Case study: Finding hidden value in the North West Minerals Province
In collaboration with the Sustainable Minerals Institute at the University of Queensland, the Geological Survey of Queensland (GSQ) has re-analysed samples from mine tailings (i.e. waste material, often stored in dams) at established and historic mine sites throughout Queensland to identify critical mineral opportunities. Of particular interest are cobalt concentrations in tailings of substantial copper mines in the North West Minerals Province.
Critical minerals are expected to be a fundamental resource needed to support the global energy transition, particularly for the manufacture of renewable energy components and batteries.