AI-driven core scanning aims to speed exploration decisions

Artificial intelligence and high-resolution data can transform mineral exploration

Mining companies have long relied on laboratory assays that can take weeks to return results, delaying key exploration and development decisions. New technologies combining advanced sensors and artificial intelligence (AI) aim to shorten that timeline dramatically.

The Canadian Mining Journal, spoke with Grant Sanden (GS), CEO of GeologicAI, about how AI-powered core scanning and digital geological analysis could accelerate exploration, improve resource modelling, and help miners better understand risk earlier in a project’s life cycle. Sanden explains how GeologicAI’s technology can scan drill core using multiple sensors to capture information on elements, molecules, structure, and texture. The data is then processed by AI algorithms to generate high-resolution insights in near real time — potentially reducing turnaround times from weeks to hours.

Recently, GeologicAI announced a strategic partnership and investment in Edge Copper, formerly known as Plata Latina. The collaboration focuses on advancing Edge Copper’s recently acquired Zonia copper project in Arizona.

This conversation covers the following topics:

• How AI-driven core scanning can speed exploration decisions.

• Why faster geological data improves project economics and reduces risk.

• How digital core logging enables remote geological analysis.

The role of AI in improving sustainability and reducing waste in mining.

How advanced geological modelling could reshape the future of mining and critical mineral development.

With growing global demand for critical minerals and increasing pressure to accelerate project timelines, technologies like AI-assisted geological analysis may play a key role in the next generation of mining projects.

Below are edited excerpts from the interview.

CMJ: Mining decisions often rely on lab results that can take six to 10 weeks. How does GeologicAI’s AI-powered core scanning change decision-making when capital risk is highest?

GS: The value of secondary information in core and rock scanning is very high because we now have systems that can consume it. We scan rocks using a comprehensive suite of sensors that collect elements, molecules, structure, and texture.

That information feeds into artificially intelligent algorithms that predict the properties of the rock in near real time. We aim to turn around results within about 24 hours with compute on site.

The information goes into a decision engine that integrates site data, helping companies optimize mapping, resource acceleration and deposit simulation while quantifying uncertainty.

CMJ: GeologicAI says its technology allows mining companies to log core up to four times faster and receive results within 48 hours. What practical impact does that speed have?

GS: There are two main advantages — speed and digital access. Because the data is digital, core can be logged remotely. We operate a remote logging operation in Santiago and benchmark the people doing the work.

Faster logging also means more consistent logging. It is standardized, easy to review, and centralized. Companies can analyze digital data first and then focus their field visits on areas where additional testing or expert interpretation is required.

CMJ: With rising demand for critical minerals and pressure to meet sustainability standards, how can GeologicAI help miners unlock more metal while generating less waste?

GS: It is about operating in a new world of speed and high-resolution information. Faster decisions improve capital efficiency and accelerate project timelines.

For example, the average copper deposit takes about 17 years to move from discovery to mine. Our technology helps accelerate early-stage work by scanning rocks, computing resources, and automating geoscience steps so companies can reach pre-feasibility faster.

It also helps identify contaminants or deleterious elements earlier, which allows companies to make decisions that reduce environmental impacts and energy use in processing.

CMJ: Mining has traditionally been cautious about adopting new technologies. Are attitudes toward AI-driven approaches changing?

GS: Like any new technology, there is a hype cycle. But we are entering the value phase of AI now. We have scanned more than two million metres of core and currently scan more than a million metres a year — about three kilometres a day across our operations.

Companies are starting to see real value from the data. Adoption takes time because mining operations are complex, and change management is difficult, but the industry is moving in that direction.

CMJ: Governments are promoting critical mineral development. Could that help accelerate adoption of technologies like this?

GS: Ultimately, the mines make the decisions, but the world is increasingly focused on critical minerals because of the clean energy transition and the growth of AI infrastructure, both of which require large amounts of metals and energy.

Governments are working to secure supply and improve efficiency. AI tools can help with early-stage resource assessment, so companies understand their resources earlier and focus development on the highest-quality deposits.

CMJ: Looking ahead, how will AI and advanced geological modelling reshape the future of mining?

GS: AI will empower people to make much better assessments of their resources much earlier. The experts will still be the geoscientists and engineers building the models and science. AI acts like an exoskeleton for those workflows, helping teams produce better scientific analysis and more optimized mining plans. For companies, that ultimately improves portfolio management, risk assessment, and execution across mining projects.

Watch a full video of the interview here:
https://youtu.be/LcYpDj-vKs4?si=MuLXbw_ASYBqL5Bi

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