In a mining pit, the difference between profit and waste is knowing what you're about to load onto the truck. For decades, that knowledge came from lab assays, a process that could take days and relied on sparse sampling. Plotlogic, an Australian deep-tech startup, is betting that a sensor stack mounted on a shovel or a light vehicle can deliver that answer in 15 minutes [Plotlogic, retrieved 2024].
Its OreSense platform combines hyperspectral imaging, LiDAR, and GPS with proprietary machine learning models to create a real-time "digital assay" of material as it's being excavated. The system scans rock faces and stockpiles, identifying mineral composition and grade on the fly. For mine operators, the promise is a step-change in precision: less waste rock sent to the mill, more target ore recovered, and a direct path to lower carbon emissions per ton of metal produced.
The Sensor Stack Wedge
Plotlogic's technical wedge is its ability to fuse multiple data streams into a decision-ready output at the edge of the pit. Hyperspectral cameras capture hundreds of narrow wavelength bands to detect the unique spectral signatures of different minerals. LiDAR provides precise topographical mapping, and GPS anchors the data in space. The proprietary AI models, trained on vast datasets of geological samples, interpret this sensor fusion to predict ore grade and material properties.
- Speed as the primary metric. The company claims its system delivers analysis in 15 minutes, compared to over an hour for traditional methods [Plotlogic, retrieved 2024].
- Non-invasive scanning. Unlike traditional drilling for samples, the OreSense system scans from a distance, allowing for continuous, high-density data collection [PitchBook, retrieved 2024].
- Integration as a platform. The offering extends beyond hardware to include algorithms, APIs, and visualization tools designed to plug into existing geological models and mine planning software [Tracxn, retrieved 2024].
Validation from Miners and Climate Capital
Customer adoption provides the strongest signal for a product targeting a conservative, risk-averse industry. Multiple independent sources list a roster of global mining giants as clients, including BHP, Vale, South32, and Pilbara Minerals [businessmodelcanvastemplate.com, retrieved 2026].
Plotlogic has raised a total of $54.1 million across three rounds [Tracxn, retrieved 2024]. Its $30.7 million Series B in July 2023 was led by Galvanize Climate Solutions, with participation from SE Ventures and BHP Ventures [Tracxn, July 2023].
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| 2022 Series A | 18 M USD |
| 2023 Series B | 30.7 M USD |
| Total Disclosed | 54.1 M USD |
Who Is Behind the Company
Plotlogic is a solo-founder venture led by Dr. Andrew Job, who holds a PhD in Mechatronics, Robotics, and Automation Engineering from The University of Queensland [Dealroom, retrieved 2024]. His doctoral research focused on AI and sensors for real-time, high-precision orebody knowledge [The Org, retrieved 2026].
| Investor | Type | Notable Round |
|---|---|---|
| Galvanize Climate Solutions | Climate VC | Series B Lead |
| SE Ventures | Corporate VC | Series B Participant |
| BHP Ventures | Corporate VC | Multiple Rounds |
| Innovation Endeavors | Deep Tech VC | Series A Lead |
Where the Geology Gets Hard
Scaling Plotlogic's technology presents engineering and commercial challenges. The first is environmental robustness; mining operations are harsh, with dust, vibration, and extreme temperatures. The second is data complexity; AI models require extensive, site-specific training data to achieve high accuracy. Finally, competition exists, with firms like MineSense offering sensor-based ore sorting solutions.
The Next Twelve Months
Plotlogic's trajectory will be defined by expansion within its existing customer base and landing its first marquee contract with a major miner outside its current roster. The company's recognition as Cleantech Asia-Pacific Company of the Year underscores the powerful dual narrative it can use: operational efficiency for miners, and environmental necessity for investors [itbrief.com.au, retrieved 2026].