National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC) has opened its new research and development (R&D) centre in Patancheru, Hyderabad. The centre will advance innovation in mineral processing and sustainable steel technology.

The Navratna company has made strategic investments of over Rs 150 crore in research and development in the past five years and Rs 50 crore towards building this centre. It boasts an array of sophisticated instruments, including an automated mineral analyser and an automated fusion bead-based X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyser, ensuring precise and efficient characterisation of various minerals.

The new facility, which spans an eight-acre plot in Patancheru, is a step towards driving the digital transformation, while committing to responsible mining by building a sustainable ecosystem at its core. The R&D Centre houses cutting-edge laboratories manned by experts which foster innovation in sustainable mineral technology and ore beneficiation.

The Centre features a dedicated facility for pelletisation studies, which will generate crucial data for the installation of commercial pellet plants. This will enhance NMDC’s in-house requirements and capabilities, and offer valuable insights into mineral processing and pellet production.

One of the unique aspects is the hydrogen reduction facility, integrated with a microwave-assisted heating furnace. This innovative setup will play a vital role in developing green steel-making technologies,while aligning with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions. Equipped with the latest technology and infrastructure, the Centre is an expert in mineralogy, elemental analysis, bulk materials handling and storage, mineral processing. At the forefront of innovation, the Centre will be a hub for collaborative activities with leading academic institutions and industry experts.