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.
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Author: awestories24.com