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Critical Minerals Alaska 2020 / Alloy Metals


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  • Superalloy critical rhenium metal Pebble mine project Bristol Bay Alaska

    Pebble hosts 90 years of durable rhenium

    Shane Lasley, Mining News|Updated Apr 23, 2021

    Rhenium is exceptionally resistant to heat and wear, characteristics that make it a vital ingredient in superalloys used in jet and industrial gas turbine engines. "The high-temperature properties of rhenium allow turbine engines to be designed with finer tolerances and operate at temperatures higher than those of engines constructed with other materials," the United States Geological Survey penned in a fact sheet on the critical metal. "These properties allow prolonged engine... Full story

  • Chrome plated stainless steel chain

    Irreplaceable chromium deposits in Alaska

    Shane Lasley, Mining News|Updated Dec 23, 2020

    While the United States consumes roughly 5% of the chromite mined globally, none of this chromium mineral comes from domestic mines. Instead, America relies on foreign sources for approximately 72% of its supply and the balance of this vital ingredient in stainless steel and many superalloys comes from recycling. Nearly all America's chromite imports come from one country, South Africa. This heavy reliance on one country, coupled with a dearth of alternatives for this vital... Full story

  • Lightweight heat resistant strong durable aerospace metal

    Titanium demand is nearly all white

    Shane Lasley, Mining News|Updated Dec 23, 2020

    The United States imported more than 90% of the 1.4 million metric tons of titanium minerals it consumed during 2019. What the mass majority of this critical mineral was used for, however, may come as a surprise. While titanium's lightweight and extreme durability make it an excellent material for aircraft and high-performance sporting equipment, more than 90% of this mineral mined each year is used to impart a stark whiteness to a surprisingly wide variety of consumer goods w... Full story