Mineral Resource Potential Research Articles

Diversity of critical minerals deposits in the North American Cordilleran alkaline-igneous belt in southern Colorado, New Mexico, Texas, and Mexico

Critical minerals are nonfuel mineral commodities that are essential to the economic and national security of the United States and many other countries, mostly imported into the U.S., and are from a supply chain that is vulnerable to global and national disruption. A renewed interest in critical minerals in the U.S. and the world has become the focus of research in understanding ore formation, mineral-resource potential, and ore production of these important mineral deposits. Alkaline igneous rocks, including carbonatites, are known for their associated critical minerals deposits. The North American Cordilleran alkaline-igneous belt is one such area known for gold, molybdenum, rare earth elements (REE), and critical minerals deposits associated with Eocene-Miocene (45.6 to 22.8 Ma) alkaline igneous rocks and carbonatites. The belt extends southward from Alaska and British Columbia into New Mexico and eastern Mexico. Gold, molybdenum, and critical minerals such as REE, tellurium, fluorine, zirconium, and niobium have been found and locally exploited along this belt. In New Mexico (the focus of this paper), the belt extends southward from the Sangre de Cristo Mountains to the Cornudas Mountains, in the northern Trans-Pecos alkaline belt. The mineral deposits in the North American Cordilleran alkaline-igneous belt are controlled by composition and source of alkaline magmas, regional and local structures, and development of multiple hydrothermal systems during the transition from Laramide compression (75-40 Ma) to Rio Grande rift extension (28-5 Ma). Three predominant types of mineral deposits are found in the North American Cordilleran alkaline-igneous belt: (1) alkalic-type epithermal gold, (2) Climax-type porphyry molybdenum, and (3) magmatic REE deposits (including veins and breccia deposits in adjacent host rocks); a fourth deposit type, small alkalic porphyry copper-gold deposits, are found in a few districts. Many of the mineral deposits in this belt formed at or after peak activity of a local magmatic cycle. Magmas and sulfur were derived from melting of the lower crust to upper mantle (as indicated by isotopic data from several deposits) resulting in the diversity of mineral deposits in the southern North American Cordilleran alkaline-igneous belt. Most of the magmatic REE deposits occurred during the transitional period (40-28 Ma), whereas the Climax-type porphyry molybdenum deposits occurred mostly at the beginning of rifting (25-24 Ma). The alkali epithermal gold and small alkalic porphyry deposits occurred at the end of the Laramide orogeny and during the transitional period before rifting. Most alkalic-type epithermal gold deposits in New Mexico are found in hydrothermal breccia pipes and skarns with anomalous, but uneconomic concentrations of REE and tellurium. Alkalic-type epithermal and alkalic porphyry copper-gold deposits in New Mexico are found in the Ortiz Mountains in Santa Fe County (Carache Canyon, Lucas Canyon). Many districts in the belt have future critical minerals potential. Tellurium is found at Cripple Creek, Colorado and Organ Mountains, New Mexico. Tungsten was locally produced in the past from two of these gold deposits (Elizabethtown and White Oaks) and is found in the Ortiz Mountains deposits. The Climax-type molybdenum deposits, including the Questa deposit, contain anomalous, but uneconomic concentrations of beryllium and fluorite. The magmatic REE deposits in Laughlin Peak, Gallinas, Capitan, and Cornudas Mountains, New Mexico generally contain anomalous, but uneconomic concentrations of zircon, niobium, fluorite, and gold, and generally low tellurium, tungsten, and beryllium concentrations. The magmatic REE deposits in the Gallinas Mountains are among the highest ranked deposits for economic potential for REE in New Mexico; some samples contain as much as 8% total REE. Some samples in the Cornudas Mountains contain as much as 3110 ppm total REE, mostly in eudialyte. A mineral concentrate of the REE-bearing minerals (eudialyte, zircon, monazite, bastnäsite, calcio-catapleiite, vitusite, roumaite, xenotime) could be obtained after mining by magnetic separation and REE could be leached from that concentrate.

