Russia discovers new rare-earth mineral Kola Ashcroftine

Researchers in northern Russia have identified a previously unknown rare-earth-rich mineral, provisionally named Kola Ashcroftine. The discovery was made on the Kola Peninsula within the Khibiny alkaline massif by a team from Saint Petersburg State University, the Kola Science Centre of the Russian Academy of Sciences, and the A. E. Fersman Mineralogical Museum.

The mineral contains yttrium and other rare-earth elements, alongside calcium, manganese, fluorine, silicon, potassium, and sodium. Scientists noted its unusually complex crystal structure, which is based on silicate nanotubes linked to a zeolite framework. This structure could offer potential applications in ion-exchange technologies, water purification, pharmaceuticals, and nuclear energy.

The find occurs as Russia attempts to expand its domestic rare-earth industry to reduce import dependency. While Russia possesses substantial estimated reserves, its current production is limited; the country consumes approximately 3,000 tonnes of rare-earth metals annually but produces only about 50 tonnes. The discovery remains at the research stage and does not yet constitute a commercial deposit.