Tantalum is a rare metal with unique properties. Chief among these is that with a melting point of 2996 degrees Celsius, it's a superlative thermal conductor. Almost two-thirds of the world's tantalum production ends up in high quality capacitors that are used in devices such as mobile phones and other electronic gadgets.
The roots of Talison's problems lie in a conflict that is being fought out 10,000 kilometres away on the other side of the Indian Ocean. For much of the past decade, cheap supplies of tantalum derived from mines under the control of various rebel groups based in the north-eastern regions of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have flowed into a long and complex supply chain.
Among those groups profiting from this trade are Hutu militia associated with the 1994 Rwandan genocide.
www.smh.com.au/articles/2009/05/08/1241289162634.html?page=fullpage The International Rescue Committee refugee action group says the conflict has resulted in the death of over 5.4 million Congolese over the past decade.
By using the Think Screen thoughtfully you will satisfy the following NSW syllabus outcome, so remember to make reference to the concepts in this phrase: "Analyse how social, ethical and environmmental considerations can influence decisions about scientific research related to the development and production of tantalum."
It is proposed that tantalum should be mined for the benefit of mobile phone users worldwide.