Ghanaian scientists have reported a significant discovery of tantalum in the Central Region.
The new study led by researchers Emmanuel Daanoba Sunkari, Joshua Nkansah, and Salaam Jansbaka Adams, said the discovery was made in the Bewadze-Mankoadze area of the Kibi-Winneba Belt in southern Ghana.
In a paper titled “Geochemical Exploration for Tantalum in Coltan-Rich Pegmatites at Bewadze-Mankoadze Area of the Kibi-Winneba Belt Southern Ghana,” the scientists detailed the identification of tantalum-rich pegmatites, which are abundant in the igneous rock known as pegmatite.
The research involved comprehensive petrographic analysis and statistical evaluations of major and minor elements to pinpoint tantalum deposits in the region.
By examining rock samples from pegmatite outcrops, the team was able to map geochemical anomalies concentrated in the southwestern section of the study area, where they recommend future exploration efforts be concentrated.
Notably, tantalum-rich pegmatites have also been identified in other southern Ghana locations, including Ewoyaa, Biriwa, and Winneba.
According to the Royal Society of Chemistry, one of the main uses of tantalum is in the production of electronic components. An oxide layer which forms on the surface of tantalum can act as an insulating (dielectric) layer. Because tantalum can be used to coat other metals with a very thin layer, a high capacitance can be achieved in a small volume.
Tantalum is increasingly recognized as a critical mineral for modern energy-saving technologies, particularly in capacitors essential for renewable energy systems such as solar panels, wind turbines, and electric vehicles.