White mineral in Serbia resembles fictional Kryptonite
Researchers say Jadarite could become a significant lithium source for electric vehicles in Europe.
A white mineral found in Serbia has a chemical composition that almost matches the fictional Kryptonite from Superman stories, according to a Times of India report. The mineral, named Jadarite, was first discovered in 2004 and gained international attention in 2007 due to its similarity to the substance that weakens the superhero.
Unlike the green, radioactive Kryptonite in films, Jadarite is a white, powdery substance. The resemblance is limited to its chemical formula, sodium lithium boron silicate hydroxide. Mineral expert Chris Stanley of the Natural History Museum said he discovered the connection after searching the chemical name online and finding it in the 2006 film Superman Returns.
Researchers at the Natural History Museum have found that Jadarite could be an important source of lithium for electric vehicles in Europe. The mineral contains lithium in quantities comparable to spodumene and also contains concentrations of boron. Professor Richard Herrington, a co-author of the research, said the Serbian deposit contains nearly a hundred million tonnes of Jadarite.
Herrington stated that if mining is permitted, the deposit could provide nine tenths of the lithium needed for electric vehicles in Europe. However, local opposition has prevented mining operations from proceeding in the Jadar Valley.
A study published in Nature Geoscience suggests Jadarite formed through a combination of volcanic activity and alkaline soda lakes up to 16 million years ago. Researchers believe understanding these specific conditions could help identify other locations where the mineral might exist.