Inheritance recharge of subsurface brine constrains on formation of K-bearing sand-gravel brine in the alluvial fan zone of mountain-basin system on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau

The deep brines enriched in potassium (K), lithium (Li), boron (B) resource elements in sedimentary basins are valuable potential mineral resources. There is a widely accepted consensus that evaporite and brine resources were formed in terminal salt lakes, however, newly discovered sand-gravel brine (SGB) occurred in the piedmont alluvial fan zone on the northern Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau (QTP). Currently, there is a key scientific issue on where does the solute of SGB in the alluvial fan zone come from? The existing understanding is that the solute of high Na+, Cl− originates from halite dissolution by meteoric water, but lack of isotope geochemical linkage between brine and evaporite. The Mahai Basin (MHB) on the northern QTP is a natural experimental site for the study on the above unsolved problems, due to harboring similar brine reservoir, small geographical area, thin evaporite layers and various waters in this basin. This study presents detailed analysis of H-O-Cl-Li isotopic compositions and hydrogeochemical parameters for intercrystalline brine, SGB and halite from drilling cores in the MHB. The results reveal several key findings: (1) the SGB in the piedmont alluvial fan zone of Altyn Tagh and Saishiteng Mountains presents similar geochemical characteristics of low TDS, high Na+, Cl− and relatively high K+ contents (1.12–3.65 g/L in MHB), which established new occurrence model of brine resource in the ‘Fan-Lake’ system. (2) The δD (−56.90 ‰∼−17.60 ‰) and δ18O (−5.70 ‰∼6.00 ‰) values of SGB in the MHB are higher, the isotopic disparity exists in these two mountain-fan-lake systems, but they are meteoric origin and accord with their respective hydrologic circulation process. (3) The CNa/CCl molar ratio (∼0.80), δ37Cl (−0.26 ‰∼+0.25 ‰) and δ7Li values (+33.84 ‰∼+43.82 ‰) of SGB are comparable with those of intercrystalline brine in the MHB, indicating that inheritance recharge of salt lake brine for the formation of SGB in this basin. (4) The metallogenic model of SGB in the MHB is multi-condition constraints (northward migration of depocenter, hydrological lateral recharge of river water along the alluvial fault zone and strata subsidence along with the mountain uplift), which develops the topographic difference between brine aquifers of salt lake and alluvial fan zone resulting into subsurface brines recharge for the alluvial-pluvial fan reservoir.

Prediction of embodied GHG emissions of building materials in Shanghai

The construction sector stands as a fundamental component of urban development, providing indispensable spaces and infrastructure critical to societal demands. However, the consumption of considerable building materials engenders a significant environmental footprint, mainly from the exploitation, manufacturing, and processing. Characterizing the dynamic changes in a city’s future building development and material demand is crucial for achieving the goal of carbon neutrality. As an international metropolis, Shanghai faces challenges, including limited land and resources, high population density, and rapid building renewal rates. Understanding building renewal patterns and developing potential urban mineral resources will help alleviate resource shortages, achieve sustainable use of building materials, and meet carbon reduction goals. Taking Shanghai as a case study, this research applies material flow analysis alongside the carbon emission factor method to forecast the consumption of building materials and the associated embodied carbon emissions within the city. The study meticulously quantifies the evolving patterns of building material consumption and embodied carbon emissions from 2023 to 2060. The results indicate that Shanghai's civil building stock area will undergo incremental growth, attaining a pinnacle in 2030 before embarking downward. In contrast, the scope of new construction and demolition within the urban fabric will follow an ascending trend throughout the same period. Regarding material consumption, gravel, cement, and bricks are identified as the predominant components, accounting for 58%, 18%, and 15% of the total material inflow, respectively. Embodied carbon emissions from Shanghai’s civil buildings are anticipated to rise steadily, mirroring the pattern of material consumption. Notably, emissions from residential buildings are expected to experience a slight decline from 2023 to 2028, ultimately reaching 5.43 Million metric tons (Mt) in 2060. The insights garnered from this research are instrumental in deepening the comprehension of urban development dynamics and the intricacies of resource management.

