Tungsten is a versatile material whose demand has continued to grow thanks to its key role in high-tech industries and strategic sectors. Below, we review its main applications:

1. Electric vehicles

Tungsten improves electric vehicle batteries by increasing their energy density, performance and safety. The combination of niobium oxide and tungsten makes it possible to reduce charging times and increase power, meeting the growing demand for sustainable mobility.

2. Energy sector

Europe leads research into nuclear fusion through the ITER project, which uses tungsten in reactor covers due to its high resistance to extreme temperatures.

Tungsten also helps improve the efficiency of renewable energies when applied in photovoltaic solar technologies and wind turbines. In lighting, it is present in incandescent bulb filaments, fluorescent electrodes and compounds used in LEDs.

3. Electronics and robotics

Tungsten hexafluoride (WF6) is essential in semiconductor production, a market that is growing by more than 12% a year. In addition, the metal is key in the manufacture of robotic arms and heavy machinery, thanks to its hardness, conductivity and thermal stability.

4. Defence and aerospace industry

The combination of density, strength and stability makes tungsten a fundamental resource for the manufacture of projectiles, armour, aircraft components and satellites.

5. Specialised industrial applications

Tungsten is used in electrical discharge machining processes to manufacture high-precision parts, in carbide cutting tools, and in the manufacture of TIG welding electrodes.

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Tungsten, also known as wolfram, is one of the most fascinating metals in the periodic table and a critical raw material for the European Union. Its importance goes beyond the industrial sector: it is an essential element for the present and future of technology, energy and defence.

The highest melting point

Tungsten has the highest melting point of all known metals: 3,422 °C. This makes it an irreplaceable material in applications that require resistance to extreme temperatures, such as jet engines, aerospace components, or cutting and welding equipment.

Classified as a critical raw material by the EU

The European Commission includes tungsten on its list of Critical and Strategic Raw Materials. This is due to its economic importance and supply risk, as currently more than 80% of world production comes from China. Promoting its extraction in Europe is key to strengthening the continent’s strategic autonomy.

A history linked to Spanish mining

Tungsten has a strong connection with Spain’s mining history. During the Second World War, its extraction on the Iberian Peninsula was key to the armaments industry. Today, projects such as the El Moto mine in Abenójar (Ciudad Real) aim to regain that strategic leadership.

A dense and resistant metal

It is one of the densest metals, surpassed only by osmium. This density, combined with its hardness and corrosion resistance, makes it an ideal material for manufacturing counterweights, armour and high-impact components.

Natural fluorescence

One of tungsten’s minerals, scheelite, is easily recognisable in the laboratory by its characteristic blue fluorescence under ultraviolet light. This facilitates its identification in geological exploration processes.

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The feasibility study for the ‘El Moto’ mining project in Abenójar (Ciudad Real) confirmed resources of 91 million tonnes of tungsten ore with an average grade of 0.44% $\text{WO}_3$, along with an additional resource of 1.2 million ounces of gold.

Developed by the company Abenójar Tungsten SL with the backing of EIT RawMaterials, the project plans to begin facility construction in 2025 and start production in 2027, aiming to become Europe’s leading tungsten producer.

Economic and Strategic Impact

The company notes that El Moto will have a direct impact on the region’s economic revitalization, creating over 500 direct jobs and thousands of indirect jobs in sectors such as construction, transport, and services.

Tungsten is a critical raw material for the European Union, essential in sectors such as aerospace. Currently, more than 80% of the global supply comes from China, creating a dependency risk that this project will help significantly reduce.

El Moto will cover 20% of Europe’s demand for tungsten, exceeding the target set by the Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA), which stipulates that at least 10% of these resources should originate from the EU.

Bernd Schäfer, CEO of EIT RawMaterials, highlighted that this project is key to Europe’s strategic autonomy, reinforcing the EU’s independence and demonstrating that European mining can be innovative, sustainable, and socially responsible.

