraçao S/A, a subsidiary of MMX Sudeste Mineração
Ltda. (MMX Sudeste), a 100% owned subsidiary of MMX Mineração e Metálicos S.A. (MMX).
Geology and Mineralization
The Project lies within the Quadrilátero Ferrífero (Iron Quadrangle). The geology of the Iron
Quadrangle has been studied since the 18th century and is one of the most important metallogenic
provinces in the world. The lithologies in this area include the Rio das Velhas and Minas
Supergroups, which are part of the crystalline basement. This area is known for its banded iron
formation (BIF) deposits.
In the Project area, the Serra das Farofas is composed of rocks from the Minas Supergroup that
are underlain by the Rio das Velhas Supergroup in a clear discordant contact. The Minas
Supergroup is subdivided, from youngest to oldest, into three groups:
Piracicaba Group;
Itabira Group; and
Caraça Group.
Locally, the stratigraphic sequence is inverted, with the most recent quartzitic formations of the
Piracicaba Group overlain by the itabirites of the Cauê Formation, Itabira Group, which, in turn,
is capped by the oldest phyllites and quartzites of the Caraça Group.
Within the pit area, the geology is dominated by four formations. From oldest to youngest, these
are the Batatal, Cauê, Gandarela and Cercadinho Formations. The Batatal Formation has been
thrust over the younger Cauê Formation, which has been thrust over the youngest Cercadinho
Formation. The deposit is crosscut by a northwest-trending, high-angle brittle fault that appears
to be offset by younger northeast trending faults.
The mineralization at the Project consists of metamorphosed BIF subsequently with strong
evidence of hydrothermal syngenetic formation with areas of supergene enrichment through
lateritic weathering. This results in a variety of different mineralization types. There are seven
distinct lithological ore types observed in this area of the Serra do Curral:
Canga;
Friable siliceous itabirite;
Friable rich itabirite;
Compact itabirite;
Friable hematite;


MMX Mineração e Metálicos S.A. IV

Compact hematite; and
Friable carbonate itabirite.
Exploration
Like most private iron mine operators in Brazil, AVG, Minerminas and prior operators have not
had extensive and detailed exploration programs. There has been minimal exploration drilling
prior to MMX’s involvement in the Project. Limited channel samples were collected in the pit
area.
Since 2005, 213 holes have been drilled at the Project, totaling 18,857M. The drilling consists of
both core and reverse circulation drilling. Table 1 lists the number of drillholes by program and
company and the laboratory that was used to analyze the samples.
Table 1: Drilling at the Serra Azul Mine
Number of Length Number of
Campaign Period Laboratory
Drillholes Type (m) Samples
FSAVG, FSAVGSB 11 HW Core 2005 440 50 AVG
Total AVG 11 2005 440 50
AVGMMX 9 HWL Core 2007 694 88 SGS
SEFDSF 26 HQ, HWL 2007-2008 1,459 273 SGS,MMX
FSMNM 3 HWL Core 2007-2008 191 34 MMX
FDSB, SEFDSB 50 HWL Core 2008 3,190 628 MMX
FDSF 6 HWL Core 2008 203 49 MMX
RPSF (RC) 19 4 or 5" 2009 2,836 522 SGS
FDSA 32 HQ, HN 2010 3,872 448 SGS, Bureau Veritas
FDSC 11 HQ 2010 590 * Bureau Veritas
RPSA (RC) 46 4.75 or 5" 2010 5,382 551 Bureau Veritas
Total MMX 202 2007-2010 18,417 2593
Total 213 2005-2010 18,857 2643

Mineral Resources
MMX prepared the resource estimation for Serra Azul under the direction of Ms Lilian
Grabellos, Manager of Resouces and Reserves. Leah Mach, Principal Resource Consultant with
SRK, audited the resource.
The drillhole sample database was compiled by MMX and verified by SRK and is determined to
be of high quality and suitable for resource estimation. SRK received the drillhole database as
four comma separated variable (csv) files consisting of:
Collar: Drillhole ID, easting, northing, elevation, and total depth;
Survey: Depth, azimuth, inclination;
Geology: From, to, lithology and code from drill log, modeled lithology and code from
cross-sections; and
Assay: Four files with one file for each of three size fraction groups and one for global,
containing from, to, Fe, SiO2, Al2O3, P, Mn and LOI.
Sixty-seven geologic cross-sections were constructed at 100 or 50m intervals depending on the
drill spacing. The cross-sections were used to prepare horizontal sections at 10m spacing from


MMX Mineração e Metálicos S.A. V

elevation 9550 to 1,365. The block model was coded from the horizontal sections. The
lithotypes that were used in grade estimation are Canga (CG), friable itabirite (IF), friable
carbonate itabirite (IFCA), and compact itabirite (IC).
MMX composited the samples on 5m intervals starting at the top of the drillhole with breaks at
the lithotype solid boundaries. MMX conducted variography studies on the AVG and
Minerminas properties separately because of the difference in the dip of the beds between the
two properties. The study included directional and downhole variograms as well as omni-
directional variograms. The omni-directional variogram was chosen as showing the best fit for
the data.
A block model was created that covers the entire AVG/Minerminas mine area. The block model
contains variables for:
Fe, SiO2, Al2O3, Mn, P, and LOI – global and for each of the three size fractions;
Lithotype;
Percentage below topography;
Estimation parameters – number of composites, number of drillholes, average distance of
composites used in estimation, and distance to closest composite; and
Class – 1=measured, 2=indicated, 3=inferred, 4=potential.
Block grades were estimated by ordinary kriging in three passes. Blocks were classified as
Measured, Indicated or Inferred after each estimation pass. Blocks that did not meet the
necessary criteria for classification were re-estimated in the next pass. The search ranges were
determined by the iron variogram range with the first pass at the variogram range and the second
at 150% of the range. The third pass was at 2000m to fill all the blocks in the model and
estimate a mineral potential. The estimation was conducted using block and composite lithotype
matching.
The resources were classified according to CIM classification as Measured, Indicated, or Inferred
based on the pass in which the block was estimated and the number of drillholes used in the
estimation. In order to control the depth to which the blocks could be classified, a surface was
generated at the base of the drillholes. This surface was lowered 20m and then uused to limit the
classification of measured, indicated, and inferred resources.
The Mineral Resources for the Serra Azul Mine as of November 16, 2010, on a wet tonnes basis
are presented in Table 2.


MMX Mineração e Metálicos S.A. VI

Table 2: Serra Azul Mineral Resource Statement, as of November 16, 2010*
Tonnes
ROCK CLASS (000's) Fe% SiO2% Al2O3% Mn% P% LOI%
Measured 158,368 51.14 23.36 1.8 0.047 0.049 1.261
Indicated 41,621 48.46 26.99 1.67 0.144 0.048 1.333
IF Total
M&I 199,989 50.58 24.12 1.77 0.07 0.05 1.28
Inferred 17 40.84 38.02 1.11 0.029 0.033 0.774
Measured 384,164 35.82 14.1 0.62 0.031 0.025 0.372
Indicated 252,657 34.32 49.23 0.7 0.082 0.025 0.519
IC Total
M&I 636,821 35.22 28.04 0.65 0.05 0.03 0.43
Inferred 3,939 30.57 53.25 0.78 0.341 0.049 1.652
Measured 37,491 32.97 44.3 3.64 0.832 0.081 2.799
Indicated 13,608 32.9 44 3.72 0.993 0.083 2.926
IFCA Total
M&I 51,099 32.95 44.22 3.66 0.87 0.08 2.83
Inferred 0
Measured 4,447 59.4 5.75 4.05 0.022 0.159 4.634
Indicated 7,170 55.37 8.1 5.69 0.037 0.226 5.801
CG Total
M&I 11,617 56.91 7.2 5.06 0.03 0.2 5.35
Inferred 5,535 53.01 10.98 6.16 0.045 0.218 5.998
Measured 584,440 39.97 40.37 1.16 0.087 0.036 0.801
Indicated 315,056 36.6 45.13 1.07 0.129 0.035 0.851
Total Total
M&I 899,496 38.79 42.04 1.13 0.1 0.04 0.82
Inferred 9,492 43.67 28.57 3.92 0.168 0.147 4.185
* Cut-off Grade 12% Fe; tonnes on a wet basis.

