A large-scale project to search for chrome ores has started in Chukotka. Geologists are exploring promising areas in the Anadyr region, where dozens of ore zones have already been identified. The implementation of the project will reduce the shortage of strategic raw materials for the Russian metallurgical industry.
As part of the federal program “Geology: Revival of a Legend,” specialists from JSC “Central PGO” are actively searching for chrome ores in Chukotka. The work is concentrated within the Krasnogorsk and Chirynai massifs, occupying a total area of about 70 square kilometers.
According to the chief geologist of the enterprise, Alexey Koval, the task of the expedition is to discover deposits with predicted resources of up to 23 million tons of ore. This will help create a new raw material base for domestic industry.
Chromium remains an acutely scarce raw material in Russia—our country accounts for less than 1% of global reserves. At the same time, the metallurgical industry consumes more than 90% of mined chromium ores. High-quality raw materials are necessary for the production of stainless steels, where the chromium content reaches 20%.
During the field season, geologists carried out a range of studies, including magnetic prospecting and gravity survey. More than 2,600 measurements were carried out, 16 ore zones with numerous manifestations of mineralization were identified. Selected rock samples were sent to laboratories to study their composition and properties.
“Preliminary results are encouraging: chromite ores are clearly distinguished by their density, which makes gravity prospecting an effective search method,” noted Stanislav Shatkevich from VNIGRI-Geologorazvedka JSC.
After completing laboratory studies, geologists will identify the most promising areas for detailed study. Drilling operations will make it possible to accurately determine the contours of ore bodies. The success of the project will strengthen Russia’s mineral resource base and reduce dependence on imports of chrome raw materials.
The material was prepared with the support of the Russian Ministry of Education and Science as part of the Decade of Science and Technology.
Source: @nedradvnews
Photo: Olga Yarovenko, geologist at JSC Central PGO
