New geochemical analysis technologies are bringing transformative improvements to mining operations. These technologies focus on greater sustainability, precision, and operational efficiency in the sector. Companies like Veracio are leading the way by offering integrated solutions that enhance the discovery, measurement, and processing of mineral resources. This article discusses the importance of geochemical analysis in mining, the complex challenges involved, the limitations of traditional approaches, and how new technologies aim to make mining more effective and environmentally friendly.
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The Role of Geochemical Analysis in Mining
Geochemical analysis is a group of techniques used in mining and exploration to determine the chemical composition of rocks, minerals, soils, and fluids. In practice, geochemical data informs mapping of ore bodies, guides drilling campaigns, and improves resource estimates.
By precisely characterizing minerals, mining companies can better assess the economic viability of deposits and optimize extraction strategies for valuable metals like copper, gold, and rare earths.
The process typically involves collecting physical samples to analyze element concentrations and mineral content. In recent years, advanced analytical hardware and software have expedited these workflows and brought new capabilities for field use and laboratory-based studies.?1,2
Complexities of Geochemical Analysis in Mining
The process of geochemical analysis in mining is inherently complex. Samples are taken from drill cores, outcrops, soils, and groundwater bodies, each presenting its own challenges in terms of preparation, contamination risk, and representativity.
Traditional workflows require extensive manual handling, time-consuming lab operations, and intricate data management. High variability in mineralogy across drill sites and ore zones means that comprehensive characterization demands high sampling resolution and careful calibration of instruments. Furthermore, real-time decision-making in the field is hampered by delays in sample transport and analysis, a barrier that has often forced companies to rely on conservative or less precise strategies to avoid costly mistakes.1,3,4,5
Traditional Unsustainability in Geochemical Analysis
Historically, geochemical analysis has been resource-intensive and raised several environmental concerns. Large quantities of chemical reagents, including strong acids, are used for sample digestion, which results in hazardous waste streams.
Transporting samples to central laboratories increases energy use and carbon emissions. Lengthy turnaround times for results can disrupt drilling schedules and lead to increased land disturbance. Similarly, manual data transcription and sorting can introduce human error, compounding the risk of unusable or misleading results. These factors collectively hinder sustainability, making mining operations more costly and environmentally impactful than they need to be.?3,4,5
Veracio’s Innovations in Geochemical Analysis
Veracio has developed a suite of advanced technologies that overhaul the geochemical analysis process in mining. The company’s capabilities are centered on real-time scanning systems, such as TruScan and Scan by Veracio, which combine rugged field-ready hardware, automation, cloud-based platforms, and integrated software to deliver instant, precise geochemical data at the point of sampling.?6,7,8
A key feature of Veracio's system is its use of X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and hyperspectral analysis. These non-destructive methods enable direct mineral characterization without sending samples to off-site laboratories. Automated core scanning devices are used on-site to capture high-resolution images and elemental data, which are then uploaded directly to cloud systems for immediate review by geology teams.6,7
TruScan, Veracio’s proprietary platform, utilizes artificial intelligence (AI) to interpret compositional data, recognize lithological patterns, and discriminate ore zones with increased accuracy. With the integration of machine learning (ML) algorithms, the system can also predict mineralization and hydrothermal alteration, leading to improved decision-making in drilling operations.6,7
Sustainability Advantages of Veracio’s Technology
Veracio's approach offers significant sustainability benefits. By generating real-time data, field teams can focus on high-potential areas, reducing unnecessary drilling and sample collection while helping to preserve local ecosystems.
The use of non-destructive scanning methods eliminates the need for chemical reagents and the hazardous waste they produce, resulting in improved safety and a lower environmental impact. Automation reduces human errors, speeds up decision-making, and increases transparency in resource management.?6,7,9
Cloud-based data integration further enables smooth transfer and long-term availability of geological information, strengthening project governance and regulatory compliance. By rapidly delivering reliable, precise, and impartial datasets, Veracio’s solutions help mining operations run more efficiently and with greater resource awareness, providing a strong basis for sustainable growth across the industry.6,7,8
Continuing Advancement and Application in Mining
The future trajectory of geochemical analysis technologies is shaped by continued improvement in automation, data analytics, and field adaptability. Veracio’s platforms allow mining companies to optimize exploration and production by facilitating precise subsurface mapping and real-time feedback loops between sampling, analysis, and operational strategy. These capabilities directly support risk reduction, cost containment, and improved resource recovery rates.?6-9
Strategic partnerships between mining operators and technology providers can now include collaborative data sharing, AI-driven predictive modeling, and adaptive automation tuned to site-specific geological conditions. As more companies adopt these solutions, improved efficiency and sustainability practices are being driven across the industry.?10
Other Emerging and Similar Technologies
Several other companies and research groups are pioneering advancements in geochemical analysis. Innovations such as drill-core scanning using hyperspectral imaging, biogeochemical vector mapping (including the use of plant and lichen bioindicators), and isotope-based mineral fingerprinting are helping industry stakeholders achieve greater environmental and operational oversight.
