The I2Mine (Innovative Technologies and Concepts for the Intelligent Deep Mine of the Future) project marks the start of a series of activities designed to realise the concept of an invisible, zero-impact mine. It concentrated on the development of technologies suitable for deep mining activities.
The I²Mine project developed the innovative methods, technologies, machines and equipment necessary for the efficient exploitation of minerals and disposal of waste, all of which can be carried out underground. This dramatically reduces the volume of surface transportation of both minerals and waste, minimising above ground installations and reducing the environmental impact.
The I2Mine project was funded by the European Commission 7th Framework Programme. The project was carried out by a consortium of 26 companies and academic institutions from 10 European countries led by LKAB from Sweden over a period of 4 years.