Quantum Technologies in the Resources Sector

Driving safer, smarter, and more sustainable resource exploration and extraction

➔ The Next Frontier in Resource Innovation

Mining and resource exploration are critical to Australia’s economy, but global competition, environmental pressures, and deeper, harder-to-reach deposits are forcing the sector to rethink its technology stack. Quantum technologies are emerging as powerful tools for exploration, extraction, and operational efficiency.

From pinpointing ore bodies with unprecedented precision to optimising supply chains and improving worker safety, quantum is moving from the lab to field-ready applications, with significant crossover opportunities for mining and the broader industrial sector.

Pressing Challenges Quantum Could Help Address 

Where quantum delivers a competitive edge 

Ore and Water Detection

Quantum magnetometers, gravimeters, and gradiometers can locate ore bodies deeper and more accurately than classical systems, reducing exploration time, cost, and environmental impact. 

Navigation in Challenging Environments

Quantum accelerometers and gyroscopes enable navigation without GPS, essential for underground, underwater, or remote operations, and valuable for guiding and stabilising mining machinery.

Geochemistry and Material Analysis 

Quantum spectrometers allow for ultra-precise chemical analysis and spectroscopy, improving identification of high-quality minerals and avoiding wasted resources on low-grade material. 

Logistics Optimisation

Quantum annealing computers can streamline mining logistics, from haulage scheduling to supply chain routing, maximising throughput and reducing energy use. 

Advanced Modelling and Asset Management

Quantum computing can tackle “inverse problem” modelling, real-time asset monitoring, and complex data fusion that classical computers can’t handle — enabling better planning and risk management. 

Relevant Quantum Technologies for Resources

Which tools are most relevant — and why

Quantum Sensing

  • Gravimetry, magnetometry, and gradiometry for deep resource detection 

  • Quantum accelerometers and gyroscopes for precise navigation and machine stability 

  • Compact, power-efficient designs suitable for drones, borehole tools, and mobile platforms 

Quantum Computing & Optimisation  

  • Complex modelling of geological formations 

  • Logistics and supply chain optimisation for large-scale operations 

  • Real-time scenario modelling for exploration planning 

Quantum Communications & Security (emerging) 

  • Secure data transfer for exploration and operational data in remote environments 

Industry Progress and Active Projects

Australia and global players are already trialling quantum in resources

Orica & University of Queensland Quantum Optics Lab

  • Developing ultra-sensitive magnetometers for through-earth communications and blasting optimisation via Orica’s WebGen™ system 

  • Designed for harsh mining conditions with low size, weight, and power requirements — ideal for drones and boreholes 

Fleet Space, DeteQt, mDetect, Nomad Atomics

A DSTG-led space-enabled QKD project with CSIRO, ANU, and UWA launched in April 2025

Rio Tinto 

Testing “virtual X-ray” technologies to enhance mineral exploration efficiency 

Teraglo 

Leveraging quantum sensing for rapid, portable resource identification 

These projects demonstrate that quantum is already entering the operational landscape, not just in proof-of-concept form, but in tools and systems being deployed on-site. 

Use Cases

Connect with our Partnerships Teams

Looking to explore, trial, or deploy quantum technologies in your operations?

Whether you’re in exploration, extraction, or resource processing, Quantum Australia can help you connect with innovators, assess the right technology fit, and design collaborative pilots.

Let’s unlock the next era of resource innovation together.