Deep undersea mining system and mineral transport system

摘要

Systems and methods for recovering manganese nodules from the seabed are disclosed. A buoyant body is generated by freezing water, forming a clathrate ice, or using a liquid that is less dense than seawater. Nodules that have been collected from the seabed are incorporated into or otherwise coupled to the buoyant body. The buoyant body is then released to make a free or tethered ascent to the surface.

主权项

1. A method comprising:
forming a buoyant body in an electrically-powered buoyant body generator under water in a body of salt water by:
transporting fresh water from the surface to a site at which the buoyant body is to be formed; andfreezing the fresh water; coupling a payload to the buoyant body; and causing the buoyant body and payload to ascend to the surface of the water.