Harnessing Oman's Basalt Resources for Economic Diversification: A Strategic Roadmap for High-Value Manufacturing and Clean Energy Applications

Abstract

In line with its Vision 2040 goals for economic diversification, the Sultanate of Oman holds extensive but largely untapped basalt reserves. This study presents a screening-level techno-economic analysis and strategic roadmap for transforming this indigenous resource from a low-value commodity into a cornerstone of a high-value and sustainable industrial ecosystem. The research methodology integrates a quantitative analysis of Oman's current basalt sector with a formal comparative economic model to quantify the potential for value addition. The study highlights a stark economic contrast: exporting raw basalt earns only about $7.30 per tonne, while converting it into Basalt Fiber Reinforced Polymer (BFRP) rebar can generate over $2,500 per tonne. The analysis shows a conservative value increase of more than 300 times, with a preliminary Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA) demonstrating that BFRP significantly outperforms traditional steel economically in infrastructure projects. It also confirms that Omani basalt from the Samail Ophiolite is exceptionally well-suited for producing advanced fibers. Furthermore, this paper identifies and discusses a parallel strategic opportunity for Oman to leverage these same geological formations for large-scale, permanent carbon sequestration with the potential for clean hydrogen co-generation. The paper concludes by proposing a phased strategic roadmap for Oman, recommending the prioritized development of an integrated BFRP rebar value chain while initiating research into basalt-based climate technologies, thereby positioning the Sultanate as a future regional leader in both advanced green materials and the global energy transition.