Critical Mineralogy
Critical Metals and Minerals in Coal Basins: Genesis, Distribution, and Recovery
Co-Conveners
Hongfei Cheng, Chang'an University
Throughout the geological history of coal formation, coal-bearing sequences have acted as exceptional geochemical traps, concentrating a suite of critical metals and minerals far beyond their average crustal abundance. These include elements such as lithium, gallium, rare earth elements, vanadium, and others, are vital to modern technology and the energy transition agenda. The enrichment of these critical resources within coal basins represents a complex interplay of biogeochemical processes, sedimentological partitioning, and post-depositional hydrothermal activity. The genesis, distribution patterns, and ultimate recovery of these metals are now recognized as issues of paramount scientific and economic importance, fundamentally reshaping our perception of coal basins from mere energy sources to potential polymetallic reservoirs.
Yet, the processes and mechanisms controlling the enrichment, spatial heterogeneity, and mineralogical residence of these metals remain only partly constrained and is still debated. The primary geochemical signatures are frequently obscured by later events or locked in refractory mineral phases, presenting significant challenges for both exploration and extraction. Unraveling the enigma of metal concentration and developing sustainable recovery pathways demands a concerted, interdisciplinary effort.
We invite contributions from researchers across disciplines—including economic geology, mineralogy, geochemistry, hydrometallurgy, coal petrology, and environmental science—to share perspectives, explore the source-transport-trap continuum of critical metals, and advance our understanding of their genesis, distribution, and recovery. This session aims to bridge fundamental science with applied technologies, addressing major challenges such as identification of host phases, the development of efficient and environmentally-friendly extraction methods, and the responsible management of processing by-products.
