How can strategic metals drive the economy? Tungsten and tin production in Spain during periods of war

Abstract:

Modern living is heavily dependenton mining activities. Having a secure and stable supply of mineral resources has proven to be a key for societies, especially during periods of war. A total of 39 raw materials are identified as ‘strategic’ for the current European defense industry and 16 are additionally considered critical due to economic reasons and risks of supply by the European Commission. Any material can become critical if the demand exceeds supply and this is illustrated through a case study of tin and tungsten demand in Spain during the First World War and Second World War. Tungsten, identified as strategic, was extracted in Spain throughout 20th century, in the process becoming the most important supplier for Germany during Second World War. The extraction of tin has also had political implications, being the basic component used in the manufacturing tin cans. These cases may be used as a proxy for gauging how even a single mineral may boost economies and can be assimilated to current efforts being made across the world to secure supplies of raw materials.

Año de publicación:

2019

Keywords:

• Tungsten
• Tin
• Strategic minerals
• First World War
• Second World War

Fuente:

scopus