Iain Pitcairn, Associate Professor in Ore Geology at Stockholm University and researcher at the Smart Exploration Research Center, is involved in the exciting research project "MINREE - Magnetite as an Indicator mineral in REE deposits".
The project, funded by Vinnova through Impact Innovation Metals & Minerals, investigates whether the mineral magnetite can be used as an indicator to locate rare earth elements (REE) in the mineral-rich Bergslagen region.
Objectives and expected results
The project analyzes trace elements and isotopes in magnetite from drill cores at Blötberget, where the goal is to:
- Identify stratigraphic levels in complex mineralized areas.
- Tracking REE deposits by the composition of magnetite.
The study may lead to the development of new tools to more efficiently locate REE mineralization, which in turn can contribute to sustainable mineral extraction and Sweden's green transition.
The project is carried out by Stockholm University in collaboration with Nordic Iron Ore and is part of Sweden's investment in sustainable innovation in metals and minerals.
