Problem Statements

Deep-sea nodule collection technologies

Two distinct challenges to develop next-generation systems for collecting polymetallic nodules from the deep ocean — sustainably, and at scale.

The objective

Identify and support innovative technologies for the collection of polymetallic nodules from depths ranging between 4,500 and 6,000 m i.e., deep-ocean operating conditions.

Proposed solutions should demonstrate:

Technical feasibility
Scalability
Operational reliability
Energy efficiency
Environmental sustainability
Indigenous innovation
Commercialisation potential

Operating Environment

Proposed technologies must be capable of enduring these extreme deep-sea conditions.

Water depth

4,500 – 6,000 m

Hydrostatic pressure

450 – 600 bar

Ambient temperature

2 – 4 °C

Seafloor

Soft cohesive sediment with less than 2 kPa shear strength

Target material

Polymetallic nodules

Nodule size

20 – 150 mm

Nodule density

1.6 – 1.8 g/cm³

Nodule abundance

10 – 15 kg/m²

Collection capacity

1.5 – 3 million tonnes / year

Environmental Requirement

Minimise sediment disturbance, plume generation, and ecosystem disruption while facilitating habitat recovery

The two challenges

Select a problem statement to explore its background and full scope for innovation. You may enter one or both.

Problem Statement I

Development of mining system with Innovative Impact less Nodule Collection System with Vertical Riser Transport

Illustration of a deep-sea mining system with a vertical riser pipe connecting a seabed collector to a surface support vessel

The conventional deep-sea mining architecture employs a tracked seabed collector coupled with a vertical riser and lifting system that transports nodules hydraulically or mechanically to a surface support vessel. While technically mature compared to other concepts, significant challenges remain in Collector efficiency, Sediment management, Hydraulic transport efficiency, Energy consumption, Reliability, System weight, Deployment logistics and Environmental footprint.

Scope for innovation

Collector vehicle
Pick-up mechanism
Hydraulic collection head
Mechanical collection head
Nodule separation
Water management
Sediment rejection
Intelligent navigation
Autonomous operation
Riser interface
Pumping concepts
Hybrid transport systems
Energy optimisation
Condition monitoring
Modular architecture

Novel ideas beyond the above are encouraged.

Common Technical Requirements

The proposed technology should address these core aspects:

Mechanical design

Pressure-resistant systems
Corrosion resistance
Modular construction
Reliability

Electrical systems

Power architecture
Redundancy
Sensors
Underwater connectors

Control systems

Autonomous navigation
Position estimation
Mission planning

Environmental Considerations

Sediment disturbance
Plume mitigation
Biodiversity protection
Habitat recovery
Noise reduction
Energy efficiency

Expected Deliverables

Stage I — Proof of Concept

▹Concept note
▹Technical description
▹Novelty assessment
▹Preliminary design
▹Functional architecture
▹System block diagram
▹Preliminary performance assessment
▹Estimated Technology Readiness Level (TRL)
▹Development roadmap

Stage II — Detailed Project Report

▹Detailed Project Report (DPR)
▹Engineering design
▹Mathematical models
▹System simulations
▹Design calculations
▹CAD models
▹Risk assessment
▹Failure mode analysis
▹Environmental impact assessment
▹Prototype development plan
▹Cost estimation
▹Technology development schedule