Deep Sea Mining

Synonyms

Deep seabed mining; Ocean mining

Definition

Deep sea mining is defined as the process of seabed mineral excavation, transmission, lifting from the deep to the surface, and extracting valuable metal elements or products from the minerals. The definition of deep seabed is usually distinct in different disciplines. Generally, the depth of deep seabed mining is referred to much deeper than 1000 m. Most of the seabed area deeper than 1000 m is located in the international seabed area which is under the regime of the International Seabed Authority (hereinafter referred to as ISA). In accordance with the regulations of ISA, any state or entity can submit and apply an exploration contract sponsored by the state or states (China Ocean Mineral Resources R&D Association 2015).

Scientific Fundamentals

Deep Seabed Mineral Resources

The amounts of deep seabed mineral resources are huge and usually include mineral resources such as polymetallic nodules, cobalt-rich crusts, polymetallic...