AI Revolutionizes the Search for Rare Earth Elements
Scientists have developed a machine learning model that can predict the locations of minerals on Earth and potentially other planets. By analyzing patterns in mineral associations, the model uses data from the Mineral Evolution Database to identify previously unknown mineral occurrences. The model was successfully tested in the Tecopa basin, a Mars analog environment, and located promising areas for critical rare earth elements and lithium minerals. This advancement has significant implications for mineralogists, petrologists, economic geologists, and planetary scientists.