China carries out in-depth investigation of Turkey’s largest rare earth deposit
Chinese researchers have mapped the complex geological evolution of Turkey’s Kizilcaoren deposit, offering fresh insights into the country’s most significant known rare earth reserve while dampening expectations over its commercial potential. Although the findings shed light on how rare earth elements accumulate in carbonatite-related formations, the researchers concluded that the site was…
Chinese researchers have completed an in-depth investigation of Turkey's Kizilcaoren deposit, a country's largest known rare earth reserve. While the findings provide new insights into rare earth element accumulation in carbonatite formations, the researchers concluded that the site is unlikely to become a major global alternative to existing producers.
Lead scientist Professor Yang Xiaoyong stated that the deposit's mineralisation is "small in scale" and "still far from reaching the large scale of rare earth deposits." The study, published in Acta Geologica Sinica, reveals the complex geological evolution of the deposit through a three-stage process: magma intrusion, magma evolution, and hydrothermal mineralisation.
Despite the discovery, Yang emphasized that Kizilcaoren's scale is modest compared to other notable rare earth deposits, such as China's Bayan Obo and Maoniuping, which hold billions of tonnes of rare earth-bearing reserves. The research highlights the significant geological and economic barriers nations face in diversifying their sources of critical minerals.
Written by urgent.news from Reuters Business via SCMP's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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