The Tantalum-Niobium International Study Center (T.I.C.) Miners

The latest publications relating to Miners

T.I.C. Bulletin Entry – No. 174

Logistics, Manufacturing, Miners

This issue explores the role of niobium superconductors in the ITER fusion project, the re-emergence of Western Australia as a major tantalum supplier, and previews the 59th General Assembly in

T.I.C. Bulletin Entry – No. 177

Logistics, Miners

Explore Bulletin 177 with best practices for NORM shipping, an in-depth feature on Brazil’s niobium and tantalum sector, and niobium capacitor performance insights.

T.I.C. Bulletin Entry – No. 179

Logistics, Manufacturing, Miners

T.I.C. Director Roland Chavasse outlines how due diligence, mineral traceability, and increased production from Brazil and Australia have made tantalum supply more secure than ever. The article covers artisanal mining’s

T.I.C. Bulletin Entry – No. 184

Logistics, Miners

This technical paper explores the critical role of tantalum capacitors in 5G telecom networks, highlighting their stability, reliability, and compact design advantages. It discusses use in GaN-based power amplifiers and

T.I.C. Bulletin Entry – No. 185

Logistics, Miners

Explore Bulletin No. 185 covering Class 7 transport issues, OECD conflict mineral due diligence, and the future of niobium rebar for seismic resilience. April 2021.

T.I.C. Bulletin Entry – No. 187

Manufacturing, Miners, Processing

This edition features the 2021 Ekeberg Prize-winning paper on tantalum machining challenges. It explores cutting mechanics, sinuous flow, and a novel mechanochemical effect using marker ink to improve cutting efficiency.

T.I.C. Bulletin Entry – No. 188

Logistics, Miners, Processing

Bulletin 188 highlights the shortlisted research for the 2022 Ekeberg Prize, including novel work in tantalum bonding, thin film testing, and additive manufacturing. Also featured are updates on CERN’s use

Flow and Stock Estimation of Tantalum for Sustainable Supply Chain

Tantalum (Ta)

Miners, Processing

Columbite

Gallery: Niobium minerals

Niobium (Nb)

All, Miners, Processing

Minerals containing Niobium (Nb). All photos copyright T.I.C. 2019/2020
Cambior, Ferroniobium production (Rachelle Bergeron)

Processing: extraction and refining

Niobium (Nb)

All, Miners, Processing

Two separate processing schemes are utilized for niobium production. Those companies that mine pyrochlore convert the niobium oxide units into HSLA ferroniobium through the aluminothermic reduction process or by reduction
Mibra mine

Production of raw materials

Niobium (Nb)

All, Miners

The primary mineral from which niobium is obtained is known as pyrochlore. The world's largest deposit is located in Araxa, Brazil and is owned by Companhia Brasileira de Metalurgia e
Kobeite

Gallery: Tantalum minerals

Tantalum (Ta)

All, Assaying, Miners

Minerals containing Tantalum (Ta). All photos copyright T.I.C. 2019