Hunan discovers super-large lithium deposit, various strategic minerals

Central China's Hunan province announced the discovery of a super-large lithium deposit and various strategic minerals, the local natural resources department said recently.

The deposit, located in Linwu county in Chenzhou, boasts 490 million metric tons of lithium, along with 1.31 million tons of lithia. The deposit also includes associated minerals such as rubidium, tungsten and tin, all meeting the criteria for medium-scale deposits.

These minerals hold strategic importance for the country's development. For example, lithium is an essential ingredient for developing rechargeable batteries and can be used as a heat transfer in nuclear reactor. Rubidium is used in atomic clocks, medical imaging and industrial processes. Tungsten possesses the highest melting temperature among metals and can be used in electrical, manufacturing, construction and chemical. Tin is used in plating steel food containers and making bearing metals.

The deposit exploration lasted for one year since 2023. Construction of mining, beneficiation and smelting facilities has been fully initiated, stimulating investments in the local lithium battery industry. It is projected to generate 400 million yuan ($56 million) in annual tax revenue once production commences.