A critical mineral is a mineral commodity whose importance to specified uses combines with vulnerability in its supply. Criticality depends on the assessment's region, time and criteria. The United States Geological Survey explains it through essential functions and potential supply disruption, while noting that assessments change as technology and supply conditions change.[ref]
What is a critical mineral? by the United States Geological Survey. Definition and changing criticality; no current-list claim
From an engineering viewpoint, substitution requires more than matching one headline property. A replacement for a contact material must also meet requirements for electrical conductivity, corrosion, processing and service life. Recycling and alternative designs can alter demand, while concentrated production or processing can affect supply risk. Criticality consequently links material performance with the resilience of the system using it.
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