The following article explores the significance, history and workings of the iron deposit and mining complex near Zouerate in northern Mauritania. It describes where the mine is located, what minerals are extracted, how operations are organized, and why the site has been pivotal for the country’s development. The text also highlights several intriguing and lesser-known […]
Zouerate Mine – Mauritania – Iron ore Read More »
Sodium is a ubiquitous and fascinating chemical element whose presence shapes landscapes, technologies, and living systems. Although often associated with the everyday taste of salt, sodium’s significance extends far beyond the kitchen. This article explores where sodium occurs in nature, its chemical and physical characteristics, industrial and technological applications, its critical roles in biology and
The increasing sophistication of modern aerospace and defense platforms depends as much on materials science as on aerodynamics or software. Advanced aircraft, missile systems, satellites and hypersonic vehicles rely on a handful of rare metals and specialty elements that provide exceptional combinations of strength, temperature resistance, electrical behavior and magnetic performance. This article examines which
Role of rare metals in aerospace defense technologies Read More »
The Guelb Moghrein operation is one of Mauritania’s best-known mineral projects — a combined copper‑gold deposit that has served as an important node in the country’s growing mining sector. Located in the western part of the country, the site illustrates how a single modern mine can influence local infrastructure, national export earnings and the regional
Guelb Moghrein – Mauritania – Copper/Gold Read More »
The Tasiast mine is one of the most prominent mineral projects in West Africa. Located in the sparsely populated, arid regions of northwestern Mauritania, it has grown from an exploration camp into a large-scale open-pit operation that shapes local economies, national export profiles and regional infrastructure. This article explores where the mine is located, what
Tasiast Mine – Mauritania – Gold Read More »
Gabbro is a coarse-grained, dark-colored igneous rock that forms a fundamental part of the Earth’s oceanic and continental crust. Its dense textures, distinctive mineral composition and broad range of occurrences make it a subject of interest across geology, engineering and industry. This article explores how gabbro forms, where it occurs, how it is used, and
The Sadiola gold operation is one of West Africa’s best-known mining sites, combining a long operational history with a complex social and environmental footprint. Located in the western part of the country, the mine has been an important source of foreign exchange, employment and regional infrastructure development. This article examines the mine’s location and geology,
Sadiola Mine – Mali – Gold Read More »
Magnesium is a versatile and widely distributed element that plays critical roles across chemistry, industry, and biology. Its presence ranges from the vastness of the ocean to the structure of living cells, and its chemical behavior underpins a variety of technologies — from lightweight structural components to medicinal preparations. This article explores the properties, natural
Geopolitical dynamics increasingly shape the landscape of global mineral markets. For companies and governments engaged in sourcing essential raw materials, robust assessment frameworks are no longer optional: they are strategic imperatives. This article examines the tools, methodologies and practical actions needed to integrate geopolitical risk analysis into mineral procurement processes. It highlights how an understanding
Geopolitical risk assessments in mineral procurement Read More »
The Loulo-Gounkoto mining complex in western Mali is one of West Africa’s most important gold-producing operations. Located within the prolific West African gold belt, the complex combines multiple open-pit and underground operations and has been a major contributor to Mali’s mining sector for years. This article examines where the complex sits geographically and geologically, what
Loulo-Gounkoto Mine – Mali – Gold Read More »