The mayor of Abenójar, Verónica García, emphasized that this represents a “historic opportunity” to combat depopulation and attract investment, in addition to offering new employment opportunities.

Technical aspects of the project

The deposit allows for efficient extraction through underground mining at depths between 50 and 350 meters, with low waste generation.

The extraction process will be carried out under a sustainable approach, implementing advanced waste management and energy efficiency systems, in compliance with European Union environmental regulations.

Currently, Abenójar Tungsten is in the process of securing total financing for the project, which amounts to 140 million euros. According to its general manager, Gonzalo García, this funding is key to starting construction work within this year.

The recent declaration of the ‘El Moto’ mining project as strategic for the European Union has marked a turning point for Abenójar and its region. However, the regional government is not satisfied with just extracting tungsten: it is firmly committed to developing a mineral treatment and processing industry in the area, which is currently limited to Germany.

The Second Vice President of Castilla-La Mancha, José Manuel Caballero, highlighted during his visit to the deposit the need to generate an industrial ecosystem that takes advantage of tungsten’s potential in sectors such as the aerospace industry, defense, precision technology, or renewable energy.

The project, backed by the main political forces, the citizenship, and with environmental permits in order, has already been defined as an example of sustainable, consensual, and responsible mining. Caballero highlighted that “the land that our grandparents worked should also be able to be enjoyed by our children and grandchildren.”

In addition to the 300 direct jobs that will be generated, a significant impact against rural depopulation is expected. Provincial deputy Maribel Mansilla stated that it is “a key tool to revitalize the entire region,” while the mayor of Abenójar, Verónica García, celebrated this milestone as a “historic” moment for her municipality.

The proximity of the Almadén School of Mines will also be a key added value, facilitating technical training and knowledge transfer to consolidate this strategic development hub in Castilla-La Mancha.

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The ‘El Moto’ mining project in Abenójar (Ciudad Real) continues to generate anticipation after being declared a Strategic Project by the European Commission. In the words of the president of Abenojar Tungsten SL, Gonzalo García San Miguel, it is the largest tungsten deposit in the world outside of China, with more than 90 million tons of resources and an estimated lifespan of nearly 100 years.

After 14 years of work, the operation has all the permits to begin activity, at a depth of 50 meters. It is estimated that 4.4 kg of tungsten and 0.5 grams of gold can be extracted for every ton of mass, making it a highly profitable operation with low operating costs.

In a first phase, 3,000 tons of tungsten will be produced, representing 20% of current European consumption. If necessary, production could be tripled.

The economic impact will be remarkable: 300 direct jobs will be created, many of them skilled (mining, electrical, and industrial engineers, drillers, machinery operators, welders), and up to 1,000 jobs during the construction phase. The project has the support of the Regional Government of Castilla-La Mancha and maintains a close collaboration with the Almadén School of Engineering to train future professionals.

Tungsten, considered a critical and strategic metal, has key applications in sectors such as the military industry, aerospace, renewable energy, and precision technology. This project is presented not only as an economic engine, but also as an example of responsible mining, with social and institutional consensus.

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The ‘El Moto’ mine, located in Abenójar (Ciudad Real), has recently been declared a Strategic Project by the European Commission, marking a turning point for the region. In addition to its tungsten resources, an essential mineral for sectors such as defence, renewable energy, and aerospace technology, the project includes an initial investment of €140 million and the creation of more than 500 direct and indirect jobs.

The second vice-president of the regional government, José Manuel Caballero, has highlighted the importance of developing the mineral processing industry within the region itself, creating a productive and sustainable ecosystem around the deposit. Currently, this type of processing is carried out exclusively in Germany.

Institutional support has been unanimous: both President García-Page, the Provincial Council of Ciudad Real, and the Abenójar City Council itself have worked together to bring a project to life that represents not only an economic boost, but also a model of responsible, sustainable mining with social consensus. Mayor Verónica García has stated that “whoever has a mine, has a treasure”, highlighting that Abenójar will now also be known as “Land of tungsten”.