Recommendations
Analytical and QA/QC Data
MMX has a laboratory quality assurance/quality control program (QA/QC) in place and monitors
the laboratory results from these samples on a regular basis. The QA/QC samples includes
standard reference samples developed from Serra Azul material and pulp duplicates.
Resource Estimation
SRK recommends that MMX continue to drill additional holes into the compact itabirite to gain
additional samples and analysis and increase confidence in the grades at depth and to increase
the indicated resources in this rock type.


MMX Mineração e Metálicos S.A. 1-1

1 Introduction
SRK Consulting (U.S.), Inc., (SRK) was commissioned by MMX Mineração e Metálicos S.A.
(MMX) to audit resources at the Serra Azul Mine. The Project is located in the Serra Azul area
in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil near the town of Igarapé, located approximately 60km
southwest of Belo Horizonte, the capital of Minas Gerais. The Project consists of two
contiguous open pit mines and two beneficiation plants for the production of lump and sinter
feed. The Tico-Tico Mine was acquired by MMX as part of the acquisition of AVG Mineração
S.A. (AVG) in December 2007. The Ipê mine was acquired as part of the acquisition of
Mineradora Minas Gerais Ltda (Minerminas) in March 2008. The properties are operated by
MMX Sudeste Mineração Ltda. (MMX Sudeste), a 100% owned subsidiary of MMX.
This report is prepared using the industry accepted Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and
Petroleum (CIM) “Best Practices and Reporting Guidelines” for disclosing mineral exploration
information and CIM Definition Standards for Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves
(December 11, 2005).
Certain definitions used in this executive summary are defined in the body of this Technical
report on resources and in the glossary in Section 10.
1.1 Terms of Reference and Purpose of the Report
This audit of Mineral Resources is intended to be used by MMX to further the development of
the Project by providing an independent audit of the mineral resource estimates and classification
of resources. MMX may also use this Report for any lawful purpose to which it is suited.
1.2 Reliance on Other Experts
SRK’s opinion contained herein is based on information provided to SRK by MMX throughout
the course of SRK’s investigations as described in Section 1.2.1, which in turn reflect various
technical and economic conditions at the time of writing.
SRK reviewed certain materials pertaining to a limited amount of correspondence, pertinent
maps and agreements to assess the validity and ownership of the mining concessions. However,
SRK did not conduct an in-depth review of mineral title and ownership; consequently, no
opinion will be expressed by SRK on this subject.
SRK is of the opinion that the information concerning the properties presented in this report
(within or not produced by SRK) adequately describes the properties in all material respects.
1.2.1 Sources of Information
The underlying technical information upon which this Report is based represents a compilation
of work performed by MMX. The studies and additional references for this Technical Report on
Resources are listed in Section 10. SRK has reviewed the Project data and incorporated the
results thereof, with appropriate comments and adjustments as needed, in the preparation of this
Report on Resources.
The author reviewed data provided by MMX including hard copy and digital files located in the
Project and MMX’s offices in Brazil. Discussions on the geology and mineralization were
conducted with MMX’s technical team. The drillhole assay database was prepared by MMX and
verified by SRK.



Leah Mach is a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101.
1.3 Qualifications of Consultants (SRK)
The SRK Group is comprised of over 900 staff, offering expertise in a wide range of resource
engineering disciplines. The SRK Group’s independence is ensured by the fact that it holds no
equity in any project and that its ownership rests solely with its staff. This permits SRK to
provide its clients with conflict-free and objective recommendations on crucial judgment issues.
SRK has a demonstrated record of accomplishment in undertaking independent assessments of
Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves, project evaluations and audits, technical reports and
independent feasibility evaluations to bankable standards on behalf of exploration and mining
companies and financial institutions worldwide. The SRK Group has also worked with a large
number of major international mining companies and their projects, providing mining industry
consultancy service inputs.
This report has been prepared based on a technical and economic review by a team of consultants
sourced principally from the SRK Group’s Denver, US office. These consultants are specialists
in the fields of geology exploration, mineral resource and mineral reserve estimation and
classification, open pit mining, mineral processing and mineral economics.
Neither SRK nor any of its employees and associates employed in the preparation of this report
has any beneficial interest in MMX or in the assets of MMX. SRK will be paid a fee for this
work in accordance with normal professional consulting practice.
The individuals who have provided input to this Report, who are listed below, have extensive
experience in the mining industry and are members in good standing of appropriate professional
institutions. Ms. Leah Mach is a Qualified Person under Canadian Instrument NI 43-101
guidelines.
Table 1.3.1: Key SRK Project Personnel
Name Responsibility
Leah Mach Geology, Resources, Project Manager
Neal Rigby Reviewer

1.3.1 Site Visit
Leah Mach, Qualified Persons for this report, made site visits to the Property on June 27 and
October 7, 2007, February 13, 2009 and June 30, 2010. The site visits consisted of reviewing the
drill core and logging procedures, visiting the open pit and observing the operations and product
types, visiting the beneficiation plant, and touring the property to see the tailings facility and
waste dumps.
1.4 Units of Measure
Metric units are used throughout this report, except where otherwise stated.
1.5 Effective Date
The effective date of this Audit of Resources is November 16, 2010. The resource estimation
includes drilling through November 10, 2010. The topography is current as of November 16,
2010.



2 Property Description and Location
2.1 Property Location
The Project is located approximately 60km southwest of Belo Horizonte, and approximately
560km northwest of Rio de Janeiro in Minas Gerais State, Brazil (Figures 2-1 and 2-2). The
Project consists of three contiguous licenses in the Serra Azul Mountain Range, located near the
city of Igarapé in the southwest part of the Quadrilátero Ferrífero (Iron Quadrangle). The Project
also includes six exploration claims surrounding the licenses. The licenses lie between
20°07’30”S and 20°06’30S and between 44°17’W and 44°19’W (Figure 2-3). The Project lies
within the municipalities of Brumadinho, Igarapé, Itatiaiuçu, Mateus Leme and São Joaquim de
Bicas.
2.2 Mineral Titles
MMX holds the mineral rights through leases and ownership. Table 2.2.1 presents the mining
and exploration licenses and requests for exploration licenses controlled by MMX in the Serra
Azul area. The holder of the three mining licenses is Companhía de Mineração Serra da Farofa
(CEFAR) and MMX has lease agreements with CEFAR for each one. Brazilian Mining Law
allows holders of Exploration or Mining Licenses to totally or partially assign or transfer these
claims to a third party, with DNPM’s approval. The three mining licenses cover 509.71ha, the
exploration licenses cover 4,331ha and areas requested for exploration cover 6,393.38ha.
Table 2.2.1: Serra Azul Land Tenure
Area Validity
Claim Holder Location* Mineral(s) (ha) Permit Term
Cia. de Mineração Serra Igarapé, Brumadinho and São Not
801.908/68 Iron 351.64 Mining
da Farofa - CEFAR Joaquim de Bicas Applicable
Cia. de Mineração Serra Not
805.374/71 Brumadinho and Igarapé Iron 83.37 Mining
da Farofa - CEFAR Applicable
Cia. de Mineração Serra Not
5.182/58 Brumadinho Iron 74.70 Mining
da Farofa - CEFAR Applicable
Exploration September
833.379/2004 AVG Igarapé,Itatiaiuçu,Mateus Leme Iron 1,035.00
License 2012
Exploration
832.182/2006 AVG Itatiaiuçu,Mateus Leme Iron 1,400.00 May 2013
License
Exploration
830.632/2006 AVG Brumadinho, Igarapé Iron 1,896.00 July 2013
License
Exploration
830.633/2006 AVG Brumadinho, Igarapé, Itatiaiuçu Iron 1,881.25
Request
Exploration
831.243/2006 AVG Mateus Leme Iron 960.00
Request
Brumadinho, S. Joaquim Exploration
832.183/2006 AVG Iron 1,912.50
de Bicas Request
830.826/2010 AVG Iron 7.97
de Bicas Request
Exploration
831.713/2010 AVG Brumadinho Iron 12.01
Request
Exploration
832.607/2010 AVG Brumadinho Iron 261.47
Request
834.356/2020 AVG Iron 1,358.18
de Bicas Request
*City or District


