Lithium deposits
Part of: Prelims and GS-II – International relations and GS-III – Mineral exploration
Context Chinese companies have begun “on-site inspections” of possible projects to tap lithium deposits in Afghanistan.
- Afghanistan also has significant reserves of copper, gold, gemstones, beryllium, iron ore, marble, oil & gas, and rare earth elements.
- Recent estimates suggest the worth of untapped minerals could be as high as $3 trillion.
About Lithium
- A 2010 US study revealed that Afghanistan could have among the world’s largest deposits of lithium.
- Lithium is considered key to global agenda of switching to electric vehicles
- Uses: Rechargeable batteries
- ceramics and glass
- Lubricating greases
- Polymer production
- Lithium consumption for batteries has increased significantly in recent years
- The world has an identified lithium reserves of 80 million tonnes.
- Countries with Highest deposits: Bolivia, Argentina, Chile and USA.
