NRRI Integrated Expertise

Program Overview

Cross-cutting institute expertise that supports all NRRI programs and projects, from developing web-based tools, databases and custom web applications for visualizing and analyzing data to material testing, spatial analysis and custom laboratory design and construction.

Recent Research

• Drone technology advances science 
  • A new fixed wing Unmanned Aerial Vehicle was acquired with vertical take off and landing capability, higher resolution cameras, and increased flight duration; it allows collection of imagery in locations previously inaccessible.
  • Demonstrated improved classification accuracy of peatland vegetation in imagery collected with our Unmanned Aerial Vehicle, making significant progress towards the goal of remote monitoring of sensitive ecosystems. 
• Provided GIS services, satellite imagery acquisition, image classification, and database development for research groups across the Institute. 
• Improved iron mining waste pile database documenting resources most suitable for development. This information will serve the industry as interest grows in using existing waste piles as a source of iron. 
• Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML) is being incorporated in predictive tools in partnership with National Renewable Energy Lab scientists.
• New Green Chemistry iron titration method developed to remove toxic reagents while improving accuracy and precision of results. 
• NRRI Engineering team collaborated across the Institute to plan, design, and deliver enhanced research facilities.