mineral
Manganese Nodule
Polymetallic Nodule (Hydrous manganese and iron oxides)
Hardness varies from 1.5 to 3 on the Mohs scale, color ranges from dark brown to black, dull to earthy luster, amorphous or microcrystalline structure, specific gravity around 2.0 to 3.0.
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Physical properties
Hardness varies from 1.5 to 3 on the Mohs scale, color ranges from dark brown to black, dull to earthy luster, amorphous or microcrystalline structure, specific gravity around 2.0 to 3.0.
Formation & geological history
Formed through hydrogenetic and diagenetic processes on the deep-ocean floor over millions of years by the slow precipitation of manganese and iron oxides around a core.
Uses & applications
Studied as a potential source of critical metals such as nickel, copper, cobalt, and rare earth elements for industrial and technology manufacturing.
Geological facts
These potato-sized metallic lumps cover vast areas of the abyssal plains, particularly in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone of the Pacific Ocean at depths of 4,000 to 6,000 meters.
Field identification & locations
Identified by their dark, roughly spherical nodular shape found exclusively in deep marine environments; highly sought after by specialized research and mineral collectors.
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