CUTTING edge scientific processes have found mine sites which have mineral and metal deposits hidden inside their waste.
The Geological Survey of New South Wales’ Mine Reuse Project collected more than 1200 samples.
Specimens were then run through the latest sampling techniques and underwent high precision chemical analysis to identify critical minerals.
Current mines where researchers were looking for additional materials include Broken Hill’s RASP and Southern Operations mines, Peak Gold Mine and Tritton near Cobar, and Stratford in the Upper Hunter.
Results from the survey are being released this week as part of NSW Minerals Week, with the aim of further highlighting the state’s position as a leader in exploration and mining of critical minerals.
Critical minerals and high-tech metals are used as part of technologies like electric vehicles, solar panels, wind turbines, along with aerospace applications.
The International Energy Agency estimates during the next 20 years the global economy could require six times the current amount of critical minerals to reach net-zero carbon emissions goals.
State Minister for Natural Resources, Courtney Houssos, said the release of the data reinforces NSW is a place to be for explorers looking to find the next minerals project.
“As key ingredients in our solar panels, wind turbines, EVs and batteries, critical minerals and high-tech metals are integral to our economic future,” she said.
“This release of data is an important part of our critical minerals’ strategy.
“This pre-competitive data helps to minimise investment risk in exploration and identify new opportunities.
“We know how important mining is to communities across the state. More exploration means more jobs and more investment in regional NSW.
“It’s also a good reminder of the important work done by the Geological Survey of NSW as we celebrate its 150th year. The agency has made a remarkable contribution to the mining, exploration and geology sectors in NSW.”
NSW Minerals Council CEO Stephen Galilee said the study’s results could have meaningful impact on the state’s mining sector.
“This initiative recognises the ongoing growth in global demand for many of the valuable mineral commodities we have here in NSW,” said.
“It also highlights the need for more mine approvals in NSW so we can play our role in meeting this global demand while also delivering economic benefits to regional communities.”
