Copper’s fiery origins to fuel new discoveries

The push to find new copper resources, as the world transitions to electrification and renewable energy sources, has been given a boost thanks to an international study that has cracked the code on the metal’s origins.

Copper is on Australia’s Strategic Minerals List and the study, which includes researchers from University of Western Australia (UWA), could reshape how the metal is mined and unveil new pathways to future copper deposits.

Published in Nature Geoscience, the study proposes a new model for the formation of large copper deposits.

Led by Dr Tom Lamont from the University of Bristol, the research is part of the ‘High Grade Hypogene Copper’ initiative, a consortium that includes UWA and BHP.

BHP expects global copper demand to grow by about 70% to over 50mtpa by 2050 and, while existing mines are experiencing declining grade and ageing infrastructure, major copper discoveries are also becoming less common and getting deeper.

Only four copper discoveries were made between 2019-2023, totally 4.2mt of copper, compared with 239 copper deposits discovered between 1990-2023, according to S&P Global Market Intelligence.

Flat slab subduction

Co-author Associate Professor Tony Kemp, from UWA’s School of Earth Sciences, says researchers focused on the formation of copper deposits beneath volcanic chains where tectonic plates converge, a process known as flat slab subduction.

“This phenomenon causes the sinking plate to heat up and release fluids, which then percolate into the overlying plate, melting it and channelling copper and other metals upwards to form ore deposits,” Associate Professor Kemp said.

“Recognising areas where flat slab subduction has occurred in the past is crucial for discovering new copper resources, which means this new innovative approach could significantly enhance our ability to meet the growing demand for copper, driven by the electrification and renewable energy sectors.”

The study also highlighted the importance of precise dating of copper deposits using a radiometric laser-based technique which was developed by Research Fellow at UWA’s School of Earth Sciences Dr Dan Bevan, another co-author on the study, while he was at the University of Bristol.

Geological events

The technique, which is now being implemented at UWA, allows researchers to link copper deposits to specific geological events, providing a clearer understanding of their formation.

“The ability to accurately date and locate copper deposits is a game-changer for the industry,” Dr Bevan said.

“This collaboration is a testament to the power of innovative research and its potential to drive sustainable resource development.”

As part of the newly established ARC ITTC in Critical Resources of the Future, Associate Professor Kemp said UWA would continue to lead cutting-edge research and training in the field.

“The University’s commitment to advancing our understanding of copper and critical mineral formation is poised to play a pivotal role in securing the resources needed for a sustainable future,” he said.