SERRA AZUL MINE

Serra Azul Mine, General Location Map of the
Brazil Serra Azul Project Mine
SRK Job No.: 162700.10

File Name: Figure 2-1.doc
Source: MMX Mineração e Metálicos S.A Date: 12/20/10 Approved: LEM Figure: 2-1

Serra Azul Mine, Site Location Map of the
Brazil Serra Azul Mine
SRK Job No.: 162700.10
Source: MMX Mineração e Metálicos S.A Date 12/20/10 Approved: LEM Figure: 2-2

832182/2006

Exploration License
Mining License
Request for Exploration
Municipal Limits

Serra Azul Mine, Mineral Licenses
Brazil Serra Azul Mine
SRK Job No.: 162700.10


3 Geological Setting
3.1 Regional Geology
The Project area is situated in the western portion of the Iron Quadrangle near Belo Horizonte,
Minas Gerais, in the Serra do Curral homocline. Mineralization is hosted by the Minas
Supergroup which is dominated by supracrustal metasedimentary and metavolcanic rocks.
Intrusive rocks are rarely found in the area but where present, are basic sills and dikes up to 1m
wide. Regional metamorphism reached the greenschist facies during multiple episodes of
deformation.
3.1.1 Regional Structure
The Project area lies within the São Francisco Craton tectonic province of South America shown
in Figure 3-1. The Project is located in the extreme west of the Serra do Curral homocline and in
the north/northwest limit of the Iron Quadrangle. This region has a complex tectonic-
metamorphic history and is part of the basement of the southern portion of the São Francisco
Craton. The São Francisco Craton (Almeida et al 1981) tectonic province was not affected by
the Brazilian deformation but is bordered by Brazilian fold belts that developed during
orogenesis culminating in the formation of Gondwana approximately 650 Ma. The basement of
the craton was subjected to the Jequié/Rio das Velhas and Transamazonic tectonic-metamorphic
events that preceded the Brazilian deformation. There are various evolutionary models proposed
for the Iron Quadrangle region, and this area is still extensively studied.
Among the large-scale structures in the Iron Quadrangle are the:
Serra do Curral homocline;
Serra da Moeda syncline; and
Dom Bosco Syncline.
The Serra do Curral homocline is located in the north and has a NE-SW strike and dips SE.
Serra Moeda is located in the west part of the Iron Quadrangle and is the west limb of a syncline
which has an N-S axis and dips to the south. The Dom Bosco syncline is in the south and has an
E-W axis and is connected to the Serra Moeda syncline on the west side. There is also the Falha
do Engenho zone of trans-current shearing, the Mariana anticline to the southeast and the Santa
Rita syncline to the east. According to Dorr (1969), the Santa Rita syncline corresponds to the
major and most complex folding of the region. Finally, the Gandarela isoclinal syncline is
located to the northeast with SE dipping limbs and the Fundão-Cambotas fault system that
extends for almost the entire length of the east border. Figure 3-2 shows the homocline,
synclines and anticlines in the region.
Serra do Curral Homocline
There have been five different interpretations for the formation of the Serra do Curral homocline
as listed below:
The homocline is a section of the Serra dos Três Irmãos region (Eichler, 1964);
The homocline is the south limb of the Piedade syncline (Dorr, 1969);
Pires (1979) interpreted the homocline as related to an anticline;



Alkmim and Marshak (1998) interpret the structure as the inverted flank of a regional
anticline; and
Oliveira et al. (2005) interpret the homocline as the overturned limb of a recumbent
allochthonous megafold, referred to as the Curral Nappe.
Figure 3-3 shows schematic sections showing each author’s interpretation, which are discussed
in detail below.
Dorr (1969). The first interpretation was proposed by Eichler (1964) and is shown in Figure 3-3
schematic section (a). Eichler (1964) interprets the homocline as a section of the Serra dos Três
Irmãos region that has been brought in through thrust faults that trend to the north.
According to Simmons (1968), the Serra do Curral homocline is the south limb of the Piedade
syncline, as suggested by Dorr (1969). This is shown in schematic section (b) in Figure 3-3.
This structure is well characterized at the NE limit of the Serra do Curral (Serra da Piedade),
where the two limbs of the syncline are recognized, a fact that leads Simmons (1968) to believe
that the homocline represents one of the limbs of this megastructure. The Serra do Curral
homocline, dipping to the SE, is characterized by secondary folding with axial planes oblique to
the direction of the mountain ridge. Also recognized were small reverse faults, direction parallel
to the syncline with displacement to the SE and normal faults of high angle that cut the
megastructure.
Pires (1979) was the first author to propose that the regional folding is related to an anticline.
Through work that was done at the junction of the Serra do Curral homocline with the Moeda
syncline, Pires (1979) proposes schematic section (c) shown in Figure 3-3. In this section, Pires
(1979) shows an anticline, whose inverse limb (the north limb) would represent the Serra do
Curral homocline. This structure is limited at the base by the Falha Curral, a thrust fault and the
schists to the north, which are part of the Rio das Velhas Supergroup.
Romano (1989) determined the petrographic and textural characteristics of the metavolcanic
rocks of the regions of Mateus Leme to Esmeraldas and of Pará de Minas to the Pitangui.
According to the author, such rocks represent the continuity of the Rio das Velhas Supergroup in
the Occidental Serra do Curral. In this region, Romano (1989) identified thrust faults sectioning
the Rio das Velhas Supergroup, among various other deformational features. The structures are
attributed to two phases of regional deformation (Dn and D1). The first deformation affected
only the Rio das Velhas Supergroup and the second that extended to the Minas Supergroup in the
west portion of the Serra do Curral homocline. The second regional deformation was of a
progressive compressional character.
In the contact between the Sabará Group and the Belo Horizonte Metamorphic Complex, in the
region of Ibirité, southwest of the city of Belo Horizonte, Marshak et al. (1992) and Jordt-
Evangelista et al. (1992), identified a zone of normal shearing and characterized three zones of
contact metamorphism. They are, from NW to SE the zones of cordierite-sillimanite, of
staurolite-andalusite-cordierite and of biotite. This situation exemplifies the metamorphic
aureoles that occur in the contact zones of the supercrustal rocks with the basement metamorphic
complexes, in response to the formation of domes and synclines.
Endo and Machado (1997) interpret the Serra do Curral homocline as part of a syncline,
characterized by the absence of a northern rim, or limb, at the western limit of the structure.
Endo and Machado (1997) observed that on the southern rim/limb the rocks of the Minas



