CNA’s Hyperspectral Scanning Unit Promotes Sustainable Mining Operations
From Springboard Content Lab
College of the North Atlantic (CNA) continues to lead the way in advanced imaging technology and sustainable mining operations in Newfoundland and Labrador. The Hyperspectral Scanning Unit (HSU) is at the forefront of this innovation, now with even more remarkable achievements.
Advanced Imaging Technology
CNA’s HSU boasts some of the most advanced imaging technology on the planet, making it a game-changer for the mining industry. The unit has conducted the largest public geoscience hyperspectral imaging initiative in the Western Hemisphere, scanning over 310 kilometers of drill core. This project has not only advanced geoscience but also created numerous high-tech jobs and provided invaluable training for students and professionals. The project has already engaged 31 different mining companies across NL and Canada, supporting their operations and exploration programs.
New Focus on Critical Minerals
As CNA enters the second phase of its hyperspectral scanning project, the focus has shifted exclusively to uncovering the critical mineral wealth of Newfoundland and Labrador. This effort aims to identify previously undiscovered deposits, enhancing the province’s role in the transition to a greener economy.
“Excellent data… we have identified a number of areas for additional sampling and greatly appreciate all the hard work by the CNA team on this massive undertaking. This has made it very easy to quickly review core that would otherwise be inaccessible and pick-up on the spectral signature of the alteration patterns that the historical workers may not have fully appreciated.”
– Industry Mining Partner
Milestone Achievements
In March 2023, CNA made history by hosting a half-day session on hyperspectral imaging applications at the world’s largest mining conference in Toronto. This was the first time in the 100-year history of the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) conference that a college led such a session, showcasing CNA’s pioneering role in the industry.
Legacy and Preservation
CNA’s efforts are not just about current advancements but also preserving data for future generations. The hyperspectral scanning of drill cores, including some of the oldest in the country, ensures that valuable geological data is digitized and saved, providing a “forever” database that can be re-interrogated and analyzed for years to come. To date, 15% of the province’s drill core has been scanned, totaling over 200 kilometers.
Global to Local Impact
While HSU’s technology has a global reach, its local impact is profound. The unit has been instrumental in projects across Canada, including Northern Ontario, and continues to support Newfoundland and Labrador’s mining sector by making it lighter, greener, faster, and more efficient.
Economic and Educational Impact
The project has employed dozens of students and professionals, fostering job creation and high-tech skills development. The College of the North Atlantic’s Hyperspectral Scanning Unit is a beacon of innovation and sustainability in mining. By leveraging cutting-edge technology and fostering strong industry partnerships, CNA is paving the way for a more sustainable and prosperous future in mineral exploration and extraction.
Springboard Atlantic is a network of 19 colleges and universities specializing in research commercialization and industry-led research in Atlantic Canada. It is supported by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency , Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada and member institutions.