Carbonatites are the primary host rocks for deposits of rare earth elements (REE) and niobium (Nb), which are key components in electric motor and generator magnets, and in and high-strength and specialty alloys. This session explores the geological controls on the location, metal content and mineralogy of carbonatites. The feature presentation provides an overview of the geodynamic settings and exploration concepts relevant to the discovery of REE and Nb carbonatites. A series of case studies including active mines, exploration projects and applied research focus on factors driving the discovery and development of metal resources critical for the green energy transition.
Chair(s):
Wouter Bleeker, Geological Survey of Canada, Ottawa &
Volker Moeller, SLR Consulting, Toronto, Canada