Canada makes 3 additions to critical minerals list

High-purity iron, phosphorus, and silicon metal were added by the Canadian government to the country's critical minerals list.

In an analysis of the 2021 list and possible additions, the update kept all 31 minerals from the original list and added high-purity iron, phosphorous, and silicon metal.

High-purity iron ore is used in "green" or low-carbon steel. Phosphorus is a fertilizer and can also be used in Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries. Silicon metal is used to manufacture chips and semiconductors.

Canada reviews minerals recognized as critical every three years with its first list published in 2021. The list is intended to guide public policy and signal government priorities, according to the government.

By Alise Pruitt