Due to this almost-complete dependence on foreign sources, Molycorp is now looking to reopen its Mountain Pass mine in California and there is growing pressure on Congress to authorize the much-needed stockpiling of strategic minerals.

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In recent weeks, the floors in that part of the mine had been "heaving, " or buckling up, from intense pressure, said the source, who has intimate knowledge of the conditions in the mine.

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An increase in copper demand places pressure on the supply side, which continues to experience shortfalls in mine output versus forecasts.

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Children are ideal because of their flexible hands and gentle pressure on the chisel and the hammer, says Rana Sengupta with the Mine Labor Protection Campaign (Trust) in Rajasthan.

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This is the same gas responsible for recent coal mine accidents, and it can infiltrate the water reservoir if there is too much pumping, which creates a pressure draw down.

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