Supergroup are in normal stratigraphic sequence with inclinations that vary from moderate to
high while on the northern rim/limb the stratigraphic sequence is inverted. According to Endo
and Machado (1997), the Zone of Normal Shearing (the Moeda-Bonfim zone) in contact between
the Bonfim Metamorphic Complex and the supracrustal rocks along the Serra da Moeda, extends
to the Serra do Curral homocline. Here, the zone of normal shearing it is identified by the Souza
Nochese Zone of Shearing. Thus, the principal structural features are:
Sub-orthogonal between the synforms Moeda and Curral;
Breaking and absence of north rim/limb of the syncline;
Normal ductile shearing between the metasediments and the Bonfim Complex; and
Stratigraphic inversions in the south rim/limb of the synform.
Based on these structures, Endo and Machado (1997) propose eight events of deformation for the
region: four in the Neo-Archean and four in the Proterozoic, all of co-axial character.
Alkmim & Marshak (1998) observed parasitic asymmetric folding and mesoscopic faults
trending to the NW at the western limit of the Serra do Curral homocline. This observation led
to the interpretation that the Serra do Curral homocline may be the inverted flank of a regional
anticline with polarity to the NW. According to Alkmim & Marshak (1996), at the Curral-
Moeda junction, the Curral anticline is refolded the Moeda syncline. The development of the
mega-anticline would be related to a compressive event, during the Transamazonic period and
older than the extension that resulted in doming and syncline formation. Alkmim and Marshak’s
(1998) interpretation is shown in Figure 3-3 section (d).
Finally, the relations proposed by Oliveira et al. (2005) for the region of Itatiaiuçu, is shown in
Figure 3-3 section (e). According to the Oliveira et al. (2005), the schistocity observed in the
rocks of the Minas Supergroup and Rio das Velhas in the entire Serra do Curral region, is the
same that predominates in the sedimentary layering and schistocity in the mesoscopic folds with
overturned limbs. According to the authors, the Serra do Curral homocline is the overturned
limb of a allochthonous recumbent megafold, trending to the north-northeast, and referred to by
Oliveira et al (2005) as the Curral Nappe.
3.2 Local Geology
In the Project area, the Serra das Farofas is composed of rocks from the Minas Supergroup that
are underlain by the Rio das Velhas Supergroup in an unconformity. The Minas Supergroup is
subdivided, from youngest to oldest, into three groups:
Piracicaba Group;
Itabira Group; and
Caraça Group.
Locally, the stratigraphic sequence is inverted, with the most recent quartzitic formations of the
Piracicaba Group overlain by the itabirites of the Cauê Formation, part of the Itabira Group,
which, in turn, is capped by the oldest phyllites and quartzites of the Caraça Group. This
stratigraphic inversion, as discussed in Section 5.1.1, characterizes the mountain ridge and is
most likely the rim of a recumbent fold.



3.2.1 Local Lithology
The Caraça Group is subdivided into the Moeda (lower) and Batatal (upper) Formations. The
Moeda Formation is composed, principally, of coarse quartzites, metaconglomerates, and
phyllites. According to Renger et al. (1994), the Moeda Formation has a maximum age of
2.65Ga, and was deposited in a fluvial environment. Over time, this depositional environment
evolved into a marine-platform identified as the Batatal Formation. The Batatal Formation is
composed, predominantly, of phyllites and graphitic phyllites. Its maximum age of deposition is
2.5Ga (Renger et. al. 1994) and the Batatal Formation has a gradational contact with the Itabira
Group.
The Itabira Group is essentially composed of chemical sediments, a characteristic that separates
it from the Caraça Group. It is of great economic importance, as it hosts world class deposits of
iron and manganese, associated with gold and bauxite. It is divided, from base to top, into the
Cauê and Gandarela Formations. The Cauê Formation is composed of itabirites, dolomitic
itabirites, amphibolitic itabirites, carbonate itabirites and lenses of marl and phyllites. Due to
their resistance to weathering, the itabirites form the principal ridges of the region with extensive
escarpments, such as the Serra do Curral. The Cauê Formation represents the principal target of
research work. Since the Gandarela Formation does not occur in the area researched, is the Cauê
Formation is in direct contact with the Piracicaba Group.
The Piracicaba Group is divided, from base to top, into the Cercadinho, Fecho do Funil, Taboões
and Barreiro Formations. The Cercadinho Formation is the only one of this group that is
identified in the Project area, being composed of quartzites and graphitic phyllites, of light grey
coloring that occurs in the north part of the area. According to Renger et al. (1994), this group
represents a new period of tectonic movement in the Minas Basin, initiated around 2.4Ga.
The rocks show a general E-W direction with dips varying between 45º and 50º to the south with
some local variations occasioned by secondary asymmetric folding and by transverse faulting of
the structure.
3.2.2 Alteration
Alteration in the area is described as intense silicification of compact itabirite resulting from
hydrothermal activity.
3.2.3 Structure
The dominant structure in the project area is an antiform overturned to the north. The upper limb
has been completely eroded, leaving only the inverted lower limb.
As a result of the numerous deformational episodes, bedding is rarely observed and then only in
the quartzite and phyllite of the Cercadinho Formation. However, the principal foliation, Sn is
well developed in all of the local lithologies. The Sn foliation dips approximately 30º to 40°S in
the northern part of the project and increases to about 70°S in the southern part of the area. This
suggests that the Project is located on the inverted limb of an isoclinal anticline with vergence to
the north. Small scale, asymmetric folds with amplitudes from centimeter to meter scale are
observed at the Project where cataclasite has also been observed. These folds are typically tight
with E-W axes. Intense folding is seen in the BIF, often obliterating the primary structures.
The contacts between formations show tectonic textures and are interpreted to be thrust faults.
Normal faults are also observed in the project area.



3.2.4 Metamorphism
The metamorphism identified in the Project area is related to continental collision during the
Transamazonian Orogeny. Metamorphic grade in the Iron Quadrangle increases from west to
east as described by Dorr (1969). The rocks of the western and central portions reached
greenschist facies whereas those in the east reached the almandine-amphibolite facies. In the
Serra do Curral, metamorphism of greenschist facies predominates.
Itabirite is a highly deformed rock with a composition derived by tectonic and metamorphic
processes. Small preserved nuclei of magnetite in the interior of hematite crystals suggest that
the greater part of these rocks were oxidized by hydrothermal solutions during the deformational
processes. The most common minerals in BIF, other than quartz, are siderite, ankerite, ferroan
dolomite, magnetite, martite and, locally, chlorite. Martite is a product of altered magnetite and
ankerite and is often a secondary mineral.
3.3 Project Geology
Within the pit area, the geology is dominated by four formations. From oldest to youngest, these
are the Batatal, Cauê, Gandarela and Cercadinho Formations. The pit geology is shown in
Figure 3-4, and Figure 3-5 shows north-south cross-sections 573050 and 574250 through the
mine area. The Batatal Formation has been thrust over the younger Cauê Formation, which has
been thrust over the youngest Cercadinho Formation. The deposit is crosscut by a northwest-
trending, high-angle brittle fault that appears to be offset by younger northeast trending faults.
The dominant structural features consist of Sn foliation, fracture planes and minor fold axes.
Foliation is the most conspicuous planar element within the pit and is preferentially developed in
the enriched itabirite. The Sn foliation strikes NW-SE and dips both NE and SW suggesting the
presence of a larger fold. Parasitic fold axes typically trend 150º to 200º.
Well-defined fracture planes are found in both the friable itabirite and compact itabirite. It is
typically more prominent in the compact itabirite. The fracture planes have two predominant
orientations. One strikes NW and dips NE the other strikes NNE and dips SE. These fabrics
often host breccia zones with areas of significantly enriched iron.


Três Marias Formation
São Francisco Supergroup
Other units of São Francisco
Supergroup
Espinhaço Supergroup

Piracicaba and
Sabará Groups
Itabira Group

Caraça Group

Rio das Velhas Supergroup

Basement

Normal Fault
Thrust Fault
Foliation
Bedding
Metamorphic Aureole

Serra Azul Mine

Serra Azul Mine Project Location within the
Brazil São Francisco Craton
SRK Job No.: 162700.10 Source: Marshak & Alkmim 1989 and
Alkmim & Marshak 1998
File Name: Figure 3-1 Date: 12/20/10 Approved: LEM Figure: 3-1

Serra Azul
Mine Area

Serra Azul Mine Location of Large Structures
Brazil in the
Serra Azul Mine Area
SRK Job No.: 162700.10 Source: Modified from Alkmim & Noce
2006 after Dorr (1969) and Romano (1989)
File Name: Figure 3-2.doc Date: 12/20/10 Approved: DKB Figure: 3-2

Sources:
a) Schematic section proposed by Eichler (1964) in the region of the Serra dos Três Irmãos;
b) Section proposed by Dorr (1969), section NW-SE in the Quadrilátero Ferrífero;
c) Section proposed by Pires (1979) for the region of junction of the Serra do Curral with the Moeda syncline;
d) Section proposed by Alkmim & Marshak (1998) for the region west of the homocline of the Serra do Curral;
e) Schematic section proposed by Endo et al (2005) for the region of Itatiaiuçu (Section Itatiaiuçu). (Fm.
Formation, Gr. Group, Sgp. Supergroup, ST Topographic Surface).

