New geomodels to explore deeper for High-Technology critical raw materials in Alkaline rocks and Carbonatites

Challenge the practice is addressing: This practice addresses the supply concern of raw materials in the EU as most of them are imported. This project created new geomodels which might become industry standards for exploration, they improved the state of the art geophysics and published work on geological characteristics in exploration.

Concrete practice to achieve the expected goal: To achieve the expected goal, the project had to develop new techniques and protocols to apply on small, complex deposits, resulting already in new contracts for the industry partners, include process mineralogy, environmental and social aspects in work on the geomodels and increase research on economic aspects of carbonatites and alkaline rocks and encourage publication of commercial exploration results. Furthermore, it was needed to enhance European expertise and knowledge and to give Europe global reach to help secure supply chains for specialist commodities.

Expected impact/goal of the practice: The expected impact of this practice is to provide key information about perceptions of mineral exploration in Europe. Furthermore, to increase the exploration science which will have a lasting effect in improved exploration and development of mines for the raw materials required for decarbonisation to combat climate change. To reach a wider audience an open online course on a platform called FutureLearn has been set up with over 1453 participants so far.

Who is the target user group of the practice/intervention or implementing the practice/intervention? This practice is relevant for both industry and public policy.