The quest for a sustainable industry: mining, path dependency and post-carbon regime in the European Arctic

AbstractThe goal of the European Union’s Green Deal industrial plan is to achieve an ecological transition over the next three decades. This transition includes the electrification of energy and transport systems. Achieving such a transformation requires access to critical raw materials for the technologies that will enable the post-carbon transition of European societies. In this context, the European Arctic (also referred to as the Barents region) is seen as a key asset that can contribute to the EU’s green plan, in particular due to its high potential for mineral resources. Since the 19th century, Europe’s northernmost regions have developed a long tradition of mining activities (e.g., Swedish iron ore, which has been mined by LKAB). Fennoscandia’s mineral potential opens up new prospects for the industry. However, fundamental challenges lie ahead, such as the impact of climate change, pollution management, and social acceptability. Although the Nordic countries have based the economic development of their northern regions on sustainable principles, the concept of sustainable mining and its operational implementation have their shortcomings, such as sustained land use conflicts with the Sámi people. In addition, the possibility of missing some key governance linkages may lead to new path dependencies due to a lack of a systemic vision. Once these issues are addressed, the Nordic mining industry could spearhead this defining process for Europe’s ecological transition.

Electrified Solar Zero Liquid Discharge: Exploring the Potential of PV-ZLD in the US.

Current brine management strategies are based on the disposal of brine in nearby aquifers, representing a loss in potential water and mineral resources. Zero liquid discharge (ZLD) is a possible strategy to reduce brine rejection while increasing the resource recovery from desalination plants. However, ZLD substantially increases the energy consumption and carbon footprint of a desalination plant. The predominant strategy to reduce the energy consumption and carbon footprint of ZLD is through the use of a hybrid desalination technology that integrates renewable energy. Here, we built a computational thermodynamic model of the most mature electrified hybrid technology for ZLD powered by photovoltaic (PV). We examine the potential size and cost of ZLD plants in the US. This work explores the variables (geospatial and design) that most influence the levelized cost of water and the second law efficiency. There is a negative correlation between minimizing the LCOW and maximizing the second-law. And maximizing the second-law, the states that more brine produces, Texas is the location where the studied system achieves the lowest LCOW and high second-law efficiency, while California is the state where the studied system is less favorable. A multiobjective optimization study assesses the impact of considering a carbon tax in the cost of produced water and determines the best potential size for the studied plant.

Nundorite: a geological oddity of critical minerals significance from the Mount Arrowsmith Volcanics, northwestern NSW

Nundorite is a unique and enigmatic rock type, known only from its type locality within the Koonenberry Belt of western NSW. The rock is highly anomalous in geochemical composition being peralkaline, with low silica and high alumina, but enriched in rare metals such as Zr, Nb and rare earth elements. This study presents a comprehensive mineralogical and geochemical study of nundorite to resolve its origins and its potential to inform on the geological processes that lead to critical metal concentration in the crust. Nundorite is found only at a single outcrop but shows a progression of alteration and deformation over ∼250 m from the northwest to southeast. The least deformed varieties consist of coarse aegirine grains within a matrix composed predominantly of natrolite and microcline with minor albite, nepheline and schizolite. With increasing deformation, the proportion of albite and aegirine decreases, the primary zeolite changes from natrolite to analcime, and the pyroxene and schizolite shift towards the aegirine and serandite (Mn-rich) endmember compositions, respectively. These transitions can be related to progressive hydration and recrystallisation of the rock in response to hydrothermal alteration associated with deformation. Nundorite also contains a diverse suite of accessory rare metal phases such as zircon, monazite, cerite-group minerals, fergusonite, fersmite, natroniobite, galgenbergite, epidote–allanite and a range of Zr alkali silicate minerals. Samarium–Nd isotopic compositions of nundorite (εNd ∼+5.5 at 585 Ma) are comparable with mafic volcanic rocks of the surrounding Mount Arrowsmith Volcanics and are consistent with derivation from a mantle source. These data, together with the uniform peralkaline composition, depletion in Ti and P, and enrichment in incompatible elements, are consistent with an origin as highly fractionated phonolite. Phonolites of similar composition are rare but have been reported from continental rift and intraplate alkaline provinces worldwide. Nundorite, therefore is not just a geological oddity, but also provides reaffirmation of the continental rift setting for the Mount Arrowsmith Volcanics and highlights the critical mineral resource potential of the region, as extensive crystal fractionation is a key mechanism to produce ore grade levels of rare metals in alkaline magmatic systems.

