Minerals Research Institute of Western Australia

Minerals Research Institute of Western Australia Western Australian State Government Agency. Minerals Research Advancing WA.

The Minerals Research Institute of Western Australia is a statutory body established by the Western Australian Government under the Minerals Research Institute of Western Australia Act 2013 to stimulate minerals research to support investment in, and operation of, a globally competitive minerals industry in Western Australia.

Cathode Precursor Production Pilot Plant (C4P) - Stage 3 Stage 3 of the Cathode Precursor Production Pilot Plant (C4P), ...
04/09/2026

Cathode Precursor Production Pilot Plant (C4P) - Stage 3

Stage 3 of the Cathode Precursor Production Pilot Plant (C4P), an extension of research/capabilities established at Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO and Curtin University under the Future Batteries Industry Cooperative Research Centre (FBI-CRC), piloted production of precursor cathode active material (pCAM) to lower barriers to entry of a Western Australian battery materials industry.

Semi-batch and continuous modes were piloted. Certain feedstock impurities did not affect pCAM properties, indicating local feedstocks could treat impurity specifications as process-dependent variables rather than fixed constraints. Nickel, cobalt, manganese and aluminium (NCMA) pCAM was produced as an alternative to NCM. Ti-doped pCAM was tested to reduce degradation during cell cycling. Different core-shell chemistries were investigated to achieve higher energy density with improved structural stability. A theoretical model and a Scanning Electron Micrograph (SEM) image analysis tool were developed which, after further validation, have the potential to forecast pCAM product quality, optimise operating conditions and reduce experimental effort.

The project identified opportunities to simplify processing, reduce costs, and lower environmental impacts across the battery materials supply chain. Additionally, it further developed local capability.

To read more on the research findings of project M10569 visit our website: https://www.mriwa.wa.gov.au/news-and-events/cathode-precursor-production-pilot-plant-c4p-stage-3/

What does it take to replace some of mining's thirstiest diesel users with battery power? With support from the Minerals...
17/08/2026

What does it take to replace some of mining's thirstiest diesel users with battery power?

With support from the Minerals Research Institute of Western Australia, Electric Power Conversions Australia (EPCA), led by Clayton Franklin, has been helping answer that question through research on its prototype refitted E-777D battery-electric haul truck.

Haul trucks are the workhorses of the mining industry, and moving to fully electric power systems will require confidence they can perform reliably in the tough operating conditions experienced in Western Australia’s mines. How far can they travel? When do they need charging? How does heat and weather affect performance?

Through this project, EPCA developed a system that collects and analyses real-world operational data from its electric haul truck and uses machine learning to predict key performance measures. The team also built visualisation tools that help turn complex data into practical insights for operators.

The research demonstrated that these predictive models deliver operator-ready insight, and highlighted where additional data can improve performance, particularly in hot conditions and during partial charging events.

By helping mine operators better understand and manage electric haul trucks, the project is supporting the transition to lower-emissions mining while building Western Australia's expertise in advanced mining technology.

This is another important step towards a future where mining operations can reduce diesel use, lower emissions and make greater use of innovative Australian technology.

Learn more by downloading and reading the full project report from MRIWA’s website: https://www.mriwa.wa.gov.au/research-projects/project-portfolio/data-visualisation-and-machine-learning-for-truck-performance-prediction-and-analysis/

The Minerals Research Institute of Western Australia (MRIWA) is excited to announce the release of MRIWA Report 10587, d...
26/06/2026

The Minerals Research Institute of Western Australia (MRIWA) is excited to announce the release of MRIWA Report 10587, delivering a major step forward in how we map the geological framework of the Yilgarn Craton.

Led by geoscience researcher Yongjun Lu at RSC Global, this project applied advanced machine learning techniques to objectively classify and map the distribution of different granite types across the entire region – revealing previously unrecognised geological patterns and identifying areas prospective for granite-hosted commodities including gold, lithium and rare earth elements.

By improving targeting in areas beneath cover, this work helps reduce exploration risk, supporting more sustainable discovery in Western Australia.