This mine not only guarantees a strategic supply for Europe, but also stands out as a key tool in the fight against depopulation, helping to retain the local population and attract technical talent, especially thanks to the proximity of the Almadén School of Mines.

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The European Commission has approved the exploitation of “El Moto” mine, located in Abenójar (Ciudad Real), recognizing it as a Strategic Project for the European Union. It is a unique deposit in Europe, with nearly 100 million tons of tungsten, a scarce metal considered a critical raw material for sectors such as defense, construction, and technology.

In addition to tungsten, the mine also houses more than one million ounces of gold, which further reinforces its strategic value. It is estimated that the reserves will allow for its exploitation for at least 30 years starting in 2027, generating wealth for the region and reducing Europe’s dependence on countries like China.

The inclusion of the project among those selected by Brussels allows access to key EU funds, opening the door to a remarkable economic boost in one of the most depopulated areas of Castilla-La Mancha.

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El Moto, Europe’s leading tungsten mining project, has been officially designated as a European Strategic Project under the Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA). This recognition reinforces its role in reducing EU dependence on Chinese tungsten—currently supplying over 80% of the world’s demand—and secures greater access to European funding.

A Strategic Step Towards European Industrial Autonomy
Tungsten is essential for critical sectors such as aerospace, defence, technology and renewable energy. El Moto’s inclusion in the CRMA list marks a major milestone towards European self-sufficiency in this vital material.

Spanish Ownership with Proven Experience
El Moto is backed by a 100% Spanish shareholder with a strong mining background. The same group also operates the Rubián magnesite mine in Lugo, active for over 50 years, showcasing a successful and sustainable exploitation model.

Tungsten: A High-Value Strategic Metal
Thanks to its exceptional thermal and mechanical strength, tungsten is widely used in:

• Military and aerospace: armour, ammunition, turbines and high-strength parts
• Electronics and telecoms: semiconductors, filaments and electrical contacts
• Energy: wind turbines and energy storage systems
• Industrial tools: cutting, drilling and machining applications

A High-Impact, Competitive Project
El Moto stands out for its scale and potential:

• Will meet 20% of EU tungsten demand by 2030
• Europe’s richest deposit with >0.4% WO₃ and 0.5 g/tm gold
• Over 60 million tonnes of resources, ensuring long-term production
• 300 direct jobs for at least 26 years in a region with limited employment
• Sustainable underground mining with low dilution and optimised costs
• €150 million investment and a 24-month development timeline, aiming for production by 2027–2028

Accelerated Funding and Construction
As a European Strategic Project, El Moto gains preferential access to EU funding and accelerated implementation processes. The project already holds all administrative permits, and this support will further speed up its development.

Institutional and Local Support
The success of El Moto has been made possible by the strong backing of national, regional, and local governments, as well as the people of Abenójar. The company expresses its deep gratitude and is committed to generating stable, long-term employment that drives regional economic and social growth.

A Key Project for Europe’s Strategic Resource Independence
With CRMA recognition, El Moto plays a pivotal role in securing Europe’s tungsten supply, reducing reliance on imports from China and boosting the continent’s industrial resilience.

📋 COMMISSION DECISION of 25.3.2025 recognising certain critical raw material projects as Strategic Projects under Regulation (EU) 2024/1252 of the European Parliament and of the Council

China has announced the immediate ban on the export of several strategic minerals to the United States, including gallium, germanium, antimony, and superhard materials, which are essential for the manufacture of semiconductors, weapons, and other advanced technologies. In addition, graphite will be subject to a stricter review process before export.

One of the most strategic raw materials in this conflict is tungsten (wolfram), a critical mineral for multiple industries due to its high resistance and density. It is used in the manufacture of cutting tools, aerospace components, military armour, and advanced technologies.

A blow to the U.S. technology and military industries.