Potential mineral resources and multi-component use of natural and technogenic tungsten deposits of the Dzhida ore field
 (city of Zakamensk, Republic of Buryatia)

The article provides an overview of published and deposited data on the geological structure, mineral and chemical composition of ores, and the ore processing technologies for the Barun-Naryn and other technogenic deposits formed during long-term exploitation of natural molybdenum and tungsten deposits of the Dzhida ore field. Based on statistical analysis of these data and on author’s laboratory analytical studies, the mineral potential of the natural and technogenic deposits of the region was appro- ximately quantitatively assessed for a wide complex of by-product components of the ores. Modern possibilities of multi-element processing of the technogenic raw materials accumulated in this area and outlook for solving the actual problems in the future are demonstrated

Geological setting, lead-zinc mineralization characteristics and its potential prospects in the Na Bop - Pu Sap area, Cho Don, Northeastern Vietnam

The Lo Gam structural zone is recognized as a crucial area for the occurrence of lead-zinc deposits in Northeast Vietnam, encompassing the distinguished territories of Cho Dien and Cho Don. Specifically, within the Cho Don area, the Na Bop-Pu Sap area emerges as particularly noteworthy owing to the considerable scale and quality of its lead-zinc ore deposits. In order to comprehensively investigate the geological attributes and lead-zinc mineralization phenomena prevalent in Na Bop-Pu Sap, a suite of analytical techniques including petrographic analyses, mineralogical examinations, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and ICP-MS were employed. Furthermore, stable isotope investigations and single mineral sphalerite analyses were conducted to assess the origin of metal constituents and the physicochemical conditions conducive to ore genesis. The Na Bop-Pu Sap area is under the influence of the NW-SE fault system, with the ore structure predominantly manifesting as bands and veins aligned parallel to the foliations of hosted rock. This configuration suggests a close association between the formation of lead-zinc ore and the foliation processes occurring within the shear zones. The assemblage of ore minerals within the region primarily comprises galena, sphalerite, pyrite, pyrrhotite, and arsenopyrite. Integration of S and Pb isotopic analyses alongside single mineral sphalerite assessments reveals that the ore-forming solutions emanate from both magmatic activity and sedimentary sources, with lead-zinc ore deposition occurring at temperatures ranging from low to medium. Projections suggest that the Na Bop-Pu Sap mining area may exhibit relative degrees of erosion extending to depths of approximately 600 meters below the existing terrain surface. This comprehensive examination of the ore characteristics in the Na Bop-Pu Sap mine area yields invaluable insights, thereby advancing our understanding of the potential for deep-seated lead-zinc mineral resources within the Northeastern Vietnam.

Interaksi Tektonik Konvergen Dan Pola Struktur Di Pulau Atauro, Timor-Leste

This study examines convergent tectonic interactions and structural patterns on Atauro Island, Timor-Leste. Atauro Island is located near the convergence zone of the Australian and Eurasian plates within the tectonic framework of the Sunda Arc. The interaction between these plates has shaped a variety of geological features, including folded mountains, rising faults, and plateaus. In addition, these tectonic interactions are also significant in their influence on mineralization patterns on Atauro Island, involving various forms of mineralization such as precious and base metal deposits, hydrothermal systems, and related volcanic events. The research provides important insights into the tectonic history and evolution of the area. The methods used in this study involve a number of steps and approaches to collect data, analyze geological phenomena, and understand the geological processes that occur. The results, important about the types of rocks present on Atauro Island, include andesite igneous rocks and volcanic intermediate igneous rocks. Overall, this study provides a deeper understanding of the geological processes that occur on Atauro Island due to convergent tectonic interactions, as well as the potential mineral resources contained on the island.

Unveiling the mineral resources and structural patterns in the Middle Benue Trough: a comprehensive exploration using airborne magnetic and radiometric data

The Middle Benue Trough (MBT) in Northcentral Nigeria is a geologically significant area with vast mineral resource potential. Employing airborne magnetic and radiometric data, this study utilized the Centre for Exploration Targeting on enhanced total magnetic intensity data to reveal geologic structures, lithological units and mineralization zones. Lineaments predominantly trended in NE-SW direction, with noteworthy orientations in NNE-SSW and E-W. Radiometric anomalies correlated with distinct lithological units, pinpointing granitic gneiss, alluvium, shale, siltstone and sandstone. A magnetically concentrated and potassium-rich area indicated potential polymetallic-magnetic mineralization. The 2D model illustrated igneous intrusions influencing prevalent geologic structures, such as sediment baking and doming. Thorough analysis, including source parameter imaging, standard Euler deconvolution and 2D forward modelling, revealed sediment thicknesses below 1500 m. This research enhances understanding of the MBT’s geological features, offering valuable insights for mineral exploration and resource assessment in the region.

