Deep-ocean mineral deposits: metal resources and windows into earth processes

Lusty, Paul A.J.; Murton, Bramley ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1522-1191. 2018 Deep-ocean mineral deposits: metal resources and windows into earth processes. Elements, 14 (5). 301-306. 10.2138/gselements.14.5.301

Before downloading, please read NORA policies.

Preview

Text (Open Access Paper) gselements-14-5-301.pdf - Published Version Available under License Creative Commons Attribution 4.0. Download (4MB) | Preview

Abstract/Summary

Deep-ocean mineral deposits could make a significant contribution to future raw material supply. Growing metal demand and geopolitics are focussing increasing attention on their resource potential and economic importance. However, accurate assessment of the total amounts of metal and its recoverability are very difficult. Deep-ocean mineral deposits also provide valuable windows through which to study the Earth, including the evolution of seawater and insights into the exchange of heat and chemicals between the crust and the oceans. Exploration for, and potential extraction of, deep-ocean mineral deposits poses many geological, technical, environmental and economic challenges, as well as regulatory and philosophical questions. Great uncertainty exists, and the development and stewardship of these deposits requires an incremental approach, encouraging transparency and scientific and civil societal input to balance the interests of all.

Item Type:	Publication - Article
Digital Object Identifier (DOI):	10.2138/gselements.14.5.301
NORA Subject Terms:	Earth Sciences
Date made live:	09 Oct 2018 10:35 +0 (UTC)
URI:	https://nora.nerc.ac.uk/id/eprint/521131

Actions (login required)

View Item

Document Downloads

More statistics for this item...