Serra Azul Mine Geological Sections Proposed
Brazil for the Region of the
SRK Job No.: 162700.10
Serra do Curral
File Name: Figure 3-3.doc Date: 12/20/10 Approved: LEM Figure: 3-3

COMPACT AMPHIPLITIC ITABIRITE

Serra Azul Mine Geological Map of the
Brazil Serra Azul Mine Area
SRK Job No.: 162700.10

Cross-section 573050 North-South

Cross-section 574250 North-South

Serra Azul Mine North-south Cross-sections
Brazil through the Serra Mine in the
SRK Job No.: 162700.10
Minerminas Area


4 Mineralization
4.1 Mineralized Zones
The mineralization at the Project consists of metamorphosed BIF with strong evidence of
hydrothermal syngenetic formation with areas of supergene enrichment from subsequent lateritic
weathering. This results in a variety of different mineralization types. There are seven distinct
mineralization types at the Project:
Canga;
Friable siliceous itabirite;
Friable rich itabirite;
Compact itabirite;
Friable hematite;
Compact hematite; and
Friable carbonate itabirite.
Canga is the product of chemical weathering of all the types of friable ore. It generally has more
elevated grades of aluminum, phosphorous, and greater loss on ignition (LOI). It occurs in three
stratigraphic locations: at the top of the BIF, in the base of the southern Serra das Farofas and
over the schists of the Batatal Formation. In the Batatal Formation, canga is formed in the iron
ore colluvium. In some areas, it has elevated iron grades, due to the nature of the source rock.
The presence of visible hematite clasts is common and goethite and limonite commonly occur
with secondary minerals, increasing the hardness.
The friable itabirite is confined to the proximities of compact itabirite or of zones of
silicification. The principal characteristics of this type of ore are the grades of silica that vary
from 6% to 10% and in granulometry that is above 19mm. The bands are composed of friable
hematite intercalated with bands of recrystallized quartz.
Compact itabirites occurs at the base of the friable itabirites and as small elongated bodies
preferentially oriented WNW/ESE within the friable itabirite. These last are protoliths of proto-
ore that remain after intense weathering and/or hydrothermal alteration along certain preferential
directions such as the axis of folds.
The friable carbonate itabirite is characterized by intercalations of clay bands alternating with
bands of friable and compact hematite. The bands of clay are generally light rose colored but
locally may be white in color. Where these bands are white, kaolinite is often present. The
texture is banded, with bands up to 40 to 50cm in width. Where kaolinite is common in the clay-
rich bands, internal breccia texture are observed. The clay bands of clay also contain isolated
crystals of euhedral quartz and specularite, both of which are coarse to very coarse in grain size.
The euhedral quartz and the specularite are the product of secondary alteration, growing over the
original texture of these rocks. The hematite bands are fine and even occur as films intercalated
with clay minerals. Friable hematite also occurs disseminated within the clay bands.



4.2 Relevant Geological Controls
The mineralization at the Serra Azul Mine shows strong evidence for both structural and
lithological controls. There is also evidence for hydrothermal origin for the iron formation, with
later supergene modification that probably caused major enrichment in addition to “softening” of
the ore. The hypogene phase is associated with D1 folding during which, hydrothermal fluids
ascended to the surface as a result of decompression. This would also permit meteoric fluids to
descend along the normal faults causing mixing resulting in oxidizing conditions and the
formation of magnetite and carbonates, as described by Rosière et al. (2008). In this model, Fe-
rich hydrothermal dolomite could be formed during the tight folding. Later, oxidization of the
Fe-rich dolomite caused leaching of Mg, Ca and CO2, resulting in the formation of hematite.
Subsequent weathering resulted in supergene enrichment and “softening” of the ore. These same
normal faults would be the preferred routes for the meteoric fluids to circulate to deeper parts of
the system. At the Project, this faulting could be represented by the high-angle brittle faults
observed in the pit.
The genesis of the friable carbonate itabirite with hypogene characteristics, could be controlled
by D1 folding, that channelized mineralizing hydrothermal fluids parallel to the layering or
compositional banding. Higher-grade ore is concentrated in these folded areas. In the locations
where the fluid/rock ratio was higher, bands of compact hematite were generated, possibly by
leaching or complete substitution of the pre-existent carbonates. Nearby, where the fluid/rock
ratio was less, the leaching/substitution of the carbonates was not complete, some carbonate
remained that, subsequently leached during supergene alteration, generating the contaminated
friable ore. This high-grade ore is generally porous and almost always contains remnants of
weathered carbonate, observed as the orange to ochre colored interstitial material.
Another observation at the Serra Azul Mine, primarily at AVG, is the close relationship between
breccias and/or veined areas with the high-grade friable ore and the rich itabirite. It has been
observed that in areas with the greatest amount of breccias with carbonate veins and veinlets, it is
likely that friable ore or rich itabirite will be present. This is also characteristic of areas only
affected by carbonate veins and veinlets. The carbonate veins can be parallel as shown in Figure
7-2 or may crosscut itabirite banding. Portions of compact itabirite are common in the middle of
friable ore.
The contacts between friable and compact ores may be sharp or transitional. Where there are
carbonate veins/veinlets there is a tendency for the intensity of friability to be greater than the
areas without carbonate veining.
Iron remobilization most likely occurred as an association with hydrothermal fluids, resulting in
the formation of concordant and discordant hematite veins. These veins are often breccia zones
filled by hematite. Some of the remobilized material is composed of magnetite. The process of
quartz remobilization was very intense in some areas, resulting in breccia formation and
silicification of the itabirite. Quartz remobilization often results in high compactness to the
itabirite (hard itabirite). In places, the orientation of these silicified zones appears, to be
controlled by the hinges of D1 folds, where it is parallel to the banding. However, in other areas
the pattern is rather complex.



5 Drilling
5.1 Type and Extent of Drilling
Core drilling in the Project area by MMX was performed by Vórtice Sondagens e Serviços de
Mineração, Ltda. (Vórtice) and Geológica e Sondagens Ltda. (Geosol), both based in Belo
Horizonte. MMX also conducted reverse circulation (RC) drilling with contractor, Geosol
Geosedna Perfurações and Especiais S.A. (Geosedna), also based in Belo Horizonte.
A total of 18,858m have been drilled at the Project in 149 core holes and 64 RC holes. Holes
were drilled on a slightly irregular 100m x 100m grid.
Core
All core holes are HQ or HW sized core (77.8mm), and were drilled using a conventional drill
rig. Sixty-one holes are vertical and the remaining holes were drilled at inclinations between -
60° and -77° to the north. The hole depth varies from 11m to 268m with an average of 72m.
RC Drilling
The RC holes were drilled with a hammer or tricone depending on the hardness of the rock. The
diameter of the hole drilled by hammer is 5in and the diameter of the hole drilled by tricone is
4in. All holes were drilled at an inclination of 70° to the north. The average depth of the holes is
125m, with a minimum of 35m and a maximum of 280m.
The technique of RC drilling was new to the AVG/Minerminas project in 2009. In order to
assess the results of RC drilling, two twin holes were drilled for comparison. Table 5.1.1
presents the twin drillholes and the results for the matching intervals. RPSF15 and SEFDSF08
are not true twins as one is vertical and the other angled at -70 to the north, however, the results
for the friable and compact itabirite are quite similar. The holes were collared on the fines
stockpile, so the initial interval would not necessarily be expected to be similar. The twins,
FSAVGB05 and RPSF16, show similar grades in the canga, but the RC hole has higher grades in
the friable itabirite.
Table 5.1.1: Comparison of Twin RC and Core Drillholes
Drilled Vertical
Drillhole Orientation From To Interval Thickness Lith Fe SiO2 Al2O3 P Mn LOI
0.0 12.0 12.0 12.0 FS 49.10 24.95 2.43 0.072 0.01 2.42
RPSF15 Vertical
17.0 51.0 34.0 34.0 IF,IC 50.87 26.11 0.47 0.014 0.01 0.27
0.0 11.3 11.3 10.6 FS 44.40 31.70 1.60 0.052 0.01 1.38
SEFDSF08 North,-70
16.9 52.6 35.7 33.5 IF,IC 52.02 24.20 0.52 0.011 0.02 0.17
0.0 8.2 8.2 8.2 CG 63.79 2.42 2.57 0.057 0.03 3.51
FSAVGSB05 Vertical
12.7 39.9 27.2 27.1 IF,IC 47.91 29.67 0.56 0.014 0.02 1.06
0.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 CG 60.20 12.00 1.47 0.020 0.01 0.86
RPSF16 Vertical
12.0 37.0 25.0 25.0 IF 56.84 16.72 1.02 0.012 0.01 0.71

