Mapping historical waste rock piles for untapped resources
Recovering valuable materials from historical mining waste can reduce the need for new extraction and at the same time support sustainability. The XTRACT project develops and tests innovative microinvasive technologies to assess stockpiles and tailings, unlocking overlooked resources and minimising environmental impact.
Within XTRACT, Muon Solutions is developing a borehole muon detector system to map the density distributions of waste rock piles and tailings. This automated technology helps identify previously untapped raw materials, supporting the recovery of strategic metals from mining residues. Our work contributes to more efficient resource utilisation, reducing waste and supporting Europe’s transition to sustainable mining practices.
Our detectors will be tested at a site with extensive mining waste deposits in Portugal. By integrating muographic imaging into resource recovery, we help refine sustainable mining strategies while reducing environmental impact.
- Project duration: 2023-2026
- Funding scheme: Horizon Europe
Read more: XTRACT website
