The Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA) sets clear targets: by 2030, at least 10 % of EU demand should be covered by domestic extraction, 40 % by European processing and 25 % by recycling. But how can European mining – with stricter environmental requirements and higher costs – remain globally competitive?
From static models to real-time intelligence
Conventional mine planning is based on static resource models that lack the spatial resolution needed for optimal decisions. The EGARoh collaborative project PLING pursues a new approach: a mobile sensor platform captures data directly during the extraction process – using LIDAR, radar, hyperspectral cameras and XRF – and transforms this in real time into updated resource models and adaptive process control.
Ecology as part of planning
PLING integrates environmental monitoring directly into mining operations. Potential risks such as acid mine drainage are detected early and incorporated into mine planning – for a more sustainable and socially accepted form of mining.
One system, three raw materials
The platform is being tested in three real mines: gypsum in Hüttenheim, potash on the Werra, and lithium in Zinnwald – three raw materials with completely different geological conditions. The results are intended to be transferred into international standards such as the UNFC.