Soil Survey and Lithogeochemical Techniques in Mineral Exploration

This paper investigates the critical roles of soil surveys and lithologic evaluation in identifying potential mineral resources. Soil surveys involve the systematic mapping, examination, description, and classification of soils within a defined area. Through targeted sampling and laboratory analysis, these surveys can reveal the concentration of metals in the soil. By analyzing these metal signatures, geoscientists can infer the underlying geology and identify areas with a higher likelihood of hosting valuable mineral deposits. Lithologic evaluation complements soil surveys by focusing on the physical characteristics of rock units exposed at outcrops, in hand samples, or cores. Observable with the naked eye or a magnifying lens, these characteristics include color, texture, and structural features. Lithogeochemistry, or rock geochemistry, builds upon this foundation by analyzing the chemical composition of the bedrock. This analysis aims to identify spatial patterns of elements typically associated with specific types of mineral deposits. By integrating the findings from soil surveys and lithologic evaluations, geoscientists gain a comprehensive understanding of the subsurface environment, enabling them to prioritize areas for further mineral exploration activities. This paper delves into the fundamentals of these techniques, highlighting their strengths and limitations in the context of mineral resource exploration.

Geologi Daerah Buyat Dan Sekitarnya, Kecamatan Kotabunan, Kabupaten Bolaang Mongondow Timur, Provinsi Sulawesi Utara

This research focuses on the eastern part of the northern arm of Sulawesi to understand the geological conditions, including geomorphology, lithology, stratigraphy, and geological structure. The goal is to determine the geological history and map the geological conditions to identify potential mineral resources. The research methods include a qualitative approach through field observations such as morphology, outcrop descriptions, lithology, geological structure measurements, stratigraphic relationships, as well as an inventory of natural resources and geological disaster risks. The quantitative approach involves calculations and analyses, including geomorphological analysis, petrography, paleontology, geological structure, stratigraphy, and the reconstruction of geological history. The research results identify four geomorphological units (karst, denudational, volcanic, alluvial) and six geological units at the research site. Andesite and volcanic breccia are the oldest units dating back to the Miocene. At the end of the Miocene, uplift and subsidence formed intrusive hills of diorite and limestone. Volcanic activity ceased in the Miocene. In the Pliocene, sandstone formed due to river transport. The rock formation process continues to the present, with alluvial deposit units resulting from the breakdown of rocks around the lake. Geological structure analysis reveals fault lines with the main stress direction from northwest to southeast. Relative fault data indicates fault inclination values suggesting the main stress direction is northwest-southeast. The geological history in the research area began in the Miocene with magmatism and tectonic activities, forming andesite and volcanic breccia units. This history extends to the formation of alluvial deposit units in the present. The research provides in-depth insights into the geological history and potential mineral resources in the region, serving as a foundation for further research.

Analysis of Disaster Vulnerability Areas in West Bandung Regency, West Java, Indonesia

Mineral resources, coal, and rock are one of the potentials possessed by Indonesia to be able to earn income from the mining sector. West Bandung Regency is one of the areas that have quite a lot of potential rock and mineral resources. The potential of this area is quite large, namely andesite rock, sand, limestone, and sandstone. Zeolite and others. On the other hand, the West Bandung area has a high potential and threat of being a disaster-prone. West Bandung Regency has the highest number of natural disasters occurring in the type of landslide disaster, which occurred 52 times in the period 2008-2016, or 68% of all disasters. Loss of economic value also occurs for mining material resources which are limited by the existence of a disaster zone. So it is necessary to carry out mitigation from the start to map disaster areas that have an impact on the distribution and existence of mining material resources. This study aims to identify and analyze the potential of rock resources in disaster-prone areas, so as to be able to prioritize conservation aspects for potential mining materials. The method used in this research is through literature study, mapping the potential of mining materials, mapping the potential of disaster-prone areas, processing of secondary data, and analysis using remote sensing. The results of this study are that the rocks in the West Bandung area are divided into groups of volcanic rocks, sedimentary rocks, and alluvial deposits. The volcanic rock group got a score of 3 because it was considered more prone to erosions than the sedimentary and alluvial rock groups which were scored 2 and 1. with a weighted level of disaster vulnerability. The zone of high disaster susceptibility is considered to have the highest probability of a disaster occurring. Therefore, in the final result, the overlap between the distribution of the potential for minerals and the zone of high disaster susceptibility results in a potential area for minerals that are relatively safe from disasters, both soil movement, and flooding. Potential mining resources in West Bandung Regency are Andesite basalt 1,860,412 ha (1.43%), Limestone 667.05 ha (0.50%), Sirtu 40,949.76 ha (31.35%%).

