DOK-ING - Mining Outlook - Issue 11

2 | Mining Outlook Issue 11

DOK-ING EUROPE & MIDDLE EAST

Equipped with the steadfast mantra of ‘don’t send a man to do a machine’s job’, we learn about DOK-ING’s comprehensive and transformative robotics solutions that are saving countless lives and evolving industries throughout Europe. The company’s leadership team across its three divisions tell us more Writer: Lucy Pilgrim | Project Manager: Cameron Lawrence

Mining Outlook Issue 11 | 3

DOK-ING EUROPE & MIDDLE EAST

L

eading the charge in heavyduty robotics and autonomous systems, DOK-ING has established itself as a manufacturing powerhouse, globally renowned for producing world-class unmanned vehicles that protect human lives in otherwise hazardous and harmful environments.

Headquartered in Zagreb, Croatia, the company operates across 40

countries and diligently meets the needs of the security and defence, underground mining, and energy sectors through three proactive divisions.

DOK-ING strives to produce forward-thinking applications that deliver a step-change in both safety and efficiency.

Indeed, the company first emerged from the mission to find a mechanical

solution to take humans away from dangerous and labour-intensive environments during the demining effort in Croatia in the early 1990s.

Since then, DOK-ING’s focus has remained on operating in hazardous and dangerous areas where conventional first responders are incredibly limited, particularly in the extreme conditions often experienced in the military and during underground mining.

“The technology already exists, but at DOK-ING, we’ve made a deliberate choice to apply it where it matters most – in the world’s most dangerous and demanding jobs,” introduces Davor Petek, COO of DOK-ING Security and Defence.

“By targeting high-risk environments, we create real impact, reducing exposure for frontline workers whilst improving operational performance. This is where innovation truly proves its worth, and it’s the path we’ve committed to,” echoes Luka Petro, COO of DOK-ING Mining.

“Bottom line, our systems are designed to thrive where humans would otherwise die,” Petek adds.

DELIVERING THE COMPLEX NEEDS OF DEFENCE

“ W H E N W E D E S I G N E D T H E KO M O D O, W E H A D O N E G OA L I N M I N D : TO I N C R E AS E EFFICIENCY AND REDUCE COSTS FOR THE END USER” – D AV O R P E T E K , C O O , D O K - I N G S E C U R I T Y A N D D E F E N C E

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As one of the company’s key focus divisions, DOK-ING Security and Defence delivers critical unmanned systems for the harshest military situations.

Due to ongoing political conflicts across Europe and further afield, alongside the rise of chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) environments, the division’s unmatched capabilities are at the top of development and procurement priority lists due to an increasingly complex global security situation.

Croatia’s defence capabilities in particular are shifting into a higher gear, as demonstrated by the recent establishment of an inter-ministerial commission for the nation’s defence capabilities and

industry development, paving the way for improvements in business-togovernment (B2G) activities.

However, it will still be some time before the appropriate policies and initiatives are fully operationalised to effectively close Croatia’s capability gap when compared to other European countries.

“The financial aspect is there and our production capacity is increasing, but without long-term contracts and orders from governments, industry cannot close the gap,” Petek discusses.

“We also still have a very slow and complex procurement process that was maybe acceptable in peace time, but we are now operating in a different, more demanding environment that requires a serious change in EU procurement policies.”

This is particularly pertinent given the recent conflict between Russia and Ukraine, which has increased the significance of secure defence capabilities.

With this in mind, DOK-ING Security

and Defence’s advanced systems designed for mobility operations and demining and humanitarian demining, such as the MV-4 Scorpion and MV-10 Bison, are preferred systems in Ukraine due to their high survivability and reliability.

The continual targeting of the country’s critical infrastructure has also highlighted the demand for the division’s crisis response systems, including the MV-3 Hystrix, MV-5 Tusk, and MV-8 Komodo (Komodo) CBRN.

A NEXT-GENERATION UNMANNED PLATFORM As DOK-ING Security and Defence’s latest modular platform, the Komodo is proving to be a critical capability for the increasing operational use of unmanned vehicles.

“When we designed the Komodo, we had one goal in mind: to increase efficiency and reduce costs for the end user whilst maintaining the same – or similar – level of capability, all with a strong focus on protecting human

lives and property. I truly believed we have succeeded in that mission,” Petek states.

Therefore, as unmanned ground vehicles continue to be integrated into the capabilities of military forces, the Komodo aims to provide the same levels of combat support as manned vehicles.

“Combining manned and unmanned platforms with same or mutually supporting capabilities increases combat power and force protection whilst ultimately lowering cost,” Petek explains.

Given the Komodo is a payloadagnostic platform, its users are able to integrate payloads that are either lacking on conventional platforms or more efficient and acceptable due to unmanned aspects.

Furthermore, providing a single platform with multiple payloads simplifies operations, maintenance, and logistics support, enabling users to utilise the same platform with combined capabilities for multiple tasks.

Mining Outlook Issue 11 | 5

FUSING QUALITY WITH EXPERTISE With a proud 20+ year history of welding all types of metal for various structures, LBD d.o.o. is a company driven by customer satisfaction and service excellence

H

eadquartered in the city of Rijeka, Croatia, LBD d.o.o. (LBD) offers a wide range of welding, processing, and assembly services for all types of metals.