The tightening of controls on these minerals is a response to the restrictions imposed by the Biden administration to limit China’s access to advanced U.S. technology. Beijing is using its dominance in the production of these strategic resources as a pressure tool in the technology war.

In recent years, China had already implemented regulations to oversee the export of gallium and germanium, materials essential for semiconductors, and in 2023 it added antimony, used in military explosives. Tungsten, although not directly mentioned in the recent restrictions, is a dual-use material (civil and military), meaning that any limitation on its supply could seriously affect the manufacture of key products in the U.S., including precision weaponry and industrial machinery.

China’s ban on exporting superhard minerals could cause particular concern within the U.S. national security community. The ban was reportedly aimed at Chinese tungsten exports, which are vital for manufacturing armour-piercing bullets and projectiles, said Oliver Friesen, CEO of Guardian Metal Resources, a London-based company planning to mine tungsten in Nevada.

Establishing a new tungsten mine in Nevada will take approximately three years, he said. “We are moving forward quite quickly,” he added.

When the Biden administration expanded the tariffs imposed by Trump during his first term in September, it added a 25 percent tariff on tungsten imports from China as part of an effort to encourage U.S. tungsten users to seek more reliable suppliers elsewhere.

The political context and the escalation of the conflict.

The Chinese announcement coincides with the possible arrival of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency, as he has promised to further tighten trade restrictions against China. In response, Beijing… has intensified its control over the export of strategic minerals.

China had already introduced new regulations in October requiring rare earth exporters —including tungsten— to provide detailed information on the end use of materials within Western supply chains. This policy has created uncertainty among manufacturers of semiconductors, weaponry, and electronic devices, which rely on a stable supply of these resources.

SOURCE| NEW YORK TIMES

EIT RawMaterials-supported El Moto’s tungsten project completes DFS, targets 2025 construction.

• Spanish greenfield El Moto completes Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS)
• Targets start of construction in 2025, first production in 2027
• Tungsten is a Critical Raw Material vital to the industrial, military and aerospace sectors
• El Moto was supported by the European Raw Materials Alliance (ERMA)
• EIT RawMaterials is supported by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), a body of the European Union

Berlin, 13. 12. 2024 The El Moto project, located in Abenójar, central Spain, crossed a major milestone with the finalization of its Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS) showing a resource of 91 MN tons of tungsten ore @0.44% WO3eq and 1.2 MN ounces of gold at the cut-off grade of 0.25% WO3. The project targets bring it closer to the start of construction in 2025.

El Moto is supported by EIT RawMaterials-led European Raw Materials Alliance in securing funding, offtake agreements, and technical expertise.

Bernd Schäfer, CEO, Managing Director, EIT RawMaterials: “The El Moto project represents a significant opportunity for Europe – not only to secure critical raw materials but to demonstrate how mining can be carried out responsibly, delivering real benefits to the local economy and communities. Projects like El Moto demonstrate the future of European mining – securing a strong social license, world-class ESG, and helping secure critical raw materials for Europe’s industrial competitiveness.”

Europe is heavily dependent on imports to meet its tungsten demand, which has been designated a critical and strategic raw material by the EU. With its significant resources, El Moto is positioned to make Europe a major producer of tungsten, helping secure its own requirements and become a leading global supplier of tungsten, securing European supplies for key industries, including steel manufacturing, construction, as well as the aerospace sector.

Gonzalo García San Miguel, CEO, Abenójar Tungsten SL, says: “After 14 years of productive yet challenging preparation, the project is now fully permitted and ready to build. We are now thrilled to embark on the final phase of this project: delivering high-grade tungsten from Europe, for Europe. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to EIT RawMaterials for their unwavering support in exploring financing opportunities and accompanying us on this crucial step toward opening a mine that is vital for Europe’s future.”

The El Moto mining project is set to create over 500 high-skilled jobs in the region, contributing to local economic growth. It is supported by both national and local stakeholders and actively engages in rural development initiatives and partnerships with community organisations.