Precise Determination of Eu Concentration in Coal and Sedimentary Rock Samples Using High-Resolution Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (HR-ICP-MS)

Europium (Eu) in coal and sedimentary rocks has important mineral resource potential as well as being a crucial parameter in geochemical studies that can represent changes in the depositional environment during coal deposition and identify the depositional source region. Therefore, it is essential to realize the precise measurement of Eu in coal as this could be a useful parameter for paleoenvironmental reconstruction studies and the exploration of mineral resources. During inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) analysis, polyatomic ions of Ba may interfere with Eu, causing the observed value to be higher than the actual value. This paper develops a new approach for Eu determination by using a high-resolution inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (HR-ICP-MS). The mass spectral interference and correction of Eu in the coal and sedimentary rock samples at low, medium, and high resolutions were investigated. The results showed that in the high-resolution mode (resolution = 10,000 amu), the interference of polyatomic ions of Ba could be distinguished from Eu; hence, Eu was determined under this circumstance. Under the optimal experimental circumstances, the detection limit was 0.006 μg/mL, the relative standard deviation was 0.80%–1.22%, and the linear correlation coefficient of the standard curve was over 0.9999. The recoveries of the 103Rh internal standard solution ranged from 94.41% to 100.10%. This method was verified using standard reference materials and selected samples, which demonstrated its high sensitivity, accuracy, and reliability, and a low detection limit, making it appropriate for detecting Eu in samples of coal and sedimentary rocks.

Enrichment Characteristics and Mechanisms of Critical Metals in Marine Fe-Mn Crusts and Nodules: A Review

Marine Co-rich ferromanganese crusts and polymetallic nodules, which are widely distributed in oceanic environments, are salient potential mineral resources that are enriched with many critical metals. Many investigations have achieved essential progress and findings regarding critical metal enrichment in Fe-Mn crusts and nodules. This study systematically reviews the research findings of previous investigations and elaborates in detail on the enrichment characteristics, enrichment processes and mechanisms and the influencing factors of the critical metals enriched in Fe-Mn crusts and nodules. The influencing factors of critical metal enrichments in Fe-Mn crusts and nodules mainly include the growth rate, water depth, post-depositional phosphatization and structural uptake of adsorbents. The major enrichment pathways of critical metals in marine Fe-Mn (oxy)hydroxides are primarily as follows: direct substitution on the surface of δ-MnO2 for Ni, Cu, Zn and Li; oxidative substitution on the δ-MnO2 surface for Co, Ce and Tl; partition between Mn and Fe phases through surface complexation according to electro-species attractiveness for REY (except for Ce), Cd, Mo, W and V; combined Mn-Fe phases enrichment for seawater anionic Te, Pt, As and Sb, whose low-valence species are mostly oxidatively enriched on δ-MnO2, in addition to electro-chemical adsorption onto FeOOH, while high-valence species are likely structurally incorporated by amorphous FeOOH; and dominant sorption and incorporation by amorphous FeOOH for Ti and Se. The coordination preferences of critical metals in the layered and tunneled Mn oxides are primarily as follows: metal incorporations in the layer/tunnel-wall for Co, Ni and Cu; triple-corner-sharing configurations above the structural vacancy for Co, Ni, Cu, Zn and Tl; double-corner-sharing configurations for As, Sb, Mo, W, V and Te; edge-sharing configurations at the layer rims for corner-sharing metals when they are less competitive in taking up the corner-sharing position or under less oxidizing conditions when the metals are less feasible for reactions with layer vacancy; and hydrated interlayer or tunnel-center sorption for Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd, Tl and Li. The major ore-forming elements (e.g., Co, Ni, Cu and Zn), rare earth elements and yttrium, platinum-group elements, dispersed elements (e.g., Te, Tl, Se and Cd) and other enriched critical metals (e.g., Li, Ti and Mo) in polymetallic nodules and Co-rich Fe-Mn crusts of different geneses have unique and varied enrichment characteristics, metal occurrence states, enrichment processes and enrichment mechanisms. This review helps to deepen the understanding of the geochemical behaviors of critical metals in oceanic environments, and it also bears significance for understanding the extreme enrichment and mineralization of deep-sea critical metals.