To find out more, download report 10587 from our website: https://www.mriwa.wa.gov.au/research-projects/project-portfolio/machine-assisted-granite-mapping-in-the-archaean-yilgarn-craton/

MRIWA acknowledges the support of project sponsorship from the Geological Survey of Western Australia, SQM Australia and Terrain Minerals.

The Minerals Research Institute of Western Australia (MRIWA) is excited to announce the release of MRIWA Report 470a / G...
26/06/2026

The Minerals Research Institute of Western Australia (MRIWA) is excited to announce the release of MRIWA Report 470a / GSWA Report 267, delivering significant new insight into the exploration potential of one of Western Australia’s most prospective mineral regions.

Led by Professor Katy Evans at Curtin University and supported by MRIWA, GSWA and industry partners IGO, Independence Group, and Mark Creasy, this research reveals how the Fraser Zone in Western Australia’s south formed, and the processes that have controlled the development and distribution of its valuable Ni–Cu–Co mineral endowment.

Key outcomes from this study include:

• A new understanding of the region’s geological evolution;

• Improved models for how the Fraser Zone’s significant mineral endowment formed, and;

• Practical tools to enhance exploration targeting in the region.

These findings will help drive smarter exploration and support future mineral discoveries – boosting WA’s position as a global leader in critical minerals.

Find out more about this project on our website: https://www.mriwa.wa.gov.au/research-projects/project-portfolio/a-multi-scale-approach-to-controls-on-mineralization-in-the-fraser-zone-western-australia/

MRIWA-funded research at Curtin University is advancing mine planning through integrated optimisation across complex min...
26/06/2026

MRIWA-funded research at Curtin University is advancing mine planning through integrated optimisation across complex mining systems.

This project, led by Waqar Asad, with contributions from Erkan Topal and Ping Chang, delivers a new framework that improves economic value while reducing emissions and enhancing waste management outcomes.

By combining production scheduling and waste planning in a single model, the research demonstrates how data-driven approaches can unlock more sustainable, efficient mining operations in Western Australia.

To read the full report https://www.mriwa.wa.gov.au/research-projects/project-portfolio/sustainable-optimisation-of-mining-complexes-through-innovative-algorithms/

Western Australia’s remote mine sites face rising energy costs and increasing pressure to decarbonise. The Stationary Mi...
26/06/2026

Western Australia’s remote mine sites face rising energy costs and increasing pressure to decarbonise. The Stationary Mine Electrification project—supported by the Future Batteries Industries CRC and MRIWA—has taken a major step toward solving this challenge.

Researchers created high‑accuracy digital twin models of vanadium redox flow and sodium‑sulphur batteries, validated using real operational data from IGO Nova. They also developed advanced, model‑independent control algorithms capable of managing intermittent solar generation, variable mining loads, and the fast response needed to stabilise microgrids.

Testing confirmed that VRF systems effectively stabilise low‑voltage microgrids, while larger battery systems are required for MW‑scale mining operations.

The project equips WA’s mining sector with practical tools to integrate renewables, reduce grid dependence, and lower electricity costs. It also trained five PhD researchers, strengthening WA’s clean‑energy workforce and supporting the State’s transition to a low‑carbon future.

To find out more on our other recent research publications, visit the MRIWA website: https://www.mriwa.wa.gov.au/research-projects/project-portfolio/stationary-mine-electrification-fbi-crc-no-039/

Electrifying mining fleets is key to cutting emissions and boosting Australia’s mining competitiveness. MRIWA part funde...
17/06/2026

Electrifying mining fleets is key to cutting emissions and boosting Australia’s mining competitiveness.

MRIWA part funded the project Assessment, design and operation of battery-supported electric mining vehicles and machinery (FBI CRC No. 028) which was delivered through the FBICRC. While the CRC has now closed, its research remains highly valuable and is being carried forward through the Powering Australia Industry Growth Centre,.

A key finding: every mine needs a tailored electrification plan.

Later this year, an online free tool will be launched to help WA miners assess various fleet electrification strategies for low‑carbon fleets — strengthening the state’s position as a global supplier of iron ore, lithium and nickel.

