The five-year MarMine program aims to assess resource potential and technological aspects related to seabed minerals and mining.
Being coordinated by the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), the program has already secured approximately NOK25m ($2.8m) from the Norwegian Research Council.
The MarMine project work involves gathering geological, mineral, environmental and biological samples by undertaking exploratory and sampling cruise in selected areas of the Norwegian part of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge (MAR).
The team will also assess the recovery potential of seafloor massive sulphide (SMS) ore as well as explore the potential for alternative processing solutions.
In addition to delivering a concept for mining and exploitation of the studied deposits based on the assessment of the rock’s mechanical properties, the research will focus on assessing process mineralogical properties of SMS deposits for use in the planning of mineral processing tests.
Additionally, the project involves an ecological baseline study and eco-toxicological tests to assess environmental impact of SMS mining to support guidelines and best available practices.
MarMine project manager Associate Professor Kurt Aasly said: "It is a unique project which will lead us to new frontiers of knowledge.
Nordic Mining CEO Ivar Fossum said: "We expect that MarMine will bring significant and valuable information about the future potential of seabed minerals in Norwegian waters.
"It will further provide base knowledge on how to develop this as a new business segment on a global basis."
The team will carry out a 4-week exploration cruise, which is scheduled in Q3 2016, to explore for SMS deposits within selected areas on the MAR.
