Japan Discovers 230 Million Tons of Rare Mineral That’s Worth Billions

Japan has made a significant discovery that could reshape its economic and technological landscape. Researchers from the University of Tokyo and The Nippon Foundation have uncovered an extensive deposit of rare minerals on the seabed near Minami-Tori-shima island. This find includes around 230 million tons of valuable manganese nodules containing cobalt, nickel, and other essential elements.1 These minerals are crucial for the production of electric vehicle (EV) batteries, making the discovery potentially worth billions.

Details of the Discovery

The survey, conducted between April and June 2024, involved a detailed examination of over 100 seabed sites using remotely operated underwater vehicles. Researchers guided these probes to depths ranging from 5,200 to 5,700 meters, where they confirmed the presence of dense rare mineral nodules. These nodules are believed to have formed over millions of years as metals in the ocean attached themselves to fish bones and other materials on the seabed.

Composition and Significance

The analysis revealed that the rare mineral nodules are rich in cobalt and nickel, with an estimated 610,000 metric tons of cobalt and 740,000 metric tons of nickel. These quantities are equivalent to 75 years of Japan’s annual cobalt consumption and 11 years of its nickel needs.2 Additionally, the deposits contain significant amounts of copper and other valuable elements, further enhancing their economic potential.

 

 

CONTINUE READING…
Author: awestories24.com

Related Posts

SINGER MAKES IT CLEAR SHE IS “NOT MAKING MUSIC FOR WHITE PEOPLE”

In a recent interview with Vanity Fair, Lizzo emphatically refuted the notion that she creates music for a “white audience.” The 34-year-old musician, renowned for her diverse…

Ear infection

Ear infections are often associated with children, but did you know that they can also affect adults? In fact, 20% of adults still experience ear infections. Bacteria…

Mother Forced Son to Sell the Car He Inherited – He Buys It Back and Finds His Grandfather’s Hidden Secret

At the age of 17, I experienced the loss of my grandpa, a moment that remains vivid in my memory. I had just returned home from school…

Mother Forced Son to Sell the Car He Inherited – He Buys It Back and Finds His Grandfather’s Hidden Secret

At the age of 17, I experienced the loss of my grandpa, a moment that remains vivid in my memory. I had just returned home from school…

Middle Schooler Suspended When Principal Sees His Veterans Memorial

When an Ohio student arrived at middle school with his history project, the office immediately called him in. As soon as the principal took one look at…

Magot removal…

These types of videos have recently become popular on social networks, because they are considered relaxing videos.