To find out more about this project visit the MRIWA website: https://www.mriwa.wa.gov.au/research-projects/project-portfolio/assessment-design-and-operation-of-battery-supported-electric-mining-vehicles-and-machinery/

Celebrating a lasting legacy of innovation, collaboration and impact transforming maintenance in Western Australia’s res...
16/06/2026

Celebrating a lasting legacy of innovation, collaboration and impact transforming maintenance in Western Australia’s resources sector

Over seven years (2019–2025), the ARC Training Centre for Transforming Maintenance through Data Science (CTMTDS) brought together researchers from Curtin University, UWA, and CSIRO and leading industry partners Alcoa, BHP and Roy Hill to revolutionise how maintenance is delivered in the resources industry.

Through the application of cutting‑edge data science, the Centre delivered practical solutions to improve asset reliability, optimise decision‑making and reduce manual, repetitive processes across mining operations.

CTMTDS trained 12 industry‑ready PhD graduates and supported a cohort of early‑career researchers, creating a strong pipeline of research talent tackling the maintenance challenges of the Western Australian resources sector.

The Minerals Research Institute of Western Australia (MRIWA) is proud to have supported this landmark collaboration throughout its mission, helping translate research into real‑world outcomes that enhance productivity, safety and digital capability across the sector.

Read more on our website: https://www.mriwa.wa.gov.au/news-and-events/arc-industrial-transformation-training-centre-ittc-in-transforming-maintenance-through-data-science/

The Beneficiation and Chemical Processing of Lithium Minerals Project (FBICRC Project 030), lead by Dr Aleksandar Nikolo...
12/06/2026

The Beneficiation and Chemical Processing of Lithium Minerals Project (FBICRC Project 030), lead by Dr Aleksandar Nikoloski from Murdoch University, part‑funded by MRIWA and delivered under the FBICRC, has made significant progress in advancing Australia’s ability to convert lithium ore into value‑added lithium chemicals such as lithium hydroxide.

Running from February 2022 to June 2025, the project developed new and improved processes across comminution, beneficiation, lithium extraction, impurity removal, reagent recovery and process modelling. These innovations aim to improve yields, reduce processing costs and lower environmental impact.

Key achievements include:
Up to 20% reductions in comminution and calcination energy use.
Improved lithium liberation, flotation and calcination performance.
By‑product valorisation, including potassium sulfate for fertiliser.
New methods for producing battery‑grade lithium reagents with lower reagent consumption.

The project also contributed to industry collaboration, scientific advancement, sustainability leadership and workforce development — strengthening Australia’s position as a sustainable, technologically advanced supplier of lithium materials.

To find out more on our other projects, visit the MRIWA website: https://www.mriwa.wa.gov.au/research-projects/project-portfolio/

Developing reliable, long‑duration energy storage is essential for Australia’s clean energy future — and the Development...
11/06/2026

Developing reliable, long‑duration energy storage is essential for Australia’s clean energy future — and the Development of Vanadium Electrolytes Project (FBI CRC Project 038) has delivered important progress toward that goal.

Lead by Dr Aleksandar Naum Nikoloski from Murdoch University and part‑funded by MRIWA, the project advanced new electrolyte chemistries and production pathways for vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFBs) and the impact of impurities and additives. A major breakthrough was demonstrating the feasibility of producing vanadium electrolyte directly from ore concentrate, bypassing the traditional V₂O₅ route. This approach shows strong potential for large‑scale, impurity‑free and more cost‑effective electrolyte production.

Researchers also explored iron‑ and manganese‑based flow battery systems to improve energy density and reduce costs. While challenges such as species decomposition and ionic crossover were identified, the work revealed opportunities for improved stability and partial capacity recovery, especially with enhanced electrochemical conditions.

The findings highlight the need for advanced membrane materials to limit crossover and stabilise redox species — a key step toward more durable, efficient and commercially viable flow battery technologies.

This research strengthens Australia’s capability in sustainable, long‑duration energy storage and supports future innovation across the battery value chain.

To find out more on our other projects, visit the MRIWA website: https://www.mriwa.wa.gov.au/research-projects/project-portfolio/

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