MRL Education Outreach

The Minerals Research Laboratory educational outreach program relates the laboratory’s purpose and activities to the general public.The MRL has a long history of educational outreach services and programs:

Classroom Presentations and MRL Tours

One hour “Rocks and Minerals” presentations are available in your classroom by arrangement, as well as one hour tours of the Lab and Pilot plant. For more information, contact the Educational Outreach Coordinator, Randall Beavers at randall_beavers@ncsu.edu.

 

Rock Kits

Bob Baldwin with one of MRL's Rock Kits
Bob Baldwin with one of MRL’s Rock Kits.

One of the most popular services provided by the MRL is assembling rock kits for use in geology and other classes. Each kit contains rock samples that represent the minerals of North Carolina, instructions, CD’s, DVD’s, Posters and Maps. One kit can serve 2 classes simultaneously if shared properly.

Mineral Processing Concentration

The University of North Carolina at Asheville now offers a concentration in Mineral Processing under their Environmental Studies program. This includes the following 3 courses taught by Dr. Robert Mensah-Biney at both UNCA and the MRL:

  • ENVR 311 – Fundamentals of Mineral Processing
  • ENVR 410 – Flotation and Surface
  • ENVR 411 – Mineral Processing Plant Operation

For more information about the courses contact the Environmental Studies Department at UNC-Asheville.