Tag Archives: Juan Smith

SGS tackles critical mineral testing, pathfinder analysis with new automated pXRF solution

Automation, Base metals, Energy minerals, Environmental, Mineral exploration, Mining services, Mining software, Sustainable mining, , , , , ,

SGS, a leading testing, inspection and certification company, has unveiled Automated pXRF (Portable X-ray Fluorescence) technology to, it says, further support its clients in unlocking future-focused solutions.

Designed and developed by SGS and Evident, this solution marks a significant leap forward from the conventional, manual XRF process or the in-field pXRF service, SGS claims.

The current method of manual XRF analysis requires dedicated operators to load and unload each powder rock sample individually. SGS’s Automated pXRF technology introduces a mechanised solution that streamlines the entire process. This innovation provides a more stable and reliable environment and allows operators to load up to 20 sample trays, improving efficiency of the analysis, according to the company. The new design and capability reduces turnaround time and analysis costs, expediting the delivery of critical insights for geological modelling.

The Automated pXRF system also increases the quality and consistency of sample measurement with high accuracy and repeatability, while reducing human error associated with manual loading and operator involvement during analysis. This advancement improves data reliability and enhances decision making for businesses reliant on precise analysis across critical mineral analysis and gold and lithium pathfinders.

Juan Smith, General Manager of Natural Resources Australia, and Regional Geochem Manager for Southeast Asia Pacific, said: “Our clients are constantly looking at which technologies can deliver better and faster results, and automated pXRF will be a game changer. This innovation aligns seamlessly with our dedication to providing industry-leading solutions that redefine standards. The Automated pXRF system reflects SGS’s unwavering commitment to efficiency, accuracy and safety, ultimately benefiting our clients and the environment.”

SGS said the unveiling of SGS’s Automated pXRF technology is poised to “reshape” critical mineral and pathfinder analysis, setting new benchmarks for efficiency, quality and safety.

SGS in Australia is already providing the service to several Tier One mining companies, ensuring bespoke solutions for each client, it says.

The company concluded: “With its capability to process a high volume of samples while reducing costs and enhancing data reliability, SGS continues to lead the way in technological advancements within the TIC industry.”

SGS adds Chrysos PhotonAssay services to Australian Minerals Regional Hub

Environmental, Metallurgy, Mineral exploration, Mining services, , , , , , ,

SGS says it is expanding its service delivery in obtaining Chrysos PhotonAssay™ technology as an alternative to traditional fire assay procedures.

The two companies – SGS and Chrysos – have reached an agreement to install a PhotonAssay unit at SGS’s Australian Minerals Regional Hub in Perth, Western Australia.

PhotonAssay provides enhanced analysis of gold, silver and complementary elements in as little as two minutes, improving turnaround time, SGS said.

“SGS is at the forefront of innovation excellence in the minerals and mining sectors with leading automation across FTIR, pXRF, NIR and now PhotonAssay, which will support mining and exploration customers with faster, safer and more environmentally friendly analysis,” SGS said.

Chrysos Corporation Chief Executive, Dirk Treasure, said: “Chrysos is excited to be working with the SGS team. The installation of this new PhotonAssay unit at their cutting-edge facility in Perth reflects the desire of both organisations to deliver unparalleled levels of customer service through faster, safer and more sustainable assaying technologies.”

Hitting samples with high-energy X-rays, Chrysos PhotonAssay causes excitation of atomic nuclei allowing rapid and enhanced analysis of gold, silver and complementary elements. Importantly, the non-destructive process allows large samples of up to 500 g to be measured and provides a “true” bulk reading independent of the chemical or physical form of the sample, the companies said. The technology is also measurably safer and more environmentally friendly than previous assay processes, aligning with SGS’s core principle of achieving a better, safer, and more interconnected world, SGS said.

Derick Govender, Executive Vice President, Natural Resources, SGS, said: “As the leading testing, inspection, and certification service provider to the mining industry globally, SGS continues to seek new, innovative and sustainable solutions to further enhance our services to our customers. In adopting Chrysos PhotonAssay technology at our Perth facility, SGS will continue to work on further deployments of this technology within our global network. Our team’s technical expertise and insight into our customer`s value chain end-to-end is one of our key advantages that allows us to develop innovative solutions.”

Chrysos Corp has already worked with MinAnalytical, MSALABS and Intertek on deploying PhotonAssay units at labs.