A newly discovered ore containing vast quantities of an element widely used in semiconductors has been found in China. The discovery could propel new advances in battery technology.
Geologists have found the rare earth metal niobium inside the new ore named niobobaotite from north China’s Inner Mongolia. The rare earth metal is widely used in alloys for jet engines and rockets and has also been shown to have exceptional current conducting properties in low temperatures.
Researchers have said batteries made from niobium have several advantages over traditional lithium-ion batteries. The Brazilian Metallurgy and Mining Company (CBMM) has been working on new projects towards the use of niobium to make advanced lithium-ion batteries.
Source: The Independent (via MSN): Read The Article
PSR Analysis: China currently sources most of its niobium from Canada and if geologists can prove that sufficient volume and of the correct quality can be extracted from niobobaotite, experts said it could help make China “self-sufficient”, reported the South China Morning Post newspaper. Researchers believe that niobium-graphene batteries can last 10 times longer than traditional lithium-ion batteries, thus making them last for an estimated 30 years and make them more durable and reliable, as well. PSR
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