Chemical technology group BASF has opened a global mining research and development centre at the Australian Minerals Research Centre (AMRC) in Perth, Western Australia. At the new facility, BASF scientists will study specific innovation needs for mineral processing and metal production, to help reduce energy and reuse water at mines in Australia and around the world.

Speaking at the official opening, Australian Minister for Resources and Energy, Martin Ferguson, said that Australian mining relies on technological innovation to drive improved productivity. “Chemistry is a key enabler to making tomorrow’s mining industry more sustainable,” said Martin Brudermueller, Vice Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF SE. “With the latest advances in mining solutions research, BASF aims to help mining operations to minimise water consumption, maximise recovery, reduce land areas consumed by tailings disposal and minimise the cost and time required to rehabilitate sites.”

The AMRC site is part of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Australia’s national science agency and one of the largest and most diverse research agencies in the world. With a team of six advanced material researchers at the BASF center by the end of 2012 and about 20 researchers over the next five years, focus topics will include advanced rheology modifiers for the improvement of the thickening process for valuables and tailings, as well as modification of the crystallisation process in alumina production.

“High quality ores are becoming depleted and new mines are often in hostile locations while environmental, health and safety regulations are becoming more stringent. BASF aims to help the industry face these challenges with solutions across our customers’ value chain. This new research and development centre will further develop our expertise in areas, which are crucial to meeting future needs,” said Steffen Kudis, Head of BASF’s Global Oilfield and Mining Solutions businesses.