An upgraded spectral scanner is set to accelerate resource discovery and reduce exploration risks in Western Australia.
The HyLogger 4 system captures high-resolution data from drill core samples, giving users a faster way to analyse geology and better target resources.
The system can identify the spectra of many mineral groups, if present in appreciable amounts within a given sample. Measurements are made using non-destructive visible and infrared light transmitted and reflected from the sample surface.
The next-generation system builds on the legacy of the HyLogger 3 system, which had analysed more than 600,000m of drill core since being first commissioned in 2009. The HyLogger 4 will be managed by the newly-formed Department of Mines, Petroleum and Exploration and located at the Perth Core Library.
The advanced HyLogger system was developed by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, with additional funding from the WA Government. Perth-based company Corescan has been involved in the commercialisation of the technology.
Mines and Petroleum Minister David Michael said the investments would lead to accelerated exploration, creating regional jobs and supporting critical mineral supply chains for the global energy transition.
“The HyLogger upgrade strengthens our ability to deliver the pre-competitive data industry relies on to plan exploration programs and reduce risk,” he said.
“It is pleasing to see Perth-based businesses like Corescan driving innovation in our resources sector, helping to make Western Australia an investment destination of choice.”