Cutting-edge Global Technologies for Extraction and Processing of Critical and Strategic Raw Materials: A Review

Abstract

To some extent, each country defines critical minerals differently, but in general, they are strategiccommodities that have no substitutes, that are mined and processed in a similar way in the relevant regions ofthe world, and that encompass the raw materials needed to produce advanced technological products such asrenewable energy equipment, electronics, batteries, and electric vehicles. In recent years, the global miningindustry has had to deal with increasing public pressure to adopt more sustainable practices and to cope withgrowing environmental and social demands. The rise of digital transformation, fuelled by advances in artificialintelligence, blockchain, big data, the Internet of Things, robotics, 3D printing, nano- and biotechnology,quantum computing, network algorithms, machine learning, and other emerging technologies, presents a uniqueopportunity for the mining industry to innovate and improve its productivity. These technologies can enhanceoperational efficiency, reduce environmental impact, improve the sustainability of production chains, andencourage more responsible resource extraction