New Technology Could Use Cosmic Rays to Discover Mineral Deposits More Efficiently

A new mineral exploration technology built on the research of UBC physicist Douglas Bryman has received $1.8 million in proof of concept funding from Western Economic Diversification.

The technology, muon geotomography, relies on the detection of cosmic ray particles deep within the earth to create three-dimensional 'pictures' of dense ore deposits. The technology could increase the success of exploration while at the same time making it less expensive and reduce its environmental impact.

"The underground muon sensor system is able to detect and differentiate regions of high density, from which 3D images can be created of potentially valuable ore," says Bryman, the JB Warren Chair at the University of British Columbia Department of Physics and Astronomy.

The technology is being developed by Advanced Applied Physics Solutions (AAPS), a Centre of Excellence for Commercialization and Research funded under the federal Networks of Centres of Excellence program. AAPS is the commercialization partner of TRIUMF, Canada's national laboratory for nuclear and particle physics.

"Mining is a major contributor to our resource-based economy. By investing in this project, our Government is ensuring that our key sectors develop the tools necessary to grow and provide highly-skilled jobs for Canadians," said the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, in announcing the funding.

"Our Government will continue to do its part to help build a more globally competitive and productive mining sector."

AAPS is completing first round proof-of-principle tests in collaboration with NVI-Breakwater at its Myra Falls mining operations on Vancouver Island, as well with TRIUMF, university partners, the Geological Survey of Canada and BC Ministry of Energy and Mines.   

Further tests will validate that the technology can be used to explore a broad range of mineral deposits. The initial tests identified massive sulfide deposits at Mt. Myra--a major source of zinc, copper, lead, gold and silver. Due to high minerals prices, both types of deposits are being actively explored by Canadian mining companies throughout North and South America as well as Africa and Asia.