Research

•  Key Research Areas 

1. Strategic Re-evaluation of Korean Mineral Deposits (국내 광상의 경제적 잠재력을 현대적 광상학 개념으로 재평가)
We apply modern metallogenic concepts to re-examine and assess the economic potential of domestic ore deposits, aiming to revitalize local resource development.

2. Exploration of Mongolian Critical Minerals & REEs (몽골의 핵심 광물 및 희토류의 생성 기원과 분포 패턴을 연구)
We investigate the geology of Mongolia to secure supply chains for critical minerals and Rare Earth Elements (REEs), focusing on their genesis and distribution patterns.

3. Unlocking the Potential of Deep-Sea Resources (미래 해양 자원 이해를 위해 망간단괴, 열수광상, 망간각 등의 형성 메커니즘을 연구)
Our research targets the formation mechanisms of vast seafloor resources, including polymetallic nodules, hydrothermal deposits, and ferromanganese crusts, to understand future marine resources.

4. Tracing Solar System Evolution via Meteorites (운석의 화학적/동위원소적 특징을 분석하여 초기 태양계 형성 과정 연구)
By analyzing the chemical and isotopic signatures of meteorites, we reconstruct the timeline and processes that shaped the early Solar System.

5. Planetary Geology: From Earth to the Moon and Mars (지구 유사 지역 연구를 수행하여 달, 화성, 소행성의 지질 환경을  연구)
We bridge the gap between Earth and space by conducting comparative geological studies (analog studies) to understand the surface environments of the Moon, Mars, and asteroids.

6. Advanced Nanomineralogy using Synchrotron Radiation (고해상도 방사광 기술을 활용해 점토 및 나노광물의 원자 구조와 물성을 규명)
Utilizing high-resolution synchrotron X-ray techniques, we analyze the atomic structures of clay minerals, nanominerals, and amorphous phases to reveal their fundamental properties.

7. Pioneering Natural (Geologic) Hydrogen Research (탄소 없는 지속 가능한 에너지원으로서 천연 수소의 지질학적 생성 원리 연구)
We explore the geological generation mechanisms of natural hydrogen to assess its potential as a sustainable, carbon-free energy source.

8. Climate Action through Mineral Carbonation (이산화탄소를 영구 격리하는 광물 탄산화 기술을 개발)
We develop innovative mineral carbonation technologies to permanently sequester carbon dioxide, contributing to global climate change mitigation strategies.