SRK also reviewed the drillholes in cross-section and did not detect a noticeable difference in
grades between the RC and core holes.
Table 5.1.2 lists the number of drillholes by program and company.



Table 5.1.2: Drilling at Serra Azul
Number of Length Number of
Campaign Period Laboratory
Drillholes Type (m) Samples
FSAVG, FSAVGSB 11 HW Core 2005 440 50 AVG
Total AVG 11 2005 440 50
AVGMMX 9 HWL Core 2007 694 88 SGS
SEFDSF 26 HQ, HWL 2007-2008 1,459 273 SGS,MMX
FSMNM 3 HWL Core 2007-2008 191 34 MMX
FDSB, SEFDSB 50 HWL Core 2008 3,190 628 MMX
FDSF 6 HWL Core 2008 203 49 MMX
RPSF (RC) 19 4 or 5" 2009 2,836 522 SGS
FDSA 32 HQ, HN 2010 3,872 448 SGS, Bureau Veritas
FDSC 11 HQ 2010 590 * Bureau Veritas
RPSA (RC) 46 4.75 or 5" 2010 5,382 551 Bureau Veritas
Total MMX 202 2007-2010 18,417 2593
Total 213 2005-2010 18,857 2643
*Assays not received at time of estimation

5.2 Procedures
The drillhole locations are first determined by the supervising geologist. Drill access is provided
by clearing trails and drill pads with the use of a dozer. For inclined holes, a line is drawn
between two stakes in the azimuth direction and the drill rig is aligned with it. The inclination of
the drill rig is set by a MMX technician using the inclinometer of a Brunton compass. Upon
completion of the drillhole, the final collar location is then surveyed by Prisma Produtos e
Serviços Ltda. ME (Prisma) using a Topcon Total Station, 239W, 3003W or 3005W. Prisma
then generates a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet and/or a certified report in PDF format.
The drilling at the Project has focused on the pit area. In general, the drillholes are on north-
south section lines spaced at 100m. The drillholes on section line are about 100m apart. Drilling
is limited by pit walls and areas of active mining, so the 100m by 100m is not completely filled.
The drillholes were not drilled to a uniform elevation, consequently, the drillhole spacing is
wider with depth below the surface. Core recovery is typically in excess of 90%. Figure 5-1 is
a plan map showing the location of drillholes.
5.3 Results
The compact and friable itabirites have varying hardness, which may result in different drill
recoveries and possible loss of material in friable zones. Core recovery averages more than 90%
for all zones and RC recovery was generally greater than 70%. SRK did not observe problems
with loss of material in friable intervals. A comparison of twin RC and core holes and visual
examination of RC holes by cross-section did not detect a bias between the two drilling methods.
MMX is using industry best practices for exploration drilling programs at the Project.


Serra Azul Mine Drill Collar Location Map
Brazil

SRK Job No.: 162700.10

File Name: Figure 5-1.doc Date: 12/20/10 Approved: DKB Figure: 5-1


6 Sampling Method and Analysis
6.1 Core Drilling
At the drill rig, the drill core is placed in wooden boxes, and washed of all foreign material. A
technician delivers the boxes to the logging area where they are placed either in the sun or under
a roof until they are completely air-dried. The drill core is photographed before and after
sampling to record geological descriptions and sampling intervals. Geologic logging and
identification of sample intervals are carried out by the project geologist. This process identifies
the different litho types, geological contacts, zones of fault or fracture, ferruginous zones and
internal waste.
MMX personnel supervise all sample security. The drill core is collected from drill sites, logged
and sampled under the direction and control of MMX. SRK is of the opinion that there has been
no tampering with the samples.
6.1.1 Logging and Sampling
The HW-sized drill core is first photographed, and then logged by a geologist onto a
standardized paper form. Data from the geological log is entered into an acQuire database, the
geological database management system developed by acQuire Technology Solutions Pty Ltd.
During core logging, the geologist marks the beginning and end of each sample interval on the
box. Sample breaks are at changes in lithology and friability with some consideration placed on
visual estimations of Fe percentage. Sampling is conducted only within the ferruginous zones.
Sample intervals have a minimum length of 1m and a maximum length of 5m. The preferred
sample interval ranges between 3m and 5m (80% of samples). Zones of internal waste within
mineralized intervals are sampled and material outside the ferruginous zone is not sampled.
Samples are collected by a trained sampler under the supervision of a technician or a geologist
following a sampling plan produced by acQuire. The sampling plan contains the identification
of primary and check samples according to MMX's QA/QC policy (see Section 11.4). The core
is split lengthwise using a diamond core saw in the competent zones and a specially designed
scoop in the highly weathered zones. The sample is placed in a plastic bag with a sample tag.
The plastic sample bag is further marked in two places on the outside with the sample
identification. The sample bags are then sealed and sent to the laboratory for physical and
chemical analysis. The remaining core is archived for future reference.
6.2 RC Drilling
The RC drilling is conducted dry, without injecting water. The sample was discharged from the
center tube return through a hose to a cyclone. The entire sample was collected over 1m
intervals in plastic bags. The bags were marked with the drillhole number and from and to
meterage. The bags were weighed by Geosedna personnel and the weights recorded on a form
for MMX. A small sample was collected for logging and stored in wooden boxes with 30
compartments and a hinged cover.
MMX personnel supervise all sample security. The samples were collected from drill sites,
logged and sampled under the direction and control of MMX. SRK is of the opinion that there
has been no tampering with the samples.



