New sulfide deposit discovered on the Norwegian continental shelf

The Centre for Deep Sea Research at the University of Bergen (UiB) proved a new sulfide deposit on an expedition in the Norwegian Sea and the Greenland Sea this summer.

Data from previous surveys conducted by the Norwegian Offshore Directorate was the basis for the selected areas.

The expedition was carried out by the G.O. Sars research vessel during the period from June 24 to July 12, based on the license for scientific exploration, 900/2024. The objective of the surveys was to increase knowledge about the deep sea, and both geological and environmental data was collected.

A new inactive sulfide deposit was discovered (“Grøntua”), as part of a broader survey in the area surrounding the previously proven inactive sulfide deposit called “Deep Insight.” The discovery is situated just over one kilometer from “Deep Insight” in block N72E01_05, which is part of the southern Mohns Ridge.

The new deposit is located in 1,175 meters of water, has a diameter of 150 meters and extends 60 meters over the seabed.

Geological sampling from the “Grøntua” sulfide deposit was carried out using the Ægir 6000, an underwater robot (remotely operated vehicle, ROV). Seven samples were taken from the new proven inactive sulfide deposit using a grapple. All sampling has been documented with HD-quality video.

The collected material has not yet been analyzed, but preliminary observations based on the presence of a mineral called atacamite indicate a possible high copper content.