It’s a well know fact that large discoveries in base metals are becoming more and more scarce. As the years go by it’s becoming increasingly difficult to identify deposits through the traditional methods of outcropping and drilling. With the demand for base and precious metals on the rise, it is imperative that miners use all the tools available to them when exploring new properties. New technologies have emerged as exploration becomes more tasking and some have become staples in the junior mining sector and are re-shaping the way we are analyzing geophysical and multi spectral data.
The most commonly used technologies are Airborn EM and MAG testing. Airborne geophysical surveys produce 2D and 3D representations of the surface and subsurface. They also produce additional data supplementing other available information in order to support descriptions and develop a better understanding of the subsurface. Some applications include but aren’t limited to planning, water and materials resources, geothermal energy, underground storage and developing a better geological understanding in general. Depending on the methods used, airborne geophysics can produce information from the surface down to a depth of several kilometers, making this a very effective tool for exploration. The data collected from geophysical surveys can be analyzed to draw meaningful conclusions when trying to identify drilling targets.
In the 1960’s Gravimeters and gravitational wave sensors which detect fluctuations in the gravitational field hit the market. Analyzing the spectral density and the time-frequency localization of any signal became more important in applications such as oil exploration and seismography. Today, High Definition Gravity Gradiometer surveys are among the newest geophysical tools that are being utilized to identify targets which may have been overlooked in the past.
A newer technology being used is LWIR surveying, otherwise known as Thermal imaging. This technology uses satellite imagery to uncover targets through vegetation, ground cover and can identify mineralized areas up to two feet deep. It is limited in that it cannot penetrate the surface as well as some other technologies available today, however it is another tool that can be utilized in an effort to become more efficient in the exploration process.
These technologies have altered the nature in which exploration is being carried out and have already proven their value. However, even with these widely available geophysical technologies there are still challenges to overcome in identifying drilling targets. One of the largest hurdles, is compiling all the available data and making sense of the information. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data mining can compile all the information presently available such as: geophysical data, geochemistry data, topography, satellite multi spectral data and other sources like historical data in order to learn the digital signature of previously identified targets. This process then allows them to use those signatures to identify similar targets of interest. Much like MAG and Gravity testing, AI will be a sought after tool in and is the next step in the evolution of exploration and Albert Mining is the leader in this space.
Originally, The Company “DIAGNOS” was focused on the mining sector until they found great success in the detection of critical health issues through the use of their AI tool, CARA (Computer Assisted Retina Analysis). However, They recognized the value that “CARDS” (Computer Aided Resource Detection Software) brought to the mining sector and opted to spin out Albert Mining to focus on developing the technology and the relationships they had already built. Now that Albert Mining is operating as its own entity, they have altered the revenue model and re-focused, which has already attracted a new strategic investor and new Chairman Dinesh Kandanchatha. For those of you who aren’t familiar with Dinesh, he recently stepped down from Patriot one after a very successful run with the company.
Since I first came across Albert mining last spring I have watched intently knowing that it was only a matter of time before AI stepped into the spotlight and brought fresh eyes to the sector. Recently there has been a buzz with the listing of Goldspot and it’s no surprise that Dinesh Kandanchatha has taken an interest in this exciting field. He brings an entirely new dynamic to the Albert Mining team and with his experience and relationships, he could take this company to the next level. Dinesh is an entrepreneur with an impressive track record of building up companies and creating shareholder value.
I have learned a lot in the last few months while covering Albert Mining. Having had the opportunity to sit down with the likes of Pierre Gautier, Ron Perry, Andre Larente, Michel Fontaine, Vance White and the technical team at Albert Mining. Each person I met had a unique angle but had one thing in common, their belief in the technology was unanimous. Exposure to the company and hearing the testimonials of people in and around this project has given me confidence that there is a very bright future ahead for Albert Mining and the technology they possess. I would like to share a few quotes from these gentlemen that I have met in the last few weeks…
Pierre Gauthier Artificial Intelligence in the Mining Sector (Video Link)
“If your a CEO of an exploration company and your not using AI, you should be fired“
Ron Perry The dawn of AI in Mining (Video Link)
“Pretty amazing technology, good to follow up as its a geologists tool” and “This tool is here to assist and not replace geologists“
Andre Larente Expansion of AI in the Marketplace (Video Link)
“We are able to identify targets very quickly“
“We can reduce the size of the property” from an exploration perspective
Vance White
“It’s a big assist to the geophysicists with regards to compiling data“
Michel Fontaine
“I think the biggest challenge facing exploration is the overburden and our technology can find targets under swamps and other ground cover where outcrops are not visible”
The people who have experience with this technology see great value in the product and were happy to endorse the company. Recently, the junior mining market hasn’t been kind to its investors and in turn has made raising capital for junior mining companies very difficult. Using a tool like the CARDS system can narrow down your drilling targets to very select locations and drastically reduce exploration costs.
Albert Mining has a new business model which they will be applying to future contracts where-by, they will take a position in the company they are working with and potentially sign royalty agreements on future reserves. In return, they will get a service contract to run the CARDS system and help to unlock the true value of the properties they are themselves invested in. This will not only strengthen relationships with their partners but will add shareholder value with every new contract. Artificial Intelligence is the future of exploration and Albert Mining has the experience to drive this innovation forward.
Disclosure: Albert mining is a client of Insidexploration and this is a paid service. The views expressed in this publication and on Insidexploration’s website do not necessarily reflect the views of Albert Mining and are the thoughts and opinions of Insidexploration. This Article contains forward looking statements and is for informational purposes only. This article is not investment advise, please do your own Due Diligence and seek investing advice from a licensed financial advisor prior to making any investment decisions.
Solid article. Well done. Dinesh saw the opportunity early and his involvement is indicative of big potential. I remember PAT in the early stages and hearing people scoff at the idea of gun detecting.. it was at 15 cent sp. It hit $3 as it gained traction. I see the same thing happening here.