Metal resources, use and criticality

This first chapter of Critical Metals Handbook begins with definitions of certain key concepts and terminology relating to minerals and metals that will provide a foundation for the subsequent chapters. We are using minerals and metals in greater quantities than ever before. The main reasons for these changes are increased global population and the spread of prosperity across the world. In the light of these trends, it has become important to ask if we can continue to provide the minerals required to meet this demand, and also to question whether our resources will ultimately be exhausted. It is increasingly apparent that materials that have been incorporated into products no longer in use (secondary materials, scrap) can provide a valuable supplement to virgin stocks. Modern technology makes extensive use of the metals designated as critical by the various criticality assessments discussed in the chapter.