Review of till geochemistry and indicator mineral methods for mineral exploration in glaciated terrain

Since the 1970s, till geochemical and indicator mineral methods for mineral exploration, provenance studies and environmental research in glaciated terrain have been developed, tested and refined. This review summarizes these methods, focusing on field and laboratory methods for till geochemical, indicator mineral and boulder surveys. This review of protocols is intended as a guide for the mineral exploration industry and publicly funded agencies. It summarizes till as a sample medium, and describes the formation of glacial dispersal trains, along with methods for till sample collection, sample processing, matrix geochemistry, indicator mineral analyses, quality assurance/quality control procedures and data reporting and interpretation. The methods described here can be used to conduct reconnaissance- to deposit-scale till sampling surveys to assess mineral resource potential and establish environmental baselines. Supplementary material: Appendix A – Photographs of till types described in text; Appendix B – Logistical and geological factors to consider in till sample survey design; Appendix C – Photographs of glaciate terrain types described in text; and Appendix D – Till sample processing and analysis flow charts are available at https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.6786087 Thematic collection: This article is part of the Reviews in Exploration Geochemistry collection available at: https://www.lyellcollection.org/topic/collections/reviews-in-exploration-geochemistry

MINERAL POTENTIAL OF STRATEGICAL AND CRITICAL MINERAL RAW MATERIALS FOR DEVELOPMENT OF HIGH TECHNOLOGICAL INDUSTRY OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION

The paper briefly describes the state system of regional geological study of the subsoil, implemented by Rosnedra and VSEGEI, which provides an assessment of the country's mineral resource potential for strategic types of minerals. In 2022, VSEGEI completed the compilation of a set of digital monometal maps of distribution patterns and prediction of strategic and critical types of minerals in the Russian Federation at a scale of 1:2.5 M in GIS format. Reserves of these types of minerals were assessed based on the state accounting system, and an expert reassessment of inferred resources was carried out. As a result, regional predictive criteria concerning the localization of areas promising for the discovery of mineral deposits were developed. Recommendations were given on the organization of additional site appraisal-200/2 and (or) geological and mineragenic mapping-200 on specific nomenclature sheets, promising for exploration for strategic types of minerals

Mineral resources of the Gandaki Province of Nepal: present status and prospect

Mineral resources serve as the foundation of prosperity for any country or community. However, the process of prospecting and exploring these resources is time-consuming and involves financial risks. It requires the combined expertise of both geoscientists and mining engineers, encompassing academic knowledge and professional skills. In this research, we provide an overview of the mineral resources within the Gandaki province of Nepal and evaluate their present status. The main objective is to examine the current status and potential of mineral resources in the province. To achieve this, we extensively utilize available reports, journal articles, and online sources. We gather both primary and secondary data on mineralization. Additionally, we systematically list the potential locations of all documented mineral resources within the Gandaki province, along with their GPS coordinates. Based on the current geological and mineralogical investigations, as well as our understanding of the province’s mineral resources, we identify ten minerals or mineral groups with potential economic value: iron, copper, uranium, tourmaline, syenite, thermal springs, limestone, dolomite, slate, and meta-basic rocks like amphibolite. We strive to provide geological evidence and context for supporting the presence of these minerals.
 In general, iron mineralization is observed as sedimentary deposits, exhibiting a syngenetic nature. Many copper ores are hydrothermally deposited originating from the underlying meta-basic rocks like amphibolite. The region is also known for its abundance of gemstones, including quartz crystals, garnet, kyanite, and tourmaline. These minerals are concentrated in the vicinity of the Main Central Thrust zone and its surrounding areas. Moreover, the province has significant potential for high-quality dimension stones for flooring, roofing, and pavements such as quartzite, slate, phyllite, schist, granite, and gneisses. Additionally, there are ample opportunities for the extraction of construction materials like sand and gravel from the river terraces and natural rock outcrops. Nevertheless, a systematic study focused on prospecting, exploration, and utilization of these potential and possible mineral resources is imperative for an accurate economic evaluation. To achieve this, the provincial government must develop plans and policies to facilitate the development of its own mineral resources. Furthermore, establishing strong collaboration between professionals and academia is crucial to make well-informed investments in the mineral sector. Considering the present status of minerals, the Gandaki province of Nepal holds promising prospects for harnessing its mineral resources for sustainable development.

