Critical Mineral Research:
Graphite

Background

Crystalline graphite stands as a vital component in the anodes of lithium-ion batteries powering electric vehicles. With forecasts predicting a tenfold surge in graphite demand by 2040, fueled by sustainable development initiatives to curb carbon emissions, the need for this primary material is more significant than ever. Despite the heyday of domestic graphite production during World War I, a decline set in, reaching a halt in the 1980s. Presently, the United States relies on imports of natural graphite from countries like China or resorts to high-cost synthetic graphite.

Recognizing the urgency of understanding domestic supply potential, the U.S. Geological Survey has embarked on a critical mineral resource assessment for graphite. This comprehensive initiative includes compiling a modern mineral inventory and updating the grade and tonnage model for disseminated flake graphite deposits. The aim is to equip decision-makers with crucial insights into the nation's graphite resources, paving the way for informed choices in a landscape driven by the pursuit of sustainable and efficient energy solutions.

Research

My contribution to the critical mineral assessment has three parts:

  1. Compile reported location of graphites from many databases into one large database that is publicly accessible.

  2. Use literature and mapping (both modern and historical) to improve the spatial accuracy and attribute information on these locations.

  3. Compose a modern grade and tonnage model for graphite using official reports on domestic and global deposits.