Exploring exploration—how to look for deep-sea minerals

Abstract

AbstractIn the spring of 2023, the subsea industry in Norway is gearing up for an opening of the Norwegian continental shelf (NCS) for deep-sea mineral exploration and extraction. Existing research indicates that the profitability of deep-sea mining with today's technology heavily depends on high ore grades. This study explores the potential for emerging techno-operational concepts for exploration to affect the profitability of seafloor massive sulfide (SMS) industry on the NCS. By way of computer simulation, the study analyzes technologies currently or soon poised to enter the subsea market concerning their advantage or disadvantage for the SMS industry on the NCS. The study indicates a significant advantage in developing geophysical sampling technology for assessing mineral resources and some advantage in developing unmanned surface vessels for regional surveys. It further indicates that developing fleet-operated autonomous underwater vehicle concepts for high-resolution surveys is not only moot but possibly counterproductive. The study thereby contributes techno-operational insight for a budding industry currently looking for technology to improve commercial prospects.