New Adelaide laboratory expands SGS support for Mining and Resources Industries

Q&A: Why does sample preparation location matter for exploration programs? 

SGS recently announced a new geochemistry facility in Adelaide. We spoke with Juan Smith, General Manager, Natural Resources, SGS Australia, about the operational challenges the facility is designed to address and what it may mean for exploration workflows across Australia.  

What challenges are mining and exploration companies facing when it comes to sample preparation? 

As exploration activity continues across many parts of Australia, companies are increasingly focused on turnaround times, efficient logistics and timely access to analytical data. When large, unprepared samples need to be transported long distances for preparation, freight requirements and handling times can increase, potentially extending the time between drilling and the delivery of results.  

Why is sample preparation an important part of the workflow? 

Sample preparation is one of the earliest stages in the analytical process. Preparing samples closer to where they are collected can help reduce freight volumes and simplify movement through laboratory networks. In Adelaide, the facility has been designed to reduce several kilograms of ore to smaller preparation splits suitable for transport and subsequent analysis.  

What operational benefits can this provide? 

The main objectives are to improve routing efficiency, reduce transport requirements and strengthen servicing capability across multiple mining regions. By preparing samples earlier in the process, laboratories can move smaller sample volumes through analytical networks while maintaining continuity of analysis. 

How does this fit into broader developments in analytical technology? 

The Adelaide facility reflects a broader industry trend towards advanced analytical technologies that deliver faster results, improved data quality and greater operational efficiency. As part of this investment, SGS will introduce PhotonAssay™ capability for gold, silver and copper analysis in South Australia. PhotonAssay™ uses high-energy X-rays to analyse larger sample volumes and has become an increasingly adopted technology across the mining industry. Until the Adelaide capability becomes operational in early 2027, prepared samples will continue to be analysed through SGS's existing PhotonAssay™ laboratories across Australia. This investment ensures clients will have access to leading analytical technologies closer to their operations. 

Sustainability is increasingly important across mining workflows. Does laboratory testing have a role to play? 

Sustainability is becoming an important consideration in every part of the mining value chain, including the laboratory. Our clients are increasingly looking for solutions that deliver high-quality analytical results while also supporting their environmental and operational goals. 

PhotonAssay™ is a good example of that evolution. Independent work undertaken by GHD in partnership with Chrysos Corporation and SGS found reductions in energy use, carbon dioxide emissions and hazardous lead waste compared with traditional fire assay methods under the conditions assessed. It's one of the reasons we're excited to bring this capability to Adelaide and make advanced analytical technology more accessible to our clients in South Australia. 

How are digital systems changing geochemistry workflows? 

Digital platforms are playing a growing role in laboratory services by providing greater visibility across sample movement and analysis. Clients can track sample progress, view results and monitor workflows through its MyLab platform, supporting management of multi-site exploration and drilling programs.  

Digital systems are changing geochemistry workflows by giving clients greater visibility and control throughout the testing process. Through SGS's MyLab platform, clients can track sample progress, access analytical results and monitor workflows across multiple projects and locations. For exploration and drilling programs, that improved visibility helps teams make informed decisions faster and manage activities more efficiently. 

What does this development indicate about the future of geochemistry services in Australia? 

The development reflects a broader industry focus on faster turnaround times, regional service capability and more connected analytical networks. As exploration programs become increasingly data-driven, there is growing emphasis on improving the flow of information between field activities and operational decision-making.  

For more information about SGS’s new facility in Adelaide, visit the SGS website.