Chinese geologists have unearthed two new minerals at the world’s largest rare-earth mine, the Bayan Obo deposit in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. The discovery marks a significant milestone in China’s exploration of strategically important minerals.
The two minerals, named Oboniobite and Scandio-fluoro-eckermannite, were identified through a collaboration among the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) Institute of Geology and Geophysics, Inner Mongolia Baotou Steel Union Co., Ltd., Baotou Research Institute of Rare Earths, and Central South University. The International Mineralogical Association has officially recognized these minerals and approved their names.
“These new minerals hold valuable elements with significant applications in emerging technologies,” said Li Xianhua, a CAS academician. “Their discovery is of great importance to fields such as new materials, energy, information technology, aerospace, national defense, and military industry, bolstering the nation’s economic and social development.”
Oboniobite is characterized by its yellow-brown to brown color and plate-like structure, with particle sizes ranging from 20 to 100 micrometers. Scandio-fluoro-eckermannite, the first scandium-containing mineral discovered in China, is pale yellow or light blue and exhibits a columnar structure with particles up to 350 micrometers in size. It is named in honor of CAS academician Zhai Mingguo for his outstanding contributions to mineral deposit studies in China.
Niobium and scandium, the primary elements in these minerals, are rare and strategically critical metals. Niobium is essential in producing special steels, superconducting materials, and aerospace components, while scandium is crucial for aluminum-scandium alloys and solid oxide fuel cells.
“Bayan Obo is rich in diverse mineral resources, including iron, niobium, scandium, thorium, and fluorite,” said Li Xiao, general manager of Inner Mongolia Baotou Steel Union Co., Ltd., a major Chinese steelmaker. “Since 1959, twenty new minerals have been discovered here, reflecting the region’s immense geological significance.”
This discovery underscores China’s commitment to advancing mineral exploration and developing resources critical for technological innovation and industrial growth. These findings may pave the way for new applications and industries, further solidifying China’s role in the global rare-earth market.
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China unearths two new minerals at world's largest rare-earth mine
cgtn.com
