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Volcanoes are not only destructive forces of nature, but also underground vaults of essential minerals. Scientists have discovered that ancient volcanoes may indicate where to find rare earths, metals essential for the production of electronics, electric vehicles and renewable energy technologies.
In Australia, about 400 kilometers from Sydney, there is an incredible place called the Toongi Deposit. This place, which appeared about 215 million years ago, holds a true underground treasure: rare earths. And why is this so important? Well, these minerals are in practically everything we use in our daily lives, from solar panels to cell phones and electric cars.
With demand for these minerals exploding, scientists are increasingly focused on understanding how these deposits form. And the answer may lie in the crystals left behind by volcanoes.
The role of volcanoes in the formation of Rare Earths
It all starts down there, in the Earth's mantle. When this layer, rich in iron and magnesium, partially melts, it releases valuable minerals. This magma, loaded with rare earths, slowly rises towards the crust.
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In the middle of this path, it cools and forms new minerals, separating from the remaining liquid. With this, the magma that continues your journey becomes even richer in rare earths, a true geological feast for modern technology.
According to Agueda Region, not every volcano can produce profitable rare earth deposits. The secret lies in the type of cooling and the composition of the magma. A famous example of this is the Gardar Igneous Complex in Greenland, known for its high levels of these precious minerals. The same happened in Australia, where the Toongi Deposit was formed thanks to the same geological process.
But hey, finding viable mining sites isn't easy. Magmas rich in rare earths are quite rare, and those with concentrations high enough to be worth mining are even harder to find.
Crystals as messengers of the geological past
Now, how do scientists figure these things out? The answer lies in crystals, specifically clinopyroxene. This mineral acts as a geological “black box,” recording the events that have taken place inside the Earth.
At the Toongi Deposit, researchers found clinopyroxene crystals with a curious hourglass shape. This indicates that they formed very quickly, due to the release of gases during the cooling of the magma.
This balcony It is very important because it helps to differentiate common rocks from those with high levels of rare earths. By comparing crystals from different volcanoes, scientists can identify patterns and predict where new deposits may be hidden.
The future of mining and green energy
If there’s one thing that’s certain, it’s that the transition to renewable energy requires rare earths. And by better understanding how these deposits form, we can exploit these resources more efficiently and even sustainably.
If we can diversify mining locations, we can prevent a few countries from controlling the global supply of these minerals. This not only helps balance the market, but also ensures that we have enough rare earths to continue technological innovation. without fear of scarcity.
We are Fenrir do Brasil, we have a high-grade deposit in Brazilian soil. Average grade of 14.9%