The greenfield project is an important development for the central Spanish region. It is operated by Abenójar Tungsten SL and wholly owned by European private investors. The next step involves securing a total funding of €140 million to begin constructing the planned underground mining operations, which will extend to depths of up to 350 meters. Construction of the mine and processing plant is scheduled to begin in 2025, with production anticipated to start by 2027.

About EIT RawMaterials

EIT RawMaterials is the largest and most active raw materials knowledge and innovation network globally, comprising over 300 partner organisations across the entire raw materials value chain. EIT RawMaterials demonstrates its dedication to advancing and supporting a circular economy in Europe by fostering innovation, collaboration, and sustainable practices. Mandated by the European Commission, EIT RawMaterials leads the European Raw Materials Alliance (ERMA), which includes more than 750 members and an advanced project pipeline of over 40 projects, representing an investment potential of more than €25 billion.

Supported by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), a body of the European Union, EIT RawMaterials was established in 2015 to advance Europe’s transition to a sustainable economy. Its mission is to secure a sustainable supply of raw materials for Europe, close material loops, and design innovative product solutions, with the goal to position raw materials as a strategic strength for Europe through innovation, education, and entrepreneurship.

Since its founding, EIT RawMaterials has deployed over €600 million in direct strategic funding to support more than 800 projects and start-ups. These initiatives, including ERMA projects, have leveraged additional funding of €5 billion from external sources, creating a cumulative impact of more than €5.5 billion in critical and strategic raw materials projects, technologies, and programmes across Europe and beyond.

About Abenójar Tungsten SL

Abenójar Tungsten SL is the mining operator of the “El Moto” mining project, one of the most important deposits of tungsten and gold in the European Union, located in Abenójar, Ciudad Real (Spain). Abenójar Tungsten is a subsidiary of MBO HOLDING SA with more than 35 years of experience in the mining sector and, more recently, in the renewable energy sector, among others. Find out more at Abenójar Tungsten SL.

SOURCE | EIT RAW MATERIALS

Key proposals such as a Technology Observatory and an Integrated Training Plan to boost competitiveness, create local employment, and promote STEM careers

Coinciding with the celebration of Saint Barbara, the patron saint of miners, the second Mining Sector Roundtable was held on Wednesday 4 December at the Rural Development Centre (CEDER) ‘Valle de Alcudia y Sierra Madrona’, located in Almodóvar del Campo.

This meeting helped consolidate this participatory forum as a permanent monitoring body, representing a significant step towards responsible mining management and sustainable development in this area of the province of Ciudad Real.

The event, organised by the Valle de Alcudia Rural Development Group (GDR), was attended by its technical team, as well as various representatives from the sector, including institutions, companies, and local and regional organisations. Among the attendees were Abenójar’s mayor, Verónica García; the head of the Puertollano Employment and Entrepreneurship Office, José Ángel Sendarrubias; and Javier Carrasco, Director of Industrial Activities at MAYASA.

Also participating were Antonio Chamorro and Manuel Rufilanchas, Dean and Board Member respectively of the Official College of Mining Engineers of Levante, as well as Rosina Martín, Dean of the College of Mining Engineers of Almadén.

Other attendees included Nuria Núñez and Pedro Torres, representing the training consultancies Modem and Red Futuro Emprende; Pedro Mesas, from the mining and industrial engineering company Inminer; and Laura López, from the environmental company Fomecam.

Three representatives from Abenójar Tungsten, the company leading the ‘El Moto’ mining project, were also present: María Rosa Simón, Head of Administration and Development, who also chaired the meeting; geologist Carlos Sabán; and Mining Engineer Antonio Cueva.

During the session, the importance of mining as an economic driver for the region was highlighted, along with its capacity to generate employment and opportunities, always within a sustainable development model that guarantees respect for the environment and the local population.

