From little things big things glow

Queensland geologists are searching the rainforest floor in the far north and the sandy deserts of the far south west for ‘rare earth’ materials that will be used to make the high-tech lamps and lasers of the future.

Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson said geologists had already surveyed more than 50,000 square kilometres of the state, taking samples of the rare earth mineral potential of river beds, rainforests and sandy desert plains.

“They’re producing the first ever national database that will yield hidden secrets and uncover more of the energy and mineral potential of Queensland,” Mr Wilson said.

Rare earth minerals such as cerium, lanthanum and erbium are highly sought after in an expanding global market.

“Among other things, they’re used by scientists to build hybrid cars, superconductors, LCD technology, halide lamps and lasers,” he said.

“It’s incredible that in this day and age, we go right back to where it all began, millions of years ago, to source ‘rare earth’ material to build the latest technology,” he said.

Minister Wilson said national and international companies were already showing significant interest in the survey.

The eight-strong team is part of a five-year National Geochemistry Survey of Australia.

“The Queensland leg of the survey is expected to be completed by the end of the year and the national database ready in three year’s time,” Mr Wilson said.

“It will be a valuable tool, particularly for scientists and explorers looking for rare earth elements to help make modern technology,” he said.

Minister Wilson said his team of geologists had to battle the daytime heat of the desert, frigid nights, and dust and rain storms.

“At one stage they had to abandon camp when caught in floodwaters south of Quilpie.

“But their investigative work will deliver huge dividends. It will reveal, for the first time, the true energy and mineral potential of untapped and unexplored parts of the state,” he said.

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