6.2.1 Logging and Sampling
The RC chips are logged by the geologist at the core facility and data from the geological log is
entered into an acQuire database. The 1m samples are grouped into 5m intervals with breaks at
lithological changes and the sample intervals are entered on a sampling form.
Samples are sent to a commercial laboratory in Belo Horizonte where they are composited into
the sample intervals indicated by the geologist. The compositing procedure is described in
Section 11.
6.3 Factors Impacting Accuracy of Results
The compact and friable itabirites have varying hardness and will have varying drill recoveries.
The varying hardness of the mineralized material forces the sampler to use two techniques for
core sample collection, which can make it difficult to collect a representative sample. MMX
uses a saw for compact material and a trowel for friable material, which is industry standard.
Because MMX uses lithological controls for sample intervals that are based on friability versus
compactness, the different material hardness does not present a problem. In addition, the core
recovery is good to excellent, averaging over 90%. RC drilling may also encounter problems at
changes in rock hardness or void spaces. SRK saw no evidence that there is a sampling problem
or sample bias introduced at the Project due to varying hardness.
MMX is conducting the sampling according to industry best practices for iron deposits.
6.4 Sample Preparation and Analysis
Before MMX acquired the property, sample preparation and analysis were performed at the
AVG laboratory on the AVG property. During the initial exploration phase and in 2009, MMX
used SGS Geosol Laboratórios, Ltda. (SGS) located in Belo Horizonte. For part of 2008, MMX
used the laboratory at Mine 63 operated by its subsidiary, MMX-Corumbá Mineração Ltda.
(MMX-Corumbá). In 2010, MMX used SGS and the Bureau Veritas laboratory in Belo
Horizonte. The following sections describe the sample preparation, analysis and Laboratory
QA/QC for the samples sent to the Bureau Veritas laboratory. Previous reports by SRK have
documented the same information for previous drill campaigns. Table 6.4.1 presents the number
of samples sent to each laboratory for the various drill campaigns.
Table 6.4.1: Laboratories used for Sample Preparation and Analysis
Company Year Laboratory Number Samples
AVG 2005 AVG 50
2007 SGS 88
2007-2008 SGS,MMX 307
2008 MMX 677
MMX
2009 SGS 522
2010 SGS 181
2010 BV 850
Total 1825



6.4.1 Sample Preparation
Samples arriving at Bureau Veritas from MMX vary in size and material. The sample is initially
checked for sample identification and preservation conditions upon receipt. The core sample
preparation process consists of:
Drying in a kiln at 105ºC until the sample is completely dry;
Crushing the whole sample until 95% of the sample passes through a 2mm sieve;
Reducing the volume by homogenization and quartering in a rotary splitter to reduce
sample to 300 to 600 g.
Pulverizing the split until 95% passes a 150 mesh sieve;
Quartering in a rotary splitter to a sampling weighing between 25 and 50g for analysis;
Archiving the remaining coarse reject and pulp; and
Record screening tests performed during sample crushing and grinding.
The RC samples are received at the laboratory as the 1m samples originally collected at the drill.
The sampling intervals, as noted by the geologist, are sent to the lab with the sample batch. The
sample preparation consists of the following steps:
Drying in a kiln at 105ºC until the sample is completely dry;
Jaw crushing until 100% of the sample passes through a 6.3mm sieve;
Compositing samples according to the sample interval plan; and
Splitting in a riffle splitter and dividing the sample into two halves, one for analysis and
one retained for additional metallurgical or other testwork.
6.4.2 Sample Analysis
At the Bureau Veritas laboratory, all samples are analyzed using the XRF technique. The typical
sample size is 2g and is analyzed for percentage of Fe, Al2O3, SiO2, P, Mn, TiO2, CaO, MgO,
K2O, Na2O and LOI.
The steps in the analytic procedure for LOI consist of:
Drying the sample in an oven at around 110ºC for at least one hour;
Weighing the empty container (CV);
Placing 1.5 to 2g of the dried sample in the container and weighing again (C+A);
Placing the container with the sample in a previously heated oven and waiting until the
temperature reaches 1000±50ºC and letting it calcine for more than 1 hour; and
Removing the container from the oven, resting it on the refractory plate until it loses
incandescence, and then put it in a closed dryer until the container and sample cool.
Weighing and record the final weight. LOI is calculated using the following formula:
(C A) (Final Weight)
%FW x100
(C A) (CV)



The detection limits are shown in Table 6.4.1.
Table 6.4.1: Bureau Veritas Detection Limits
Analysis Lower Detection Limit
Fe2O3 0.01%
SiO2 0.10%
Al2O3 0.10%
P2O5 0.01%
MnO 0.01%
TiO2 0.01%
CaO 0.01%
MgO 0.10%
Na2O 0.10%
K2O 0.01%

6.5 MMX Quality Controls and Quality Assurance
MMX has the following QA/QC program in place for its drilling programs:
The insertion of Certified Reference material samples (CRM’s);
Blind duplicates;
Assayed versus calculated global grade comparisons; and
Stoichiometric (chemical) closure calculations.
MMX has used acQuire at its properties as a database management tool since December 2007.
AcQuire includes QA/QC protocols within the sample numbering procedure. In the sampling
plan, the system inserts two different standards and one pulp duplicate for each 20 samples at
random positions. The standard batch size is 40 samples, with 34 primary samples, 2 pulp
duplicates and 4 company standards. For each 50 samples, one coarse duplicate is also inserted
into the batch at a random position, reducing the primary samples to 33. If the batch is less than
20, the system assures that at least two different standards and one pulp duplicate sample will be
inserted in each batch.
6.5.1 Comparison of Assayed and Calculated Global Grades
MMX calculates a global grade of iron and other elements by determining a weighted average
based on analysis of different sample of different grain size.
6.5.2 Stoichiometric Closure
MMX calculates stoichiometric closure for analysis at Bureau Veritas from Fe2O3, SiO2, Al2O3,
P2O5, MnO, TiO2, CaO, MgO, K2O, Na2O and LOI. This is basically a mass balance
calculations and stoichiometric closure is calculated by MMX using the following equation:
S.C.=1.4298*(Fe-
0.7773*FeO)+SiO2+Al2O3+2.2915*P+1.2912*Mn+TiO2+CaO+MgO+Na2O+K2O+(LOI+0.111
4*FeO)+FeO
Stoichiometric closure is considered acceptable if it falls between 98% and 102%.



6.5.3 Certified Reference Material
MMX has developed its own CRM’s from material at the Serra Azul Mine with the assistance of
Agoratek International and SGS. The three CRM’s are:
SAH – Serra Azul Hematite;
SACL – Serra Azul Canga Laterite; and
SAIC – Serra Azul Compact Itabirite (still in preparation).
MMX sent 20 of each samples to SGS in Belo Horizonte, Perth and Ontario, ALS Chemex in
Lima and Perth, Intertek, Genalysis, Bureau Veritas, Ultratrace, Amdel and ACTLabs for
analysis of Fe, P, SiO2, Al2O3, CaO, TiO2, MgO, K2O, Na2O, FeO and Mn. MMX then
performed various statistical tests on the results to arrive at the accepted mean and standard
deciation for each element or oxide.
6.6 Interpretation
The samples from Serra Azul are submitted with QA/QC samples, including standards and
duplicate samples with standard samples appropriate to the Project. MMX has developed new
standards from Serra Azul material. These samples have been sent to several laboratories in a
round robin to produce analyses used to calculate an expected mean and standard deviation.
QA/QC sample failures are handled appropriately and are reviewed and investigated to
determine the reason for the error. The sampling preparation and analyses follow industry
guidelines and the results from the QA/QC samples indicate that the analyses are suitable for a
resource database.



7 Data Verification
7.1 Quality Control Measures and Procedures
MMX directly imports data received from the laboratories into its database. SRK has compared
assay certificates of 20% of the database and found no errors. The laboratory QA/QC measures
are described in the proceeding section.
MMX is monitoring core recovery and is eliminating intervals with low recovery from the
resource estimation database.
MMX personnel check topographic updates to be sure that data is correct and check drillhole
collars against topography.
7.2 Limitations
The limitations to the QA/QC program are described in the preceding section.
SRK considers the data to be suitably verified and fit for resource estimation.



