Big news from the underground world: Element Six (part of De Beers Group) and Master Drilling just dropped a game-changing tech collab that’s redefining how tunnels are built—and it’s powered by synthetic diamonds. 💥
Unveiled in Oxford and Johannesburg, this strategic partnership fuses Element Six’s patented polycrystalline diamond (PCD) cutting tech with Master Drilling’s advanced mechanized systems, creating a tunneling solution that’s faster, cleaner, and greener than traditional excavation methods.
🚀 Key innovations:
- Over 17% less waste rock generated
- Works in both underground and surface tunneling conditions
- Tested and proven in the UK and South Africa
- Boosts speed + reduces cost + cuts environmental impact
💬 “We’re offering safer, faster, and more economical tunnel development,” said Master Drilling’s Executive Director Koos Jordaan. “This solution changes the game for mining, infrastructure, energy, and transport.”
Why this matters:
- Tunnels are essential for accessing minerals, powering hydro plants, running utilities, and streamlining city traffic.
- Traditional methods? Explosive, waste-heavy, and expensive.
- This diamond-powered tech offers non-explosive excavation with way less disruption.
🌍 Siobhán Duffy, CEO of Element Six, says this is part of De Beers’ Origins strategy—and a vision for a more sustainable industrial future:
“Synthetic diamonds can transform tunnel construction by reducing waste and improving efficiency.”
💡 Fun fact: Element Six has been unlocking the power of synthetic diamonds for over 70 years—across everything from water treatment to sensors to aerospace components.
This partnership might sound niche, but its impact? Massive. We're talking the future of green mining, next-gen infrastructure, and smarter urban development—all thanks to a diamond, but not the kind you wear. 🔬✨