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Project Code [2020-sc-036]
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Project title
Energy Critical Element Characterisation of Irish Mineral Deposits
Primary Funding Agency
Geological Survey Of Ireland (GSI)
Co-Funding Organisation(s)
n/a
Lead Organisation
BRG Ltd
Project Abstract
The Green Agenda and decarbonisation of the energy supply means that specialist metals will be
required to facilitate the transformation. Energy critical elements such as, Indium, Gallium and
Germanium, currently play a major role in photovoltaic cell production and subsequent utilisation of
solar energy. The bulk of the world�s supply comes from China and the EU is concerned about
security of supply, it is evaluating the potential to source these metals within its own borders.
Ireland is a world renown base metal province, with large, high grade, Zn / Pb deposits. �Irish Type�
deposits are a variant of Mississippi Valley Type deposits but differ in that they have been deposited
from a higher temperature hydrothermal fluid. Accordingly, many Irish deposits have an exotic and
unusual trace element signature, including the elevated copper and nickel found at Lisheen / Galmoy
and high concentrations of germanium in a satellite zone near the Pallas Green deposit.
Irelands recent mining history has been focused on the exploitation of conventional metals (Zn, Pb,
Cu and Ag) from its mining operations. The potential of minor or exotic metals was not a priority.
However, given that Indium, Gallium and Germanium are produced as a by-product of zinc mining it
is time to assess/evaluate how much Ireland might have and where it is located
Grant Approved
�30,000.00
Research Theme
Relevant to other areas as well as climate
Initial Projected Completion Date
30/11/2021