Technologies such as portable XRF, cloud analytics, and automated elemental mapping are also gaining traction in field applications. For example, Minalyze (acquired by Veracio) offers integrated scanning solutions that complement Veracio’s own platforms, broadening the analytic landscape in exploration and resource development.?1,3,6,10
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Recent academic reviews highlight the role of automated scanning in promoting geology-led knowledge generation and reducing uncertainties in resource estimation. These advancements enable multi-scale modeling to connect local and regional resource prospectivity. Continuous improvements in AI algorithms for mineralogy and geochemical prediction further establish these technologies as vital tools for sustainable exploration and mining.1,6
The Future of Geochemical Analysis Technologies
Integrating AI, automation, and real-time analytics into geochemical workflows will continue to disrupt how mining companies plan, execute, and monitor their operations.
Data-rich platforms developed by teams such as Veracio’s can support industry goals, including decarbonization, waste reduction, and responsible land management. Researchers are also improving geochemical tracking methods in waste remediation and post-mining restoration, enabling more effective monitoring of environmental impacts over time.1,3,6
As resource demand increases, enhanced geochemical mapping and sample targeting can make previously uneconomic deposits viable with minimal environmental impact. Automated scanning and digital analysis will be essential for meeting regulatory and public expectations for responsible mining. The success of platforms developed by Veracio, which utilize AI, machine learning, and real-time analysis, demonstrates that advanced geochemical technologies are central to the emergence of more sustainable mining practices globally.1,3,6
References and Further Reading
- Grunsky, E. C. et al. (2019). State-of-the-art analysis of geochemical data for mineral exploration. Geochemistry: Exploration, Environment, Analysis, 20(2), 217–232. DOI:10.1144/geochem2019-031. https://www.lyellcollection.org/doi/full/10.1144/geochem2019-031
- García, S. et al. (2024). The importance of geochemical and mineralogical characterization of fresh Cu-Porphyry mine tailings in mineral processing plants to optimize their revalorization potential. Journal of Geochemical Exploration, 259, 107439. DOI:10.1016/j.gexplo.2024.107439. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0375674224000554
- Parviainen, A. et al. (2025). Geochemical processes related to mined, milled, or natural metal deposits in a rapidly changing global environment. Geochemistry: Exploration, Environment, Analysis. DOI:10.1144/geochem2024-062. https://www.lyellcollection.org/doi/full/10.1144/geochem2024-062
- Balaram, V., & Subramanyam, K. (2022). Sample preparation for geochemical analysis: Strategies and significance. Advances in Sample Preparation, 1, 100010. DOI:10.1016/j.sampre.2022.100010. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2772582022000079
- Methods for Geochemical Analysis. US Geological Survey Bulletin. https://pubs.usgs.gov/bul/1770/report.pdf
- Harris, A. C. et al. (2024). Empowering Geologists in the Exploration Process— Maximizing Data Use from Enabling Scanning Technologies. SEG Discovery, (136), 17–31. DOI:10.5382/segnews.2024-136.fea-01. https://www.veracio.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/GeologistsDataScanning_VCOpaper_Digital.pdf
- Bentham, J. (2024). Veracio: AI-based technologies are transforming the analysis of mineral deposits. Global Mining Review. https://www.globalminingreview.com/mining/25112024/veracio-ai-based-technologies-are-transforming-the-analysis-of-mineral-deposits/
- Veracio unveil “Scan by Veracio” at Expomin 2025. (2025). International Mining. https://im-mining.com/2025/04/29/veracio-unveil-scan-by-veracio-at-expomin-2025/
- Quesnel, J. (2025). A major transformation in mining: The impact of continuous geochemical scanning. Veracio. https://www.veracio.com/major-transformation-in-mining/
- Veracio unveils plans to revolutionise orebody knowledge. (2024). AusIMM. https://www.ausimm.com/conferences-and-events/mining-geology/news/Veracio-to-revolutionise-orebody-knowledge/
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