New critical minerals tech ramps up in NSW

The NSW Government has unveiled a piece of groundbreaking critical minerals technology at the Londonderry Core library, marking its first rollout in Australia.

The HyLogger 4, which came at an investment cost of $450,000, is a spectral scanner that marks a significant advancement in mineral exploration and geological research that allows for rapid and non-destructive spectral analysis of geological samples.

According to the NSW Government, this provides critical data, leads to more sustainable exploration practices, and paves the way for future advancements and sustainable practices in the State’s mining industry.

The technology works by providing high-resolution digital images and detailed mineralogical information captured at a millimetre scale spatial resolution.

When used in the field this can provide new avenues for research and exploration in a sustainable way.

NSW Government chief scientist and head of the geological survey Dr Phillip Blevin says the installation of the technology will cement NSW as a global leader in geoscientific innovation and is a game changer for the industry.

“The state-of-the-art rapid spectroscopic machine uses a logging and imaging system that employs continuous visible and infrared spectroscopy with digital imaging to analyse drill cores, samples, and cuttings without causing damage,” he said.

“This innovative machine will enhance our understanding of mineralogy, improving efficiency in geological studies and boosting the future of critical minerals in NSW.

“Survey geologists have been collecting spectral signatures of samples from the State’s mineral collection known to be associated with critical mineral and high-tech minerals deposits to train the HyLogger 4 to identify similar minerals in drill core and rock samples that otherwise would not be visible to the naked eye.

“By embracing technologies like the HyLogger 4, we are not just investing in our resources sector, but also ensuring that we do so responsibly and sustainably, which aligns with our commitment to protect our environment while harnessing the benefits of our rich mineral resources.”