Entry requirements

90 credits in technology or natural sciences (physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics, earth sciences, computer science, material science), including 15 credits mathematics or physics and 10 credits chemistry.

Learning outcomes

After completion of the course, the student should be able to:

• describe the background of the concept of critical metals and minerals, and their selection as such within an EU perspective
• describe the most important critical metal minerals, key metallogenetic processes responsible for the formation of deposits of critical metals and minerals, and their geological context
• evaluate geological constraints on global critical metal and mineral supply responses
• explain the demand and applications for these metals, and motivate their exploration and mining in a European context

Content

This course provides an overview of the principles of classification and assessment of critical metals and minerals and their application globally, and specifically within the EU. The “Peak metal” concept will feature. The supply of critical metals and minerals will be discussed. The mineralogy of critical metals, the metallogenetic context of present and near-future deposit types for critical metals and minerals, as well as deposit classification and distribution, will be covered. Problems surroinding substitution and recycling potential will be discussed.

Individual student projects are focused on certain types of critical metal and mineral deposits, their character and origin, and include evaluating their present and future potential.

Instruction

Lectures, individual project work, seminars, practicals, literature studies.

Assessment

Written and oral presentations of an individual project (2 credits), active participation/feedback during seminars (1 credit), and a home-exam (2 credits).