Japan has discovered 230 million tonnes of manganese-rich nodules near Minami-Torishima, offering significant potential for its EV industry. These seabed deposits, containing manganese, cobalt, and nickel, could meet Japan’s cobalt needs for 75 years and provide over a decade’s supply of nickel, boosting domestic EV battery production.
These seabed treasures, found at depths of 5,200 to 5,700 meters, hold significant potential for Japan’s burgeoning EV industry. The nodules, containing about 20% manganese and up to 1% cobalt and nickel, are estimated to meet Japan’s cobalt consumption needs for 75 years and provide over a decade’s supply of nickel. The discovery boasts roughly 610,000 tonnes of cobalt and 740,000 tonnes of nickel spread across 10,000 square meters.
Unearthing the Treasure
The journey to this discovery began in 2016, with detailed surveys intensifying from April to June 2024. Utilizing advanced mining equipment and remotely controlled underwater vehicles, researchers meticulously probed the seabed, uncovering these rich mineral deposits. The nodules are believed to form from iron and manganese oxides precipitating around nuclei in seawater, and they also contain valuable copper.
A Boost for Japan’s EV Industry
This groundbreaking find promises to propel Japan’s EV industry by reducing its dependency on foreign resources. With these deposits, Japan could not only satisfy its internal demand for EV batteries but also challenge China in the global market. The consortium led by the non-profit Nippon Foundation and the University of Tokyo aims to extract 2,500 tonnes of these minerals daily in an experimental project by March 2026, moving towards commercial production the same year.
A Vision for the Future
Yasuhiro Kato, a professor at the University of Tokyo, underscores the significance of this discovery for Japan’s future. He envisions creating new industries and next-generation energy infrastructure by leveraging these domestic seafloor mineral resources. The research team plans to collaborate with other companies to develop eco-friendly products and technologies, transforming Japan into a science-technology- and ocean-oriented nation.
Ultimately, this discovery is expected to establish a robust domestic supply chain from resource mining to manufacturing, significantly boosting Japan’s growth and positioning it as a leader in the global EV market.
Source interestingengineering.com
