In the quest for sustainable energy solutions, the demand for rare earth elements—vital components in technologies like electric vehicles and wind turbines—has surged dramatically.
Interestingly, the remnants of ancient volcanic activity may hold the key to meeting this demand. Recent research has illuminated how extinct volcanoes, such as the Toongi deposit in New South Wales, Australia, are rich in these essential minerals.
By studying the formation and composition of these geological structures, scientists are uncovering methods to locate and extract rare earth elements more efficiently, potentially revolutionizing the future of energy technology.