Scientists Uncover $1.5 Trillion Lithium Deposit Hidden Deep Beneath U.S. Supervolcano
Indian Defence Review••science
Key Points:
- Researchers have discovered a significant lithium-rich claystone deposit beneath the McDermitt Caldera near the Oregon–Nevada border, potentially containing 20 to 40 million metric tons of lithium valued up to $1.5 trillion.
- The deposit's strategic importance is rising due to increasing demand for lithium in electric vehicles, energy storage, and defense, prompting exploration led by HiTech Minerals Inc. under Bureau of Land Management permits.
- Local economic leaders express cautious optimism about development benefits, while environmental groups and Indigenous communities raise concerns over habitat disruption, groundwater risks, and cultural site impacts.
- Technical challenges exist as lithium extraction from claystone involves complex chemical processes with high water use and waste production, and large-scale mining operations have yet to receive federal
