A research team from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhubaneswar has developed a satellite-based technique to identify potential bauxite deposits, marking a major advancement in mineral exploration in Odisha.
Led by Assistant Professor Ashim Sattar, the project focused on mapping bauxite prospects across parts of Koraput and Rayagada districts. Using advanced hyperspectral satellite remote sensing, the team identified zones with a high likelihood of bauxite occurrence, offering a cost-effective solution for early-stage mineral exploration.
Integrated Scientific ApproachThe study combined satellite-derived data with extensive field investigations, supported by geochemical testing, petrographic analysis, and laboratory-based spectral measurements to validate the results. This multi-layered methodology provides a reliable framework for locating prospective bauxite-bearing areas, according to the research published in the peer-reviewedJournal of Geochemical Exploration.
Strategic Importance of BauxiteBauxite, the primary ore for aluminium production, is a strategically important mineral with wide industrial applications, including aerospace, construction, and packaging. With global aluminium demand projected to exceed supply by 2030, securing reliable domestic sources has become a key priority for India.
Recognition and ImpactThe IIT Bhubaneswar team was honoured by the Odisha government at the Odisha Mining and Infrastructure International Conference for developing the satellite-enabled exploration technology. The researchers noted that the technique can significantly reduce both the cost and time of preliminary mineral exploration while enhancing the accuracy of identifying viable bauxite zones.
