230 million tons of precious metals discovered at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean

According to The Cool Down newspaper on August 2, Japanese researchers found a precious metal mine with about 230 million tons of fist-sized manganese nodules. These nodules contain about 20% manganese and about 1% cobalt and nickel. All three of these metals are used in the production of lithium-ion batteries.

Manganese nodule samples found in waters off Minami-Torishima Island

The mineral resources were found on the seabed near Minami-Torishima Island, about 1,900 kilometers from Tokyo, according to researchers. A detailed survey of the site began in April 2023 and continued until early June this year.

Researchers used mining equipment and underwater remotely operated vehicles to conduct exploration at multiple sites at depths ranging from 5,200 to 5,700 m.

Researchers estimate that these mines, which cover an area of about 10,000 ^square meters, contain about 610,000 tons of cobalt and 740,000 tons of nickel. This is enough to meet Japan's cobalt consumption for 75 years and nickel for more than a decade.

The discovery of this precious metal mine could revolutionize Japan's electric vehicle industry as the country struggles to keep up with global demand.

Sharing with Nikkei Asia , Mr. Yasuhiro Kato, a professor at the University of Tokyo and a member of the research team, said that these nodules concentrate and provide quite good materials.

By utilizing domestic mineral resources, Japan can promote the creation of new industries and establish next-generation energy infrastructure, avoid dependence on other countries, and increase its competitiveness in the global market, Kato said.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/phat-hien-230-trieu-tan-kim-loai-quy-duoi-day-thai-binh-duong-185240802165806553.htm