POTENTIAL OF METAL MINERAL RESOURCES IN MOUNT GOGOREA WAHLUA FORMATION BURU ISLAND

Geologically, Buru Island is composed of quite varied rocks, both in the form of sedimentary rock, igneous rock and metamorphic rock produced by subduction and magmatism and sedimentation activities. This is why Buru Island has quite a variety of potential metal and non-metallic mineral resources. The Wahlua Formation is the most widely distributed rock formation on Buru Island, but until now the petrographic, geochemical characteristics, and potential geological and mineral resources in this formation have not been studied in detail. The aims of this study were (1) to obtain data on the petrographic and geochemical characteristics of the rocks at Mount Gogorea, and (2) to determine the potential of metal minerals at the Gogorea location. The research was carried out at 4 observation points and 4 rock sampling points. Identification of petrographic and mineral characteristics was carried out megascopically and microscopically. Rock geochemical data were obtained using the AAS and ICP OES methods. The main rocks that make up the Geology of Mount Gogorea in the Wahlua formation are light-colored quartzite, granuloblastic texture, and non-foliated structure, various colored schist (reddish-brown-fawn and dark gray), lepidoblastic texture, foliated-schistose structure with mica as constituent minerals, phyllite greenish-gray, brownish to light in color, crystalloblastic texture with a smooth surface, and foliated-phyllitic structure, minerals making up mica, quartz, chlorite, and dark gneic rocks (greenish gray, dark gray, dark green), granoblastic texture and foliated-gneissic structure, with minerals in quartz, mica and hornblende rocks. The levels of precious metal Au were 16.7 ppm and 16.4 ppm, Hg was 2.49 ppm, As was 17 ppm while the highest base metal content was Mn at 925 ppm. Potential metal minerals at the Mount Gogorea location include precious metals (Au, Hg and As) and base metals such as manganese, zinc, barium, lead, copper and nickel. The presence of Au elements in rocks is associated with the levels of other elements, namely Ba, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, La, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sr, and Zn.

Another Look at Marine Minerals

Abstract Deep-sea mining is taking another step closer to reality. Early leases for exploration in the central Pacific manganese nodule fields and elsewhere in the oceans are coming to an end, and contractors are faced with a choice—extend the licenses to continue exploration or apply to mine the deposits they have found. The first 15-year licenses were originally signed into effect by the International Seabed Authority (ISA) in 2001 and began to expire in 2016. With no operations in a position to commence mining and, more importantly, no regulations in place to allow it, most exploration licenses were simply renewed. Eight of the original licenses were extended for five more years, some twice, and new licenses have been granted. Today, there are 31 contracts for exploration: 19 for manganese nodules, 7 for sea-floor massive sulfides, and 5 for Co-rich crusts. The first contract for massive sulfide exploration expires in 2026; the first for Co-rich crusts expires in 2029. Meanwhile, there is strong interest from a number of countries in the mineral resource potential of their exclusive economic zones (EEZs), particularly Japan and Norway. Against this backdrop of rapidly shifting exploration activity, it may be time to take another look at marine minerals as a resource for the future. In a report entitled “The Future of the Ocean Economy by 2030,” the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) asked, “What new developments could result in a complete revision of offshore mineral potential?” For most parts of the oceans, the answer to this question is plagued by inadequate mapping and a lack of geologic knowledge as a basis for assessing the resources. However, new approaches to exploration are emerging, and recent discoveries, such as on the continental shelf and beneath the cover of sediment, are changing our view of the resource potential.