A model is only as good as its data, but for Roman Teslyuk, the delays in processing were making his startup Earth AI lag. With critical minerals like copper and platinum, the stakes are high, and Teslyuk’s frustration with two-month-long backlogs led to a bold move: setting up his own labs.

At Earth AI, they've been using their models to suggest promising spots for drilling in Australia. However, once they identify these areas, traditional labs can take up to five months to process the rock samples and confirm the presence of minerals. This delay is now a thing of the past thanks to Teslyuk’s decision to establish an on-site lab that promises data turnaround times down to just five days.

The goal here isn’t just about speed; it's about precision. With quicker feedback, Earth AI can optimise their drilling strategy, sending the drill only where it really counts. 'If you don’t have the answers in time, you have to wait for five months,' Teslyuk explained. 'To minimise drilling, you want to effectively ask the right questions.' This approach is not just cost-effective but also more environmentally friendly by reducing unnecessary excavation.

The shift towards an integrated lab system shows how AI and machine learning are transforming the mining industry. No longer will critical minerals remain hidden behind lab backlogs; instead, they'll be unearthed with unprecedented speed and accuracy. For Earth AI, this vertical integration is a game-changer, ensuring their models get the best data possible to drive mining decisions.