Extractive Rock & Minerals

Our META workflow approach is appropriate to all applications providing high resolution cross validated analytical data for the characterisation of mineralogical, elemental and textural attributes all consolidated in bespoke analytical platform (Spotfire®). Mineralogical data are acquired using QXRD, automated mineralogy (SEM-AMICS), Raman, FTIR. Elemental data are acquired by ICP-OES, ICP-MS, LA-ICP-MS, WD-XRF, ED-XRF, LIBS. A variety of sample preparation methods are available including fusion, 4 acid digestion, pellet, direct spot or particle or non-destructive analysis depending on the application. Textural characterisation is achieved using laser particle size (LPSA), automated mineralogy via SEM and Raman imaging. We recommend that new applications are assessed using the full META workflow, to highlight the most appropriate technology for the application followed by a recommended optimised bespoke META deployment workflow. All META data can be captured, modelled and monitored in our bespoke data dashboard (built in Spotfire).  

X-ray Mineral Services is equipped with a comprehensive suite of portable analysers for mineralogy (FTIR) and for elemental data (XRF and LIBS) which extends our analytical capability out of the laboratory and into the field. The META2 capability has been deployed to characterise borehole cuttings and cores in real time to optimise quarry extension work and minimise environmental impact, or to assess CRMs in mineral processing whilst reducing costs by limiting the need to drill additional boreholes. 

X-ray Mineral Services has considerable experience in characterising mining raw materials and processing concentrates. Since the Hafren acquisition, X-ray Mineral Services has invested heavily in this sector. We recently supported the Geological Survey of Finland (GTK) in a 22 M€ Business Finland initiative, led by Aalto University, involving research into the Circular Economy of Battery Metals – “BATCircle”. The key objective of the BATCircle project is to find ways of adding value to the battery metals sector. Our META workflows were deployed to characterise mineral concentrates during mineral refining processes. We now have a MoU with GTK and we our currently involved in new CRM and waste characterisation and ethical sourcing initiatives. Our META workflows have also been deployed to investigate new Li, P and REE mine prospects, and we have also developed new methods to for spodumene processing.

X-ray Mineral Services are developing new analytical workflows that will allow us to become a world-leading centre of excellence to grade raw materials and process control products in battery mineral exploration and battery material production.