3TG refers to four critical minerals: Tantalum, Tin, Tungsten and Gold, which are named after the initials of their names. These minerals are in the spotlight due to their importance in global supply chains and their potential "conflict mineral" attributes, particularly in industries such as electronics, aerospace, automotive, and jewelry.
1. Definition and Characteristics of 3TG
Tantalum: Extracted from tantalite (coltan), it has high corrosion resistance and capacitive properties, and is used in the manufacture of capacitors (widely used in electronic products such as smartphones and computers).
Tin: Extracted from cassiterite, it is used in the manufacture of soldering materials, electronic circuit boards, and alloys.
Tungsten: Known for its high melting point (3422°C) and high density (19.25 g/cm3), tungsten is used in superalloys, semiconductor manufacturing, military equipment (such as armor-penetrating projectiles) and new energy equipment.
Gold: Due to its high conductivity and corrosion resistance, it is used in electronic connectors, chip packaging, and jewelry industries.
2. 3TG as a "Conflict Mineral"
3TG is often associated with "conflict minerals" because some of them are produced in conflict areas such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo and its neighbouring countries. Mineral extraction in these areas may involve the control of armed groups, with funds used to support conflict, human rights abuses, or forced labor.
Regulatory Background
Section 1502 of the Dodd-Frank Act (2010) requires U.S. public companies to disclose whether the 3TG in their supply chain comes from the Democratic Republic of the Congo or neighboring countries, and to ensure that conflicts are not funded.
The EU Conflict Minerals Regulation (2017) requires importers to conduct due diligence on 3TG to ensure supply chain transparency, which will be fully implemented from 2021.
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has issued the Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Supply Chains of Minerals in Conflict and High-Risk Areas, providing an international standard for 3TG supply chains.
3. The Main Application of 3TG Minerals
Electronics industry
3TG is the core material for smartphones, laptops, servers, and other products. For example, tantalum capacitors account for more than 50% of global tantalum demand, and tungsten is used as a sputtering target for chip manufacturing (accuracy < 3 nm). New Energy Tungsten is used in solid-state battery electrodes and wind power gears, tin is used in photovoltaic welding, and gold is used in battery management chips. Aerospace & Military Tungsten is used in superalloys (aero engines), armor-penetrating projectiles, and gold is used in radar system connectors. Jewellery & Finance Gold dominates the jewelry and investment markets. 3TG Minerals' Global Supply Chain and Risk
