Japan has discovered a massive mineral deposit near Minami-Torishima Island, containing approximately 230 million tons of manganese, 610,000 tons of cobalt, and 740,000 tons of nickel.
According to researchers, the mineral resources located on the seabed near Minami-Torishima Island are sufficient to meet Japan’s cobalt consumption needs for 75 years and to supply nickel for over a decade, as reported by Interesting Engineering on June 26. The manganese ore, estimated at around 230 million tons, is found in large nodules about the size of a fist. These nodules contain approximately 20% manganese, 1% cobalt, and nickel. Manganese, cobalt, and nickel are essential components in lithium-ion batteries, making them vital for boosting electric vehicle production.
Nodule specimen near Minami-Torishima Island. (Photo: Nippon/Jiji).
Researchers estimate that the metal deposit spans an area of approximately 10,000 m2 and contains about 610,000 tons of cobalt and 740,000 tons of nickel. The mineral-rich area around Minami-Torishima Island in Japan has been under observation since 2016. However, a recent detailed survey in the region began in April of last year and is expected to last until early June 2024. The survey results reveal the existence of a massive ore deposit in the area.
The research team used mining equipment and remotely operated underwater vehicles to explore multiple points on the seabed at depths of 5,200 to 5,700 meters. According to them, nodules of this type form when iron and manganese oxides dissolve in seawater and precipitate around a nucleus. The ore deposit also contains copper, another valuable element.
The discovery of this new mineral resource will help advance Japan’s electric vehicle industry by reducing dependence on other countries, allowing for the domestic supply of electric vehicle batteries and enhancing competition with China in the international market.
The research team, which includes the non-profit Nippon Association and the University of Tokyo, plans to start extracting 2,500 tons of minerals per day in a pilot project by the end of March 2026. Additionally, the Nippon Association aims to establish a joint venture to commercialize production in Japan by 2026.
According to the research team, the mineral deposit is commercially viable, considering the costs of extraction and refining. The nodules have a high metal content and provide quality materials, as noted by Yasuhiro Kato, a professor at the University of Tokyo. The researchers intend to collaborate with various companies to develop environmentally friendly products and technologies by leveraging the mineral resources around the island, located approximately 1,900 kilometers from Tokyo.
