Technology for mining cobalt rich manganese crusts from seamounts

Abstract

A likely mining scenario for recovery of manganese crusts from 600-2400 meter water depths is described. Estimates for mining system performance are made, including such items as percent crust recovery, dilution with substrate, energy consumption and potential effluent properties. The designs proposed are based on a number of assumptions and utilize relatively standard mining technology. Further data requirements and developmnent work is identified which could lead to change in the proposed scenario. In particular, further data is needed on the microtopography of the sea bed and the nature of the crust/substrate interface in order to confidently predict recovery and dilution.