Rio to Open New Mining Research Centre

Mining giant Rio Tinto has joined forces with Australia's Curtin University to develop a mining and research development centre, part of a drive to automate its mining operations.

The A$10.5m Mining and Sensing Centre in Western Australia will focus on the use of sensors and new materials applied to open pit and underground mining, says Rio.

"The centre will involve collaboration with key research areas across the University and will include partnerships with a range of highly respected international research institutes," says Curtin Vice Chancellor Professor Jeanette Hacket.

Scientists at the centre will work with the Rio Tinto Centre for Mine Automation through its A$21m partnership with the University of Sydney.

By Ozge Ibrahim