Aerial solutions for mining and exploration

Engineers at Monash University have developed a new catalyst that could drive zinc-air batteries from hearing aids and watches to EVs and large-scale industrial applications. While zinc-air batteries are currently used in small devices, this opens the door to rechargeable, high-power applications, moving the technology closer to real-world, grid-scale and transport uses. Using microscopic heat treatment, the researchers have developed carbon sheets from 3D materials, adding a framework of individual cobalt and iron atoms to greatly increase reactivity and efficiency within the battery. Saeed Askari and Dr Parama Banerjee, lead authors from Monash University’s chemical and biological engineering department, say the breakthrough catalyst outperformed standard commercial catalysts made from expensive metals like platinum and ruthenium. “By engineering cobalt and iron…

Evolution Mining (ASX: EVN) has seen record high profit in FY25, driven by increased production alongside favourable commodity prices. The miner has reported a statutory net profit of $926m, up by 119% from FY24. Evolution Mining managing director and chief executive Lawrie Conway says the record financial performance was achieved through safely delivering to plan across all of its operations. “Our cost and production performance in the year saw our balance sheet continue to strengthen, with gearing levels falling while successfully delivering several major capital projects,” he said. “We have also been able to increase returns to shareholders with a record final dividend of 13 cents per share. “Evolution remains focused on continuing to generate high cash margins in FY26…

The WA Environmental Protection Agency (WA EPA) has given its endorsement and recommendations for BHP’s (ASX: BHP) proposed Jimblebar Hub expansion.  The Jimblebar Hub combined proposal covers plans to develop mining deposits both above and below the water table surrounding the Pilbara mine.   To facilitate this, BHP plans to build new overburden storage areas, a new beneficiation plant, an overland conveyor, roads and pipelines.  EPA chair Darren Walsh says the independent authority’s report included recommended conditions to mitigate impacts to conservation-significant flora and fauna and to ensure the protection of the area’s biodiversity and ecological integrity.  “Conditioning limits of disturbance to fauna habitat, including mining exclusion zones for the ghost bat, would support the continued presence of the species within…