A novel project, which is the result of a collaboration between the University of Évora and the Canadian mining company Redcorp, wants to use AI in mineral exploration. The ‘Hypermetal project’, which combines cutting-edge technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning with conventional approaches, intends to "revolutionise polymetallic mineral exploration in Portugal".

As explained by the University of Évora, The’ Hypermetal project’ “aims to increase efficiency and precision in mineral exploration by reinterpreting historical drilling cores and integrating traditional methods, such as geochemistry and mineralogy, with hyperspectral analyses”. To achieve this, the initiative will make use of "advanced hyperspectral technology," which refers to the application of techniques for observing rocks or minerals using a variety of wavelengths, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning, or autonomous learning.

In addition to providing advanced training for master’s and doctoral students, Pedro Nogueira, a professor of geology and mineral resources at the Department of Geosciences and researcher at the Institute of Earth Sciences at the University of Évora said that "the UE will also have an increase in scientific knowledge regarding these technologies".

Pedro Nogueira has shared that the project was submitted for funding under the category of "co-promotion initiatives between private entities and scientific institutions" within the Alentejo 2030 operational program. The partnership states that UE will be in charge of using hyperspectral technology to assess the Lagoa Salgada mineral deposit, which is currently being kept by Redcorp, in the municipality of Grândola.