Beyond Oil: The Rise of Critical Metals

• Mining the Seabed: Potential Impacts on Critical Mineral Supply Chains and Global Geopolitics

  Episode Description:Welcome to another episode of Beyond Oil: The Rise of Critical Metals. Join us as Tom LaTourrette and Fabian Villalobos from RAND Corporation review their report on seabed mining, covering the drivers, study design focused on nodule extraction, and potential implications, especially concerning battery metal demand and China's supply chain dominance. They also discuss seabed mining's potential supply, barriers compared to terrestrial mining, impact on terrestrial mining income for some countries, geopolitical workshop findings, the US government's limited influence in the ISA, and implications of the recent US executive order, culminating in recommendations for the US government. Guests:* Tom LaTourrette, Senior Physical Scientist at RAND, with expertise in energy, infrastructure, and public safety.* Fabian Villalobos, Senior Researcher at the RAND Corporation, focused on US-China techno-economic competition, supply chains, the defense industrial base, and emerging technologies.Host:* Oliver Gunasekara, CEO & Co-Founder of Impossible MetalsEpisode Timeline:* Introduction to Seabed Mining (0:00 – 03:40)* Study Design (03:40 – 07:55)* Demand for Battery Metals and China's Dominance (07:55 – 10:31)* Seabed Mining's Potential Supply and Barriers (10:31 – 19:11)* Impact on Terrestrial Mining Income (19:11 – 21:47)* Geopolitical Implications Workshop (21:47 – 30:57)* US Government's Limited Influence in ISA (30:57 – 32:27)* Potential Implications of the Executive Order (32:27 – 36:26)* Recommendations for the US Government (36:26 – 42:18)* Q&A Session (42.18 - 1:08:06)Key Takeaways:* Introduction to RAND’s Seabed Mining Study: The RAND Corporation has been studying seabed mining and geopolitical implications, focusing on polymetallic nodule extraction and processing.* Growing Demand for Critical Minerals: There's a projected surge in demand for battery metals like nickel and cobalt by 2040, driven by the energy transition.* China's Dominance in Supply Chains: China currently holds a significant lead in the global supply chains for critical minerals, from mining to processing.* Seabed Mining as a Supply Diversifier: Seabed mining could offer an alternative supply source for critical minerals, potentially reducing reliance on terrestrial mining and diversifying supply chains.* Challenges and Uncertainties of Seabed Mining: The industry faces hurdles such as high infrastructure costs, regulatory complexities, public perception issues, and the need for new processing technologies for nodules.* Potential Negative Impact on Terrestrial Mining Economies: Case studies suggest seabed mining could reduce income for nations like the DRC (Democratic Republic of the Congo) due to declining cobalt prices outweighing potential ISA royalty payments.* Geopolitical Complexities and International Governance: The emergence of a seabed mining industry introduces potential geopolitical tensions, requiring careful diplomatic engagement and monitoring of international institutions like the International Seabed Authority (ISA).* US Government's Role and Recommendations: The US government, despite not being an ISA member, needs to strategically engage with allies, clarify policies, and invest in research and mapping to navigate the evolving landscape of seabed mining.Links/Resources MentionedRand research paper overviewImpossible Metals website This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit impossiblemetals.substack.com

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  1:08:14
• Deep Dive into the Updated Techno-Economic Model

  Episode DescriptionIn this episode, we take a deep dive into the newly released Version 6 of Impossible Metals’ Techno-Economic Model. Jason Gillham, Co-founder and CTO/COO, walks through how the selective harvesting system for deep-sea mining is engineered for scalability, sustainability, and economic efficiency. Learn how Version 6 compares to earlier models, the assumptions behind the data, and what it means for the future of critical mineral supply and green energy infrastructure.Guest* Jason Gillham – CTO/COO & Co-founderModerator* Holly Nielsen🕒 Episode Timeline* Intro & Welcome (0:00 – 1:00)* Overview of V6 Economic Model (1:00 – 3:00)* System Design & Environmental Considerations (3:00 – 5:00)* Economic Objectives & System Scalability (5:00 – 6:00)* Global Demand & Economic Comparison Metrics (6:00 – 8:30)* Structure of the Techno-Economic Model (8:30 – 11:30)* Eureka 3 vs. Eureka 4 Fleet Comparison (11:30 – 13:00)* Alternative Cost Comparisons (13:00 – 16:30)* Representative Project Assumptions (16:30 – 18:30)* Financial Projections & NPV Outlook (18:30 – 20:00)* Wrap-Up & Q&A Prompt (20:00 – end)📌 Key Takeaways* Impossible Metals’ V6 model presents a scalable and sustainable alternative for deep-sea mineral harvesting.* Selective harvesting using fleets of AUVs significantly reduces habitat disturbance while improving operational efficiency.📥 Resources & Links* Blog with presentation. Links to the model are on page 4 of the presentation.* Learn more at impossiblemetals.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit impossiblemetals.substack.com

