Mining giant Rio tinto has announced the official launch of its Asia Technology Centre (ATC) in a bid to ‘serve the growing market for borates in Asia’.

The ATC in Suzhou, China joins other research facilities in the United States, and has been developed with functional laboraties, offices and workspaces.

The ATC provides important internal capabilities in glass and ceramics, metals and advanced materials, and agriculture and specialty chemicals to support 

Rio Tinto Minerals president and chief executive Xiaoling Liu said "Asia is the largest and fastest growing market for borates in the world, accounting for 50 per cent of global demand. Refined borates play an important role in promoting higher standards of living and addressing energy and food shortages. We are proud to partner with respected companies and research organisations throughout Asia to provide reliable, consistent innovation now and into the future."