Coltan, also known as Columbite-Tantalite, is an ore that yields two important metals: tantalum and niobium. The mineral is composed of both tantalum-dominant and niobium-dominant components, known respectively as tantalite and columbite. These metals are highly valued and play a crucial role in a range of modern technologies, especially in the production of electronic capacitors and super alloys, which are essential to various industries.
Tantalum and niobium are embedded in many of the devices and technologies people rely on today. They are used in a wide variety of products, including mobile phones, jet engines, computer hard drives, hearing aids, cameras, reflective lenses, and pacemakers. Their unique properties make them indispensable for these applications, providing stability, durability, and efficiency.
Historically, the supply of coltan has been heavily associated with conflict zones in Africa, raising concerns about the ethical sourcing of these metals. In recent years, there has been a shift towards ensuring responsible and conflict-free supply chains. Governments and corporations are placing greater emphasis on transparency and ethical sourcing to prevent the support of conflict through mineral procurement. Côte d’Ivoire, a country free of such conflicts, holds significant reserves of coltan, making Firering’s assets particularly attractive to buyers and traders who prioritise responsibly sourced tantalum and niobium.
Coltan is a crucial resource in today’s technology-driven world, and efforts to source it ethically are gaining momentum. This shift towards responsible procurement not only supports more sustainable business practices but also contributes to the overall integrity of the global supply chain.
Firering Strategic Minerals plc (LON:FRG) is an AIM-quoted mining company focused on becoming a near-term cash generating producer of Quicklime, through their Limeco Project in Zambia, whilst at the same time progressing with the exploration and development of their Atex Lithium Project, Côte d’Ivoire.
