Copernicium is a compelling and exotic member of the periodic table, occupying a place among the heaviest known elements. Synthesized in minute quantities in particle accelerators, this element captures the imagination of physicists and chemists alike because it confronts the limits of nuclear stability and challenges our understanding of chemical behavior under extreme relativistic effects. […]
The long-term outlook for the lithium carbonate market is shaped by a complex interplay of technological trends, policy choices, extraction capacity, and global economic forces. As the backbone chemical for many lithium-ion batteries, lithium carbonate will remain central to the energy transition, yet its role and value will evolve as new chemistries, recycling systems, and
Long-term outlook for the lithium carbonate market Read More »
Phlogopite is a member of the mica family whose subtle colors, layered structure and chemical composition make it both a geologist’s window into deep Earth processes and a material of practical use in industry and technology. This article explores the mineral’s chemistry and structure, where it forms and is found, the many applications that rely
The Peñasquito Zinc Expansion is part of an evolving story at one of Mexico’s largest polymetallic operations. Located high on the central-northern plateau, this project focuses on boosting the recovery and production of base metals—especially zinc—alongside the mine’s significant gold and silver output. Beyond the technical and engineering questions, the expansion has implications for regional
Peñasquito Zinc Expansion – Mexico – Zinc Read More »
Petalite occupies a niche yet increasingly important place in the world of minerals and industrial raw materials. As a relatively uncommon lithium-bearing silicate, it bridges traditional mineralogy, modern industrial chemistry and the rapidly evolving energy sector. This article explores what petalite is, where it is found, how it is processed and used, and some lesser-known
The Palmarejo mine in Mexico is one of the country’s noteworthy gold‑silver producers, situated in a region with a long mining tradition and complex geology. This article outlines where Palmarejo is located, what minerals are extracted there, its economic role for local and national stakeholders, and several technical and historical points that make the operation
Palmarejo Mine – Mexico – Gold/Silver Read More »
Pectolite is a fascinating but often overlooked mineral that bridges the worlds of mineralogy, gemology and cultural history. Known for its delicate fibrous crystals and the rare, enchanting blue variety called Larimar, pectolite appears in the cavities of volcanic rocks and has intrigued collectors, lapidaries and scientists alike. This article explores the mineral’s composition, global
The Pinos Altos mining district, centered around the community of Pinos Altos in the state of Chihuahua, Mexico, is a long-established centre of mineral extraction in the northern Sierra Madre. Known primarily for its gold and silver resources, the area combines a rich mining history with active modern operations, complex geology, and a role that
Pinos Altos Mine – Mexico – Gold Read More »
Roentgenium is an intriguing member of the periodic table whose existence is tied entirely to high-energy nuclear experiments. Although virtually unknown outside specialist circles, this synthetic and extremely radioactive element has become a valuable probe into the limits of atomic and nuclear physics. In this article I will describe how roentgenium was discovered and produced,
Pascoite is a captivating and uncommon mineral that belongs to the family of secondary vanadate salts. Its bright colors and delicate crystal habits make it a sought-after specimen for mineral collectors, while its chemistry—centered on complex vanadium oxide clusters—makes it an object of interest for researchers in inorganic chemistry, crystallography and environmental geochemistry. This article
