Deep-sea minerals could meet the demands of battery supply chains – but should they?

Rare earths content was tested using hydrofluoric acid, which is much stronger and more efficient than industrial methods, but is too hazardous to use on a large scale.

The figures demonstrate that developing nations in South East Asia require high quality coal to meet increased electricity demand, powered by the growing urbanization of the population.

The group also announced it would sell its Noble Americas Energy Solutions (NAES), one of its crown jewels.

Other firms interested in the mines include BHP Billion, South32 and X2, with varying reports as to which remain in contention.

Current strategy director Bruce Cleaver will replace Philippe Mellier, who held the position for five years.

The company will seek a court order to stop the strike, which is already affecting output.

The Russian government aims to make more than 60 billion roubles ($909 million) from selling a 10.9 percent stake in Alrosa, with the sale taking place on the Moscow Exchange this year.

The transaction will result in a consolidated landholding of over 1,500km2 between and along a strike from the Oyu Tolgoi and Tsagaan Suvarga copper mines.

Funds will be used to deploy and operate the firm's Earth observation program, known as Ceres.