Nodule harvesting technology uses advanced underwater systems to collect polymetallic nodules from the ocean floor, enabling efficient extraction while minimising environmental impacts and meeting international regulations.
Nodule Exploration, Mining, and Processing Technologies
Nodule exploration, mining, and processing technologies include advanced methods for locating, extracting, and refining polymetallic nodules from the seabed. These technologies aim to ensure efficient resource recovery while prioritising environmental sustainability and compliance with international regulations governing deep sea mining.
Cutting-edge subsea technologies, such as robotic drilling units, are set to transform industrial mineral extraction, with engineers supported by highly sophisticated equipment. Companies have been exploring the deep sea for minerals for several years, and the next step is to introduce automated systems for more effective resource extraction. Despite this progress, the industry must still overcome significant challenges. Equipment must be both durable and reliable under extreme oceanic conditions. The key question remains: can machines operate independently on the ocean floor? Experts are confident that many aspects of deep sea mining can be improved through robotic and automated technologies. The main challenges are operational, particularly ensuring environmental sustainability and achieving accurate resource targeting.
Although autonomous subsea technology is transformative, traditional geological surveys continue to play a critical role. Many optimisation tasks are addressed with advanced geospatial mapping techniques. It is therefore no surprise that topics such as seabed mapping and environmental monitoring remain among the most in-demand applications in the sector.
