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Pioneering nodule collection technology
At Allseas, we are at the forefront of the offshore energy transition, leveraging our deepwater expertise to develop cutting-edge technology to responsibly collect polymetallic nodules from the ocean floor. These mineral-rich nodules are crucial for producing the metals needed in electric vehicle (EV) batteries and renewable energy storage systems. The energy transition is driving a significant and increasing demand for resources, particularly nickel and cobalt. Production of these raw materials is scarce, and Europe currently relies on a small number of countries for supply.
Polymetallic nodule collection represents a new exciting chapter for Allseas. With our history of industry firsts and vision, we are committed to delivering sustainable solutions to supply the metals needed for clean energy technologies in support of the global energy transition.
Seafloor-to-shore supply chain
Together with our strategic partner, The Metals Company (TMC), we are developing the framework for an entire seafloor-to-shore supply chain, while tackling the complex problem of environmental protection and technology readiness.
At the heart of operations is the subsea collection vehicle, optimised to pick-up seafloor nodules with minimal disturbance of the seabed.
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4.5 kilometres
nodules are transported to the surface via a vertical riser
4500 tonnes
record haul of mineral-rich polymetallic nodules
Nodules are transported 4.5 kilometres to the surface via a vertical riser, where they are stored on board our production vessel, Hidden Gem, before transfer to bulk carriers.
Historic milestone
Pilot trials in the Pacific Ocean’s Clarion Clipperton Zone (CCZ) in 2022 demonstrated our system’s ability to operate safely under extreme deep-sea conditions. The trials concluded with a series of full-scale production runs, which netted a record haul – an estimated 4500 tonnes – of mineral-rich polymetallic nodules. It marked the first successful fully integrated nodule collection tests since the 1970s.
The focus is now on scaling up the system, implementing lessons learnt to further optimise engineering and operational capacity as we target commercial operations after adoption of the regulatory framework.
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Environmental responsibility
Conducted in a small test area in NORI-D, our offshore trials presented the scientific community with a unique opportunity to conduct extensive environmental impact analysis and research. During several weeks of integrated tests, scientists deployed a range of high-tech equipment to survey, monitor and sample sediment plumes and noise levels generated by nodule collection and transport operations.
Scientists returned to the test location a year later to further assess impact and restoration. The results were extremely positive. The ongoing monitoring programme represents the largest scientific study ever conducted in the CCZ and will provide critical environmental data to the International Seabed Authority’s (ISA) regulatory and permitting process.
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Other activities
From offshore pipelaying to installing and removing offshore structures, Allseas excels in the design and execution of large and complex offshore projects worldwide. Activities include design, engineering, procurement, fabrication and project management.
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