Extinct Volcanoes: A Rich Source of Rare Earth Elements

Recent research from The Australian National University (ANU) and the University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences reveals that iron-rich magma found in extinct volcanoes may be abundant in rare earth elements. This discovery could pave the way for a new source of these valuable metals.

Rare earth elements are essential components in various technologies, including smartphones, flat-screen TVs, magnets, and electric vehicles. They also play a critical role in renewable energy technologies, which include wind turbines.

Dr. Michael Anenburg from ANU highlights that iron-rich magma, which solidified to form some extinct volcanoes, is significantly more effective at concentrating rare earth metals than the more commonly erupting magmas from active volcanoes. "We have never observed iron-rich magma erupt from an active volcano, although some extinct volcanoes, millions of years old, exhibited this unusual type of eruption," Dr. Anenburg states.

The implications of this study suggest that researchers may analyze various iron-rich extinct volcanoes around the world, like El Laco in Chile, for rare earth elements.

To explore this potential, the researchers managed to simulate volcanic eruptions in laboratory conditions. They sourced rocks resembling those from known iron-rich extinct volcanoes, placing them into a pressurized furnace and raising the temperature to extreme levels. This melting process allowed them to investigate the minerals present in the rocks.

Through this research method, they identified a considerable abundance of rare earth elements contained within the iron-rich volcanic rocks.

As global investments in renewable energy technologies grow, the demand for rare earth elements also increases significantly. Estimates suggest that the demand for these elements could rise fivefold by 2030.

Dr. Anenburg explains that "rare earth elements aren't truly rare. Their abundance is comparable to that of lead and copper. However, the process of extracting these metals from their mineral forms is complex and costly."

Currently, China possesses the largest deposits of rare earth elements in the world. In contrast, the largest deposit in Europe is located in Sweden. Australia also hosts a notable deposit at Mount Weld in Western Australia, along with additional resources near Dubbo and Alice Springs.

Dr. Anenburg mentions that Australia has the potential to emerge as a key player in the clean energy sector by leveraging its rich rare earth resources.

Earlier, SSP reported that scientists discover a fascinating third state of life beyond death.