PROSPECTS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE RARE EARTH METALS MINING INDUSTRY FOR THE ECONOMY THE CHECHEN REPUBLIC

Abstract

The relevance of the topic. The article is devoted to the study of the prospects for the diversification of the economy of the Chechen Republic from the point of view of the development of new extractive industries. The rapid growth in demand for lithium (lithium-ion batteries, etc.) requires expanding its production capabilities and reducing its cost. Lithium extraction from brines of salt lakes, geothermal brines, and seawater is of increasing interest worldwide as an alternative to lithium ore mining due to its extensive reserves and relatively low cost. Currently, traditional technologies based on evaporation and precipitation of lithium salts are widely used to extract lithium from brines. However, they have limited performance and lead to significant environmental pollution. Recently, the attention of researchers has been focused on the creation of lithium recovery technologies using various electrochemical, membrane and similar technologies that can overcome these disadvantages. Goal. Assessment of the prospects for the development of the rare earth metals mining industry for the economy of the Chechen Republic. Methodology. The key scientific approaches were used: experimental and process-based. The main methods of scientific knowledge were: analysis and generalization. The information base was made up of scientific publications on the relevant research profile, open Internet sources, and own experimental developments. Results and conclusions. Today, the Chechen Republic is considered as the main region in the North Caucasus Federal District for the extraction of hydrocarbons. At the same time, it is necessary to state the fact that the share of the region in oil production is quite insignificant on a national scale. An analysis of the development opportunities of other extractive industries in the region is required. According to experts, the North Caucasus Federal District has a unique combination of balneological resources - mineral drinking waters, thermal waters and therapeutic mud. More than 30 % of all Russian mineral water resources and more than 70 % of the country’s thermal water reserves are concentrated in the North Caucasus. The region has a fairly large reserve of rare earth metals. The principles, advantages and disadvantages of existing and developing lithium recovery technologies are considered, in particular their selectivity, scaling limitations and environmental impact. The scope of application. The work was carried out within the framework of the state assignment of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation (topic no. FZNU-2023-0004 Study of the problems of sustainable development of the North Caucasus macroregion in the context of global and national challenges).