Context
Despite concerns over deep-sea biodiversity, countries continue to explore mining of polymetallic nodules. A new study reports a more efficient and cleaner extraction process for metals found in these nodules.
What Are Polymetallic Nodules?
- Potato-sized deposits found on deep ocean floors.
- Rich in nickel, cobalt, copper, manganese — critical for batteries, electronics, and clean-energy technologies.
New Extraction Technique
Hydrogen-Based Smelting Process
- Researchers developed a single-step smelting method that:
- Melts the nodules
- Uses hydrogen instead of carbon to remove oxygen from metal oxides
- Produces a mixed alloy rich in nickel, copper, and cobalt
- Generates manganese-rich byproducts usable in battery production
Advantages
- Significant reduction in CO₂ emissions compared to conventional carbon-based extraction.
- More energy-efficient and environmentally cleaner.
- Converts a greater share of metal content into usable form.
IAS-2026 - OPTIONAL / GEOGRAPHY / PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION / SOCIOLOGY / ANTHROPOLOGY / ORIENTATION ON 03 & 04-10-2025 
