FAQs Archive

Q: E.2 Are there backup systems for critical functions?

Yes, a minimum of two vessels operate in the field, and while one is transiting to port, the other is servicing the robots. This inherently provides a level of redundancy if critical systems for one of the vessels take one ship out of operation. Additionally, parallel operations on each vessel are planned, with 36 launch and recovery systems on board each vessel and parallel materials handling equipment on each vessel, eliminating single points of failure.

Q: E.1 How is the payload secured and stabilized on the ship once off-loaded from the AUV?

Nodules are offloaded from the AUVs into storage onboard the vessel. The current economic models assume the use of bulk ore transport vessels. We continue to explore alternative novel methods, such as containerizing the nodules onboard the vessel. This method could eliminate vessel stability concerns related to liquefaction of the load. This also provides economic benefits, increasing the number of ports where the nodules can be transported.

Q: A.8 Is deep sea mining economically viable compared to low-cost land-based nickel production?

Yes, we estimate that our system will be 15x lower cost than the average nickel mine in 2024. See this blog post to learn more.

Q: A.7 Will selective deep-sea mining match the production rate of land mining?

Yes. The known reserves of Ni, Co, and Mn in the ocean are between 3x and 10x the known reserves on land. Our parallel fleet of underwater robots can collect substantial amounts of critical materials, and replication of a single project can increase productivity.

Q: C.12 Does approval require consensus?

No. EIS does not seek consensus among all parties, and the award of an environmental permit does not require a response to every public comment on every topic.

Q: C.11 Can a contractor do whatever they want if an environmental permit is awarded?

No. The permitting process involves setting a range of conditions. Permit conditions can include a range of measures, including additional studies, revised modeling, additional monitoring requirements, etc. Regular reporting and independent monitoring are also part of the checks and balances applied.

E.2 Are there backup systems for critical functions?

E.1 How is the payload secured and stabilized on the ship once off-loaded from the AUV?

A.8 Is deep sea mining economically viable compared to low-cost land-based nickel production?

A.7 Will selective deep-sea mining match the production rate of land mining?

C.12 Does approval require consensus?

C.11 Can a contractor do whatever they want if an environmental permit is awarded?

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E.2 Are there backup systems for critical functions?

E.1 How is the payload secured and stabilized on the ship once off-loaded from the AUV?

A.8 Is deep sea mining economically viable compared to low-cost land-based nickel production?

A.7 Will selective deep-sea mining match the production rate of land mining?

C.12 Does approval require consensus?

C.11 Can a contractor do whatever they want if an environmental permit is awarded?

Impossible Metals

STAY INFORMED

Connect with Us

Policies

STAY INFORMED

Connect with Us

Impossible Metals

Policies

Stay Informed