Multidisciplinary laboratory proficiency testing (PT) solutions provider, Qotho Minerals, pronounces its commitment to meeting clients‘ critical and rare earths projects in 2025.
Laboratories in the mining sector need a realistic testing environment that enhances their analytical capabilities. As such, precision and reliability are central to delivering trustworthy results to their clients.
Qotho Minerals (QM) addresses this need by providing customised, pre-planned Proficiency Testing (PT) schemes that mimic real mining materials. The materials are meticulously prepared to ensure they replicate the complexities and variances seen in actual mining operations.
Adherence to ISO standards
QM is devoted to integrity, quality, accountability, and continuous improvement. The company’s adherence to ISO 17043 (PT Scheme Provider) and ISO 17034 (Certified Reference Material Producer) underscores its reputation for quality and consistency.
“These ISO standards ensure that all our PT programs are designed and implemented with international best practices, giving participants confidence that their results meet global benchmarks. Furthermore, we integrate traceability to Certified Reference Materials (CRMs) into our PT solutions,” says Takudzwa Tsapayi, QM’s Operations Manager, highlighting the effectiveness of Qotho’s approach.
Comprehensive reporting system
A comprehensive reporting system is a cornerstone of QM’s approach. It provides participants with detailed statistical analyses of their performance.
The generated reports are not just a summary of results but also diagnostic tools that help laboratories identify strengths and areas for improvement. By equipping laboratories with these insights, QM empowers them to enhance their processes and ultimately deliver accurate and dependable results to the mining industry.
Continuous improvement
What sets QM apart is its flexibility to explore opportunities across various areas as part of its continuous improvement strategy. For instance, the company has embraced AI and big data to enhance its PT processes, unlocking exciting possibilities on the horizon.
“These technologies streamline processes, enabling more efficient operations and reducing redundancies. For example, AI can help automate the identification of bottlenecks, ensuring that workflows remain agile and responsive to participant needs,” Tsapayi explains.
Another area with significant potential is the application of AI and big data in historical trend analysis. “By examining PT performance data over time, big data tools can provide insights into which analytical methods perform best for specific participants or sample types. This information helps laboratories adopt practices that maximise accuracy and reliability, fostering continuous improvement across the board,” adds Tsapayi.
A journey of milestones
QM takes pride in transforming from a small-scale operation to a leader in proficiency testing for the mining industry. A notable milestone was its transition from a suburban two-door garage to a fully operational 1,600m² factory in Broederstroom.
Reflecting on this achievement, Tsapayi notes: “This transformation demonstrates our capacity to meet the expanding needs of clients with state-of-the-art facilities.” Specifically, he highlights two key accomplishments: ISO accreditation and new PT schemes.
i. ISO 17034 accreditation
A testament to the company’s commitment to quality and reliability is ISO 17034 accreditation, a globally recognised standard for Certified Reference Materials. This demonstrates QM’s dedication to providing clients with reliable tools for achieving accurate results and maintaining international credibility.
ii. New PT schemes
In 2024, QM introduced six new PT schemes for Lead (Concentrate), Tin (Ore, Concentrate & Tails), Tantalum (Concentrate & Tails), Lithium (Ore), Aluminium (Bauxite), and Foundry Sands. “These additions highlight Qotho’s growth and ability to cater to diverse and emerging industry needs. For instance, the inclusion of lithium addresses the rising demand for critical minerals in green energy applications,” Tsapayi explains.
Looking ahead to 2024, it will be more of the same for the team at QM. They declare their commitment to supplying PT schemes that help laboratories for mining companies achieve precision in implementing best practices in mineral testing tasks.