8 Mineral Resources Estimate
This section provides details in terms of key assumptions, parameters and methods used to
estimate the mineral resources together with SRK’s opinion as to their merits and possible
limitations. The resource estimation for the Serra Azul Mine was prepared by Mr. Elvis Vargas
under the direction of Ms Lilian Grabellos, Manager of Resources and Reserves. MMX uses
Mintec’s MineSight software for resource estimation and mine planning. Leah Mach, Principal
Resource Consultant with SRK, audited the resource.
8.1 Drillhole Database
The drillhole sample database was compiled by MMX and verified by SRK and is determined to
be of high quality and suitable for resource estimation. The database consists of assays for 214
holes drilled by AVG, Minerminas, and MMX. The average depth is 88m and the total meterage
is 18,858m. About a third of the holes are vertical and the remainder were drilled at
approximately -70° to the north.
SRK received the drillhole database as five comma separated variable (csv) files consisting of:
Collar: Drillhole ID, easting, northing, elevation, and total depth;
Survey: Depth, azimuth, inclination;
Recovery: Advance from, to, length, recovered length, recovery percentage;
Geology: From, to, lithology and code from drill log, modeled lithology and code from
cross-sections; and
Assay: From, to, Fe, SiO2, Al2O3, P, Mn, LOI, TiO2, CaO, MgO, and FeO.
Table 8.1.2 contains basic statistics for the assay interval and metal variables of all analyzed
samples.
Table 8.1.2: Basic Statistics for Assays
Coefficient
1st 3rd Standard of
Variable Number Minimum Maximum Average Quartile Median Quartile Deviation Variation
Interval 2669 0.85 16.20 4.40 3.55 4.80 5.00 1.65 0.31
Fe 2669 2.86 68.20 40.55 32.67 38.70 49.85 12.80 .032
SiO2 2669 0.70 94.78 38.00 24.04 42.05 50.79 18.59 0.49
Al2O3 2669 0.02 29.32 1.92 0.31 0.94 2.52 2.76 1.44
P 2669 0.003 1.420 0.050 0.016 0.032 0.063 0.065 1.296
Mn 2650 0.002 21.53 0.16 0.001 0.01 0.03 0.86 5.41
LOI 2448 -1.95 13.95 1.34 0.10 0.57 1.86 1.91 1.43



8.2 Geology
Sixty-seven geologic cross-sections were constructed at intervals of 100 or 50m depending on
the drill spacing. Figure 8-1 is a drillhole location map with mining concessions and topography
as of September 2010. The following lithotypes were modeled in the cross-sections:
Stock pile;
Canga;
Friable Itabirite;
Friable Hematite;
Friable Carbonate Itabirite;
Compact Itabirite;
Compact Hematite;
Intrusive;
Quartzite;
Phyllite;
Breccia; and
Quartz Vein.
Figure 8-2 shows typical cross-sections through AVG and Minerminas.
The cross-sections were used to prepare horizontal sections at 10m spacing from elevation 955 to
1,365. The geology was coded into the block model based on the horizontal sections.
Grades were estimated for lithotypes Canga (CG), Friable Itabirite (IF), Friable Carbonate
Itabirite (IFCA), and Compact Itabirite (IC). Table 8.2.1 presents basic statistics for these
lithotypes.



Table 8.2.1: Basic Statistics of Metal Variables by Lithotypes used in Grade Estimation
Lithotype Statistic Fe SiO2 Al2O3 P Mn LOI
Average 55.90 8.48 5.40 0.154 0.02 5.59
Minimum 26.32 0.70 0.64 0.020 0.00 0.18
Maximum 66.40 59.97 22.81 0.760 0.19 13.08
CG
Median 59.54 5.20 3.36 0.124 0.02 4.60
St. Dev 9.92 10.40 5032 0.123 0.03 3.17
Count 119 119 119 119 117 115
Average 49.35 25.76 1.84 0.058 0.04 1.46
Minimum 13.85 0.70 0.04 0.005 0.00 0.00
Maximum 68.25 74.86 14.98 1.420 2.29 12.81
IF
Median 49.50 26.23 1.34 0.040 0.01 0.97
St. Dev 10.32 15.59 1.83 0.085 0.12 1.68
Count 1513 1513 1513 1513 1497 1345
Average 34.96 48.02 0.89 0.034 0.05 0.66
Minimum 2.86 3.18 0.02 0.002 0.00 0.00
Maximum 66.00 94.78 21.33 0.318 7.10 12.66
IC
Median 35.12 48.11 0.41 0.024 0.01 0.30
St. Dev 7.85 11.08 1.42 0.030 0.26 1.05
Count 2651 2651 2651 2651 2649 1755
Average 31.42 47.16 3.41 0.087 0.80 2.61
Minimum 6.53 4.40 0.07 0.005 0.00 0.04
Maximum 58.68 89.41 15.57 0.324 21.53 9.95
IFCA
Median 30.13 48.03 2.87 0.075 0.24 2.20
St. Dev 10.07 14.48 2.24 0.053 1.94 1.75
Count 560 560 560 560 560 556
Average 39.56 40 1.59 0.051 0.13 138
Minimum 2.86 0.70 0.02 0.002 0.00 0.00
Maximum 68.25 94.78 22.81 1.420 21.53 13.08
All
Median 37.75 43.45 0.81 0.035 0.01 0.69
St. Dev 11.70 17.29 2.11 0.063 0.73 1.82
Count 4843 4822 4822 4822 4802 3738

8.3 Compositing
The average length of the samples used in grade estimation is 2.23m with a range from 0.02 to
15m. MMX composited the samples on 5m intervals starting at the top of the drillhole with
breaks at the lithotype solid boundaries. The variables that were composited include Fe, SiO2,
Al2O3, P and Mn. Resulting composites with lengths less than 2.5m at the base of a lithotype
change were added to the previous composite, and samples greater than or equal to 2.5 were
maintained as such. Table 8.3.1 presents basic statistics of the composites used in grade
estimation.



Table 8.3.1: Composite Statistics
Lithotype Statistic Fe SiO2 Al2O3 P Mn LOI
Average 57.47 7.05 4.79 1.167 0.02 5.23
Minimum 26.32 0.74 0.91 0.020 0.00 0.18
Maximum 66.40 59.97 18.77 0.460 0.19 12.66
CG
Median 59.20 3.58 3.50 0.125 1.02 4.88
St. Dev 7.37 9.52 3.48 0.131 0.03 2.52
Count 84 84 84 84 82 82
Average 50.87 23.60 1.85 1.052 0.04 1.32
Minimum 13.85 0.74 0.05 0.005 0.00 0.00
Maximum 68.20 74.86 14.80 1.223 1.37 12.81
IF
Median 51.49 22.40 1.30 0.034 0.01 0.98
St. Dev 10.23 15.12 1.79 0.079 0.11 1.37
Count 811 811 811 811 800 749
Average 35.31 47.91 0.74 0.028 0.04 0.51
Minimum 4.34 3.18 0.02 0.002 0.00 0.00
Maximum 63.36 91.13 14.58 0.318 5.16 12.66
IC
Median 35.41 48.14 0.34 0.020 0.01 0.20
St. Dev .20 10.20 1.13 0.027 0.24 0.89
Count 1068 1068 1068 1068 1066 763
Average 33.20 44.19 3.59 0.086 0.78 2.66
Minimum 8.26 7.88 0.13 0.005 0.00 0.04
Maximum 57.10 85.16 13.80 0.270 15.50 9.36
IFCA
Median 33.18 45.12 2.98 0.075 0.17 2.30
St. Dev 9.25 13.71 2.45 0.051 1.83 1.87
Count 286 286 286 286 286 283
Average 41.46 37.19 1.65 1.049 0.14 1.36
Minimum 4.34 0.74 0.02 0.002 0.00 0.00
Maximum 68.20 91.13 18.77 1.223 15.50 12.81
All
Median 38.83 41.96 0.84 0.030 0.01 0.69
St. Dev 11.97 17.87 2.05 0.066 0.72 1.75
Count 2249 2249 2249 2249 2234 1877

8.4 Density
Prior to 2010, MMX conducted three programs of density measurements at the project. The
work was performed by Prominas under contract to MMX. The first program was done at
AVG, the second at Minerminas and third was done at both AVG and Minerminas. During the
2010 drill campaign, MMX has taken additional density measurements on the core samples. The
sand flask method was used for the friable lithotypes and the water displacement method for the
competent lithotypes. Average values were calculated with and without outlier values by
lithotype. The average values without outliers were used in the resource estimation. Table 8.4.1
presents the densities by lithotype.


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