The Minerals Research Laboratory (MRL), located in Asheville, North Carolina, is a part of the North Carolina State University's College of Engineering. The main focus of MRL's research is the beneficiation of industrial minerals. MRL's experience in industrial minerals is unmatched by any university laboratory in the United States. This laboratory is unique in the sense that it exemplifies the much sought after partnership between industry, government and academia in conducting effective research. Most of MRL's research efforts are conducted for corporate sponsors. Public service projects are also undertaken. MRL's state-of-the-art facility is equipped with mineral processing equipment and an analytical support facility for mineral characterization.
As part of a land grant Institution, technical assistance and service to the public is also part of the MRL mission. MRL has worked towards relating its purpose and activities to the general public by establishing an educational outreach program known as 'Down to Earth.' MRL also sponsors professional seminars at its facilities in Asheville. These seminars count toward continuing professional competency requirements for Professional Engineers. The MRL library contains one of the best reference sources for mineral processing information in the southeastern United States and is available for public use.
The Minerals Research Laboratory started operations in July 1946, under a joint venture between North Carolina State College and Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). The city of Asheville donated the land where the building is located. The laboratory operated under the cooperative State/TVA arrangement until 1954, when the MRL was placed entirely under the Department of Engineering Research at North Carolina State College. Today it remains a part of NC State University.
MRL was established to assist in the development of North Carolina's mineral resources through research and development. Research concentrated on industrial (nonmetallic and nonfuel) minerals found in North Carolina and was mostly state funded. Gradually most of the research has shifted from state funded projects to individual corporate sponsorship from all over the world. MRL's research activities have greatly contributed toward increasing the value of North Carolina's mineral wealth.
From the guide to the North Carolina State University, Minerals Research Laboratory Records, 1945-1994, (Special Collections Research Center)
