Definition: Columbite-tantalite, (Fe,Mn)(Nb,Ta)2O6, or coltan, is a metallic ore found in Australia, Canada, Brazil, and central Africa. After refinement, coltan yields metallic tantalum (Ta), a heat-resistant powder capable of holding high electrical charge. Tantalum is used in the manufacture of numerous electronics including cell phones, pagers, and computers.
Coltan mining in eastern areas of Congo in central Africa is controversial due to the significant environmental damage it inflicts on the region. Large areas of national parks have been mined and regions inhabited by populations of endangered easter lowland gorillas destroyed, causing further decline of the gorilla population. Additionally, political unrest in the area means smuggling of coltan has become quite common.