The commitment of all stakeholders involved in developing policies that promote ethical and sustainable mining activity, with a positive social impact, was also reaffirmed.

Main programme objectives

To achieve these goals, four key proposals were presented to strengthen the sector’s competitiveness, ensure the sustainability of operations, and generate added value for the region.

The first proposal was the creation of a Mineral Processing and Metallurgy Technology Observatory, conceived as a space for innovation and technological monitoring, essential for promoting advances in mining and metallurgical processes.

Secondly, the drafting of an Integrated Mining Training Plan was proposed, including both general courses and workshops, as well as specialised programmes in mining disciplines. These initiatives will target unemployed people or those without previous sector experience, prioritising the recruitment of local workers.

The third pillar focuses on promoting STEM careers — Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics — through collaborations with schools. The goal is to increase the number of students choosing these fields by 15% over the next decade, with particular attention to female participation.

Finally, the establishment of joint working frameworks between public administrations, companies, and society was proposed, with the aim of strengthening the region’s business and social fabric.

Additional initiatives

Various complementary actions were also discussed, including promoting private initiatives and circular economy projects, encouraging innovative research projects, and maintaining the validity of the State’s Definitive Reserve in the ‘Almadén’ area.

The importance of recovering research projects developed by MAYASA was highlighted, with the aim of reactivating them and creating new business opportunities that integrate mining activity with companies in the region.

Another relevant point was the presentation of the innovative Communities 4 Climate project, a collaboration between the Valle de Alcudia GDR and Abenójar Tungsten, which aims to reuse water from the ‘El Moto’ tungsten mine for extensive livestock farming, game species management, and hydroponic green fodder crops.

Finally, the organisation of a Sustainable Mining Conference was proposed, with the objective of sharing best practices in responsible mining and highlighting its positive impact on the region.

The Abenójar tungsten mine project

During the meeting, the strategic importance of tungsten as a critical and essential raw material for various industries was emphasised, as well as its potential to act as a catalyst for economic development in the region.

The mining project in Abenójar has been designed as a sustainability model, ensuring compliance with the highest social and environmental standards.

In this context, the Mining Sector Roundtable reaffirmed its commitment to generating long-term social benefits, promoting active participation throughout all phases of the project in order to strengthen the social fabric and improve quality of life in the region.

SOURCE | 8 Lanza

On Wednesday 11 December, NATO published a list of 12 defence-critical raw materials essential for the Allied defence industry. These materials are integral to the manufacture of advanced defence systems and equipment.

Aluminium, for example, is pivotal in producing lightweight yet robust military aircraft and missiles, enhancing their agility and performance. Graphite is crucial for the production of main battle tanks and corvettes due to its high strength and thermal stability. In submarines, graphite is used in the construction of hulls and other structural components, significantly reducing acoustic signatures and enhancing stealth capabilities. Cobalt is another critical material, essential for producing superalloys used in jet engines, missiles, and submarines, which can withstand extreme temperatures and stress.

The availability and secure supply of these materials are vital to maintaining NATO’s technological edge and operational readiness. Disruptions in their supply could impact the production of essential defence equipment. Identifying these key materials is NATO´s first step towards building stronger, better protected supply chains, crucial for Allied defence and security.

This initiative is part of a roadmap, endorsed by NATO Defence Ministers in June 2024, to protect Allied supply chains from disruptions that could affect NATO’s deterrence and defence. The list was informed by the NATO Industrial Advisory Group (NIAG), using a defence-capability focused methodology. The public release of this list highlights NATO’s commitment to support Allies in securing essential materials for the development and delivery of Allied defence capabilities.

List of NATO Defence Critical Raw Materials

1. Aluminium
2. Beryllium
3. Cobalt
4. Gallium
5. Germanium
6. Graphite
7. Lithium
8. Manganese
9. Platinum
10. Rare Earth Elements
11. Titanium
12. Tungsten

SOURCE | NATO