The Evolution of Core Storage: Why Plastic Core Trays Define the Future of Mining

Mining is one of the oldest and most essential industries in human history, providing the raw materials that power economies, fuel industries, and shape modern technology. But while drilling rigs, geological surveys, and heavy equipment usually take the spotlight, one humble tool quietly safeguards billions of dollars’ worth of resources: the plastic core tray.

In mineral exploration, every metre drilled results in valuable geological samples. These cores tell the story of what lies beneath the earth’s surface—whether it is gold in Nevada, copper in Chile, or lithium in Argentina. But without safe, reliable storage, the integrity of these samples could be compromised. That is why core trays for mining have become one of the most critical investments for exploration and geotechnical projects worldwide.

Why Core Trays Matter in Exploration

A core tray may appear simple at first glance, but it represents the foundation of exploration drilling storage. Every sample collected is carefully placed in trays for transportation, examination, logging, and long-term archiving. Without the right storage, data accuracy is lost, samples can be contaminated, and millions of dollars’ worth of exploration work may be wasted.

For mining companies and geologists, core trays provide three essential benefits:

• Sample Security: Protecting geological samples from damage or contamination.

• Data Accuracy: Ensuring that cores are stored in correct order and properly labelled, which is essential for geological analysis.

• Logistical Advantage: Enabling efficient stacking, transport, and long-term storage, both in the field and in core sheds.

This is why the choice between metal, wood, and plastic trays is no longer trivial. Modern mining increasingly relies on plastic core trays as the standard, because they combine durability, sustainability, and cost efficiency.

Premium vs. Standard Core Trays

The PCT Plastic Core Trays Catalog highlights two main product categories designed to meet diverse field requirements:

• Premium Core Trays: Manufactured from 100% virgin polypropylene (PP). These trays are UV-resistant, chemical-resistant, and designed for maximum impact strength. They are ideal for companies that require the highest performance in extreme field conditions.

• Standard Core Trays: Produced from recycled plastic, offering cost-effective yet durable solutions. While more economical, they still meet international mining standards and are designed for both field and laboratory use.

Both categories are fully compatible with international drilling systems and are available in all industry sizes: BQ, NQ, HQ, PQ, and SQ.

Technical Specifications at a Glance

Each design is engineered to match exploration needs, ensuring safe storage across geotechnical, hydrogeology, oil & gas, and mining operations.

Sustainability at the Core

Today’s mining industry faces increasing pressure to align with ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) standards. Investors, governments, and communities expect mining companies to reduce carbon emissions, recycle materials, and operate responsibly.

This is where PCT Plastic Core Trays stand out. Sustainability is built into their production process:

• ♻️ Recycling 8,900 tons of plastic annually – equivalent to the annual waste of nearly 120,000 people. Instead of ending up in landfills, this plastic is transformed into durable trays that serve the mining industry for decades.

• ☀️ Powered by 7.3 MW solar energy – PCT’s factory generates clean electricity that meets the annual needs of approximately 2,500 households. This drastically reduces dependence on non-renewable sources.

• Lower carbon footprint – By using renewable energy and recycled plastic, PCT contributes to green mining supply chains, reducing the industry’s environmental impact.

The result: every plastic core tray not only protects valuable samples but also contributes to a more sustainable mining sector.

Global Reach and Distribution

With a production capacity of 3.2 million trays per year, scalable to 10 million trays, PCT ensures that projects of any size—from small exploration programs to large-scale mines—can be supplied without delay.

The factory spans 32,000 m², with 14,000 m² dedicated to production, supported by over 170 skilled employees. This scale, combined with efficient logistics, allows PCT to export to 44 countries worldwide.

• Same-day dispatch: Orders are shipped within one business day, minimising costly delays in exploration schedules.

• Optimised pallets: Designed to 103 × 108 × 230 cm, trays are stacked efficiently to reduce logistics costs while ensuring safe international shipping.

• Trusted globally: From Africa to South America, mining operations rely on PCT for consistent supply and reliable quality.

Applications Across the Mining Sector

Plastic core trays are used in nearly every stage of exploration and development:

• Mineral Exploration: Safeguarding core samples of gold, copper, cobalt, and rare earth elements.

• Geotechnical Engineering: Storing samples for infrastructure projects such as tunnels, dams, and foundations.

• Hydrogeology: Supporting water resource mapping and aquifer studies.

• Oil & Gas Exploration: Withstanding harsh environments in petroleum drilling projects.

• Laboratory Analysis: Providing long-term sample archiving under UV-resistant and chemical-resistant conditions.

By using plastic core trays, companies not only improve efficiency but also ensure compliance with global best practices.

Why Mining Leaders Choose Plastic Core Trays

Top companies in the mining industry, such as Anglo American, Rio Tinto, Barrick Gold, and BHP, rely on safe and sustainable core storage solutions. For these industry giants, a broken or contaminated sample is not just a logistical problem—it can represent millions of dollars in lost value or inaccurate reporting.

By adopting plastic core trays manufactured with recycled materials and solar energy, mining companies can:

• Ensure sample integrity across the supply chain.

• Reduce their carbon footprint and align with ESG targets.

• Optimise logistics with stackable, durable trays.

• Lower long-term costs by investing in trays that last decades instead of years.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Core Storage

As global demand for critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, and copper continues to rise, the role of core storage systems will only grow in importance. Accurate sampling will remain essential for the energy transition, particularly as the world shifts to electric vehicles and renewable energy infrastructure.

Future trends in core storage include:

• RFID Tracking: Embedding digital identification for seamless logging and inventory.

• Advanced Ergonomics: Designing trays for safer, easier handling by field teams.

• Circular Economy: Expanding recycling programs to reduce waste and extend tray life cycles.

In this context, plastic core trays are no longer just a container—they are a strategic tool in supporting exploration, sustainability, and efficiency.

Conclusion

The mining industry is evolving, and with it, the tools that make exploration possible. Plastic core trays have emerged as the global standard, delivering a unique combination of durability, sustainability, and logistical efficiency.

Through large-scale recycling, solar-powered production, and global distribution, PCT Plastic Core Trays is not only shaping the future of exploration storage but also contributing to a greener and more responsible mining sector.

Whether in the deserts of Africa, the jungles of South America, or the frozen tundra of Canada, these trays ensure that geological samples remain secure, accurate, and protected—the foundation upon which the next generation of mining projects will be built.