3D Technologies and Machine Learning in Mineral Sciences

Dear Colleagues,

Recent advances in 3D technologies and machine learning (ML) are transforming the field of Mineral Sciences. From the digitization of mineral specimens to AI-driven predictive modeling, these innovations are reshaping both scientific research and cultural heritage applications in museums, collections, and geoscience education.

As digitization efforts expand, virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR), 3D printing, and spatial computing are creating immersive and interactive experiences that bridge the gap between the lab and the public. Likewise, machine learning is providing new opportunities in mineral classification, geochemical analysis, and computational geoscience. These advancements are not only improving scientific workflows but are also playing a crucial role in preserving and sharing geological heritage.

However, challenges remain. How can AI and 3D technologies be effectively integrated into mineralogical studies and museum exhibitions? What tools are currently being developed, and what are their real-world impacts? What obstacles continue to hinder their widespread adoption?

This Special Issue welcomes the submission of articles that explore the innovative application, benefits, and challenges associated with these technologies in mineral sciences. We seek original research, case studies, and reviews.

I look forward to receiving your contributions to this exciting Special Issue.

Dr. Andrei Ionuț Apopei
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Minerals is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.