FAQs Archive

Q: H.2 What should be the strategy for mineral processing of the nodules?

Impossible Metals plans to outsource the mineral processing of the nodules. We will pay a fee for each ton of nodules that are refined into high-purity nickel, cobalt, copper, manganese, and possibly rare earth elements. We see three phases: Create a strategic stockpile of nodules in the US to stimulate processing investments. Upgrade existing nickel processing facilities in friendly nations, such as Japan, Australia, and Canada, to process nodules. Efficiency is likely to be around 75%. Build bespoke nodule processing facilities in the US and friendly nations, such as Canada. Efficiency is likely to be around 95%.

Q: H.1 How do you process (refine) nodules into high-purity metals?

Mineral processing is the process of separating commercially valuable minerals from their ores. The first step is called comminution, which involves reducing solid materials from one average particle size to a smaller average particle size, typically through crushing or grinding. The next step is either Pyrometallurgy (the use of heat) or Hydrometallurgy (the use of acid) to separate the valuable metals from the ore. A novel technology using living bacteria to separate metals from ore is in development. One example is Viridian Biometals , which spun out of Impossible Metals. It has been demonstrated that existing pyrometallurgy and/or hydrometallurgy processes can be used to process nodules. Typically, existing mineral processing plants require modifications to extract multiple metals from the nodules.

Q: D.32 How long can the robots remain underwater to deal with weather and emergencies?

The duration that the AUV can remain on the seafloor is dependent on the amount of warning that it has, knowing that it will be remaining at the seafloor when it first enters the water. For example if the AUV has run a full mission and right as it is about to be pulled from the water needs to travel back to the seafloor due to a sudden situation that arises on the surface vessel, the AUV can remain at the seafloor for up to 42 hours before it will surface and communicate its location at the surface via satellite. If we have 4 hours of notice before the surface ship needs to leave the area, such as major weather events, all vehicles in the water will have entered the water knowing that they will be there for an extended period of time and can remain stationed at the seafloor for a total of 4 days. See also question D.18: How will the underwater robot respond to emergencies or system failures?

H.2 What should be the strategy for mineral processing of the nodules?

H.1 How do you process (refine) nodules into high-purity metals?

G.7 How do you compare on scaling with your competitors?

E.7 How many days a year do you expect to be collecting?

D.32 How long can the robots remain underwater to deal with weather and emergencies?

G.3 Who makes competing dredging tractor and riser systems?

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