BASF opened its global mining research and development center at the Australian Minerals Research Centre (AMRC) in Perth, WA. At the new facility, BASF scientists will study specific innovation needs for mineral processing and metal production, to help reduce energy and reuse water at mines in Australia and around the world.

The AMRC site is part of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Australia's national science agency and one of the largest and most diverse research agencies in the world. With a team of six advanced material researchers at the BASF center by the end of 2012 and about 20 researchers over the next five years, focus topics will include advanced rheology modifiers for the improvement of the thickening process for valuables and tailings, as well as modification of the crystallization process in alumina production.