In a groundbreaking achievement, exploration company TMC has successfully produced nickel sulphate exclusively from seafloor polymetallic nodules, a feat never before accomplished. The Nasdaq-listed company conducted the innovative process in collaboration with SGS Canada at its Lakefield, Ontario facility, marking a significant advancement in the field of extractive technology.
Utilizing samples of nickel/cobalt/copper matte produced by TMC in 2021, the extractive team at SGS processed high-grade nickel matte directly into nickel sulphate, bypassing the traditional step of producing nickel metal. The process also yielded fertiliser byproducts, addressing concerns regarding solid waste and tailings disposal.
Dr Jeffrey Donald, head of onshore development at TMC, hailed the milestone achievement, stating that the successful production of nickel sulphate from deep-seafloor nodules validates the company’s custom flowsheet configuration for processing these unique rocks into battery-grade products. Furthermore, TMC is now on track to produce cobalt sulfate from polymetallic nodules, potentially marking another world-first accomplishment.
With TMC’s NORI and TOML projects ranked among the largest undeveloped nickel reserves globally, the successful production of nickel sulphate highlights the growing importance of marine minerals in meeting the increasing demand for critical battery metals like nickel and cobalt. Analysts have warned that current domestic and allied sources may not be able to satisfy the burgeoning US demand for these essential metals, prompting a renewed focus on marine mineral exploration to bolster energy and national security.
In response to the strategic importance of marine mineral extraction, draft legislation has been introduced in the US House of Representatives, calling for support for seafloor nodule collection, processing, and refining. This legislative initiative underscores the growing recognition of the vital role that deep-sea exploration could play in ensuring a stable and secure supply of critical metals for the energy transition and beyond.