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  46:25
• Guest Post: "The Elements of Deep Sea Mining" Podcast Episode with Eric Young & Oliver Gunasekara

  Welcome to another episode of Beyond Oil: The Rise of Critical Metals. Today, we're sharing this episode of The Elements of Deep Sea Mining, which features host Eric Young and Impossible Metals CEO and co-founder Oliver Gunasekara discussing how Impossible Metals designed its nodule mining technology from scratch to mitigate harm and avoid costs.Find it on Spotify (https://lnkd.in/dU_kkhFB), Substack (https://lnkd.in/du-2wkCj), Apple (https://lnkd.in/df8D-aQX) YouTube (https://lnkd.in/dtpwunxC) or wherever you get your podcastsThis episode & its supporting content below is shared with permission.Oliver’s team is bringing in AI, robotics, and a totally new approach that could reduce environmental impact, minimize sediment plumes, and skip a lot of the heavy infrastructure.In this conversation, Oliver Gunasekara discusses the innovative system developed by Impossible Metals aimed at addressing the environmental challenges associated with deep sea nodule mining.Oliver emphasizes the importance of modern technology in reducing the ecological impact of mining operations while ensuring the extraction of critical minerals necessary for the energy transition. The discussion also covers the regulatory landscape, the controversies surrounding deep sea mining, and the need for transparency and trust in the industry.Check out their 3D Animation of the system (90 seconds video):🔗 Resources & Links:* Impossible Metals:https://www.impossiblemetals.com* FAQ : https://impossiblemetals.com/frequently-asked-questions/faqs-environmental-and-social-responsibility-for-deep-sea-mining/* · Follow LinkedIn page for updates: https://www.linkedin.com/company/impossible-metals/* Oliver Gunasekara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gunasekara/* · Blog: https://impossiblemetals.com/blog/why-will-deep-sea-mining-be-less-expensive-than-traditional-land-based-mining/* · Blog: How the Environmental Impact Assessment is a Keystone of Decision-Making in Deep-Sea Mining* · Impossible Metals new Podcast: Beyond Oil: The rise of critical minerals* · Register for Webinar: Deep Dive into the Updated Techno Economic Model on Friday, March 21, 8:00 am PDT (11 am EDT)Timestamps00:00 – Introduction: Rethinking Deep Sea Mining01:20 – Oliver’s Background and Path to Deep Sea Mining03:09 – Why Deep Sea Mining? A Climate-Driven Pivot05:43 – Environmental Impact Starts with Technology07:28 – Designing from First Principles10:38 – The Core Architecture of Impossible Metals14:16 – The Buoyancy Engine: A New Kind of Mobility18:16 – Smart Launch and Recovery Explained20:34 – Operating in Rough Seas: More Days, Better Economics23:14 – Designing for Reduced Environmental Harm31:05 – Business Model: Partner or Operator?33:22 – Development Timeline and Readiness Level36:40 – Speed, Scale, and Collection Economics41:27 – Why the Cost Advantage is So Large46:34 – Processing Nodules: Can Existing Infrastructure Adapt?47:14 – Public Perception and Pushback50:31 – Moratorium vs Ban: Clarifying the Debate53:49 – Trade-Offs and Trust in Environmental Decision-Making57:30 – The Role of Trust and Transparency1:01:46 – Why the Spotlight on Deep Sea Mining Now?1:07:11 – Recycling, Substitution, and Demand Realities1:11:31 – Ethical Access, Global Equity, and the Climate Crisis1:13:06 – Competitors and the Long Game1:14:32 – Final Thoughts and Where to Learn MoreTheme music Tamarack by Jesse Matas This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit impossiblemetals.substack.com

