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Researchers reveal that magma from extinct volcanoes can concentrate rare earth elements essential for wind turbines, batteries and cell phones, with promising reserves in Brazil, Chile and Australia.
Have you ever imagined finding a gold mine hidden in an extinct volcano? Well, researchers have discovered that the magma of some of these volcanoes may contain valuable elements known as rare earths. These substances are crucial for technologies such as electric car batteries, wind turbines and even smartphones. The research reveals a huge potential for harnessing these natural resources in a more efficient and sustainable way.
But what exactly are these rare earths? Why have they caused such a stir in the industry?? Let's explore this discovery and the impact it may have in the future.
What are rare earths and why do they matter?
Rare earths are a group of 17 metals that are essential for the manufacture of modern technologies. Elements such as neodymium and terbium are present in products we use every day, such as TVs, cell phones and electric vehicles. Despite the name, they are not really “rare”. The difficulty lies in extracting them efficiently and sustainably.
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Today, China dominates the rare earths market, controlling most of the world’s production. This worries other countries that are looking to reduce their dependence on this supply chain. The discovery of new deposits in volcanic magmas could be a game changer.
The groundbreaking discovery of iron-rich magma
Researchers at the Australian National University have made a surprising discovery: magma from extinct volcanoes, especially those rich in iron, can contain up to 200 times more rare earth elements than ordinary magma. Using laboratory simulations of eruptions, the scientists identified bubbles of magmatic fluid that indicate high levels of elements such as lanthanum and cerium.
This opens the door to exploring ancient volcanoes as veritable underground vaults. A notable example is the El Laco volcano in Chile, which is already being studied to assess its potential.
Examples of promising volcanoes
In addition to Chile, countries such as Brazil and Australia also have promising deposits. Brazil, for example, holds the world's second largest reserve of rare earths, surpassed only by China. In Australia, extinct volcanoes have also shown signs of similar riches.
These locations could become strategic for sustainable mining, helping to diversify the supply chain and reduce pressure on current producing countries.
Challenges and opportunities in Extraction
Despite the good news, extracting rare earths is no easy task. Current technology is expensive and involves complex processes to separate the elements from solidified magma. There are environmental and geological concerns that need to be addressed before mining becomes viable.
An alternative would be to invest in technologies that reuse materials that have already been discarded, such as old electronics, reducing the need to open new mines.
The future of sustainable rare earth mining
If these discoveries are applied correctly, they could transform the global industry. Countries such as the United States and Sweden are already investing in research to ensure their economic independence in the production of rare earths.
Demand for these elements is expected to grow fivefold in the coming years, driven by green technologies. Harnessing the potential of extinct volcanoes could be key to meeting this demand sustainably.
Discovering that extinct volcanoes can be veritable rare earth mines is like finding a lost treasure. This research not only expands our possibilities sustainable mining, but also challenges the dominance of large players in the market.
