Characteristics, Exploration, Development and Utilization Status of Tantalum Resources in China

Tantalum possesses excellent properties such as high melting point, good ductility and toughness, low coefficient of thermal expansion, and corrosion resistance. Based on the results of national survey of tantalum resources, re-evaluation of associated and low-grade deposits, and previous studies, this paper summarizes and analyzes the characteristics, exploration, development, and utilization of tantalum in China, as well as the development status of the lithium industry chain. Tantalum deposits in China can be classified into seven types: albite granite, pegmatite, alkaline rock, carbonatite, altered rock, weathering crust, and placers. Among these, albite granite and pegmatite types are the most important. This study summarizes the temporal and spatial distribution patterns of tantalum deposits in China and divides them into 16 distinct tantalum metallogenic belts. Although the exploration level of tantalum deposits in China is relatively high, the overall resource endowment is poor, and few deposits are actively mined. Currently, 11% of tantalum resources are covered by mining licenses. Among them, only 20 % of the mines are in production. As a result, the utilization rate of tantalum resources remains low. In China, coverage of the tantalum industry chain is complete, but the development patterns are unbalanced. In particular, the upstream raw material selection process has obvious disadvantages. To ensure a stable supply, the development of tantalum resources can be promoted by strengthening comprehensive utilization. Exploration investment should be increased to identify new resources and promote exploration for mining. Strategic use of overseas mining markets and advance planning for raw material reserves are recommended.