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  1:15:19
• On-shore Processing of Seabed Minerals

  Episode Description:Welcome to another episode of Beyond Oil: The Rise of Critical Metals. Today, we're exploring the fascinating realm of seabed minerals and the complexities of onshore processing. Join us as we host Niels Verbaan, Technical Services Director at SGS, who shares his expertise on the various flowsheets, the importance of risk management, and the journey towards sustainable extraction of these valuable resources.Guest:* Niels Verbaan, Technical Services Director at SGSHost: * Oliver Gunasekara, CEO & Co-Founder of Impossible MetalsEpisode Timeline:* Introduction & Welcome (0:00 – 5:00)* Background on Seabed Mineral Processing (5:00 – 10:00)* Overview of Processing Flow Sheets (10:00 – 20:00)* Challenges & Economic Considerations (20:00 – 30:00)* Risk Factors & Pilot Testing (30:00 – 40:00)* Material Handling & Operational Challenges (40:00 – 50:00)* McNulty Ramp-Up Curves & Case Studies (50:00 – 1:05:00)* Sustainability & Environmental Impact (1:05:00 – 1:15:00)* Q&A Session (1:15:00 – 1:55:00)* Closing Remarks & Next Steps (1:55:00 – End)Key Takeaways:* Nodule Composition and Processing Challenges: Niels explains the unique composition of CCZ nodules, the challenges in physical upgrading, and the need for hydrometallurgical processes.* Overview of Processing Options: The discussion covers various chemical approaches including ammonia, chlorides, and nitrates, with a focus on smelting acid leaching (TMC), reductive acid leaching (GSR), and the cuprous ammonium leach (CUPRION) process.* In-Depth Analysis of High-Pressure Acid Leaching (HPAL): Niels delves into the potential of HPAL as a mature technology for nodule processing, highlighting its benefits and addressing concerns around plant location and waste product management.* The Critical Role of Piloting and Risk Management: The discussion emphasizes the importance of pilot plants in derisking projects, understanding material handling, and ensuring operational robustness.* Analysis of Ramp-Up Curves: Niels presents a compelling analysis of ramp-up curves for various critical mineral projects, highlighting the challenges and the significance of thorough preparation and piloting.* Sustainable Considerations: The discussion touches on the sustainability aspects of nodule processing compared to traditional mining, and Impossible Metals' commitment to net-zero operations.Resources:* SGS websiteContact:* Niels Verbaan: [email protected] This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit impossiblemetals.substack.com

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  1:06:25
• Unlocking Scalable Seafloor Data with Orpheus Ocean

  Episode Description:Join us as we dive into the ocean's depths with Jake Russell, CEO of Orpheus Ocean. In this episode, we explore Orpheus Ocean's innovative approach to deep ocean exploration using autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). Discover how Orpheus is changing the game for seabed surveys, environmental assessments, and mineral exploration.Guest:* Jake Russell, CEO of Orpheus OceanHost:* Oliver GunasekaraEpisode Timeline:* 00:00:00 - Introduction* 00:05:00 - Jake Russell introduces Orpheus Ocean* 00:10:00 - Orpheus Ocean's mission and team* 00:15:00 - The Orpheus AUV* 00:20:00 - Orpheus AUV's capabilities* 00:25:00 - Comparing Orpheus AUVs to ROVs* 00:30:00 - Q&A* 00:55:00 - Closing remarksKey Takeaways:* Orpheus Ocean is developing autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) for deep ocean exploration.* The Orpheus AUV is designed for flexibility, agility, and cost-effectiveness.* Orpheus AUVs can be used for seabed surveys, environmental assessments, and mineral exploration.* Orpheus Ocean offers a "robotics as a service" model.Resources:* Orpheus Ocean websiteContact:* Jake Russell: [email protected] This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit impossiblemetals.substack.com

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  38:50

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