Having evolved from humble beginnings as a small Croatian business, the company has grown rapidly and is today recognised across Europe for its firstrate services.

With a newly established branch in Trieste, Italy, and a vision for continued expansion, LBD draws on its two decades of industry experience and team of dedicated and qualified personnel to ensure welding excellence every time.

Its staff base consists of engineers, certified welders, structural fabricators, managers, and administrative employees, each of whom are offered comprehensive training and professional development opportunities.

Well-versed in complex projects where various tests of welded joints are required, LBD’s knowledge of the metalworking industry guarantees consistent quality, regardless of the thickness of the material or purpose of the finished product.

FIRST-CLASS SERVICES Metal inert gas (MIG) and metal active gas (MAG) welding, also known as gas metal arc welding (GMAW), are versatile welding processes that enable fast and efficient results, applicable to various metals.

LBD utilises MIG and MAG alongside two other welding processes, Tungsten inert gas (TIG) and remote exothermic welding (REL).

The method selected depends on the type of material being welded, alongside its thickness and the environment in which it must perform.

Offering a comprehensive range of supplementary services, including magnetic particle testing (MPT), non-destructive testing (NDT), and ultrasonic testing (UT), the company conducts its activities in a workshop fitted with cranes which have capacities of 10, seven, or five tonnes.

It also offers construction services and technical support solutions throughout the entire project life cycle, from the initial design stages to the finished product.

Utilising top-of-the-range 2D and 3D modelling programmes alongside appropriate methods and specifications helps LBD produce a precise and defined final product.

PROJECT OF NOTE LBD is currently working on the MV-10 BISON (MV-10) demining machine for DOK-ING, a leader in the development and production of robotic and autonomous systems and equipment.

An industry stalwart for over three decades and present in 40 countries, DOK-ING is known for its innovative approach and state-of-the-art technologies, which have earned it a superior status in international markets.

LBD is therefore committed to its responsibility of welding and manufacturing the machinery to a high quality.

A crucial piece of equipment, the remote-controlled MV-10 uses a rotating appendage to detonate landmines at mine sites across the world.

Made entirely of HARDOX 450 steel, the MV-10 benefits from the resilience and endurance of the material, making it ideally suited to operate in challenging terrains.

Proud to showcase its involvement in the development of this product, LBD demonstrates its ability to deliver the highest standards of quality and workmanship.

LBD d.o.o. has a Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) department. NDT of welds and base materials is a critical process used to evaluate the integrity and quality of components without causing damage.

It ensures that welds are free from defects such as cracks, porosity, or incomplete fusion, and that the base material meets structural and safety requirements. LBD d.o.o. and its employees are certified in the following NDT methods: visual testing (VT), ultrasonic testing (UT), radiographic testing (RT), magnetic particle testing (MT), dye penetrant testing (PT), holiday test and hardness test. Each of the methods is suited to different types of materials and flaw detection. These techniques help prevent failures, improve reliability, and maintain compliance with industry and state standards.

Visual Testing (VT) is the most basic and widely used non-destructive testing method. It involves

inspecting the surface of welds and base materials with the naked eye or with the help of tools like magnifying glasses, borescopes, or cameras. VT is used to detect surface defects such as cracks, undercuts, porosity, misalignment, and incomplete welds. It is often the first step in quality control and is cost-effective, quick, and easy to perform, but limited to surface-visible flaws.

MISSION, VISION, AND VALUES As a person-centred organisation, LBD’s mission is to prioritise customers’ needs and demonstrate its investment in people.

Magnetic Particle Testing (MT) is a non-destructive testing method used to detect surface and nearsurface defects in ferromagnetic materials like carbon steel. The process involves magnetizing the part and then applying fine magnetic particles (either dry or suspended in liquid). If there are any discontinuities such as cracks or laps, they create leakage fields that attract the particles, forming visible indications. MT is highly effective for detecting surface-breaking flaws but cannot be used on non-magnetic materials like aluminum or austenitic stainless steel.

The company’s relentless dedication, enviable precision, and high level of execution are evident in its products, which are supported by its continuous investment in new machines, devices, and technologies.

Penetrant Testing (PT), also known as Dye Penetrant Testing, is a non-destructive method used to detect surface-breaking defects in nonporous materials, both metallic and non-metallic.

It involves applying a liquid dye penetrant to the surface, allowing it to seep into any cracks or flaws, then removing the excess and applying a developer to draw the penetrant back out. This creates a visible indication of defects such as cracks, porosity, or seams. PT is especially useful for materials that are non-magnetic, unlike MT, but it only reveals surface defects.

Radiographic Testing (RT) is a non-destructive testing method that uses X-rays or gamma rays to inspect the internal structure of welds and materials. The radiation passes through the component and exposes a film or digital detector on the opposite side. Variations in material thickness or internal flaws like porosity, slag inclusions, or lack of fusion appear as differences in density on the radiograph. RT provides a permanent record of the inspection and is highly effective for detecting internal defects, but it requires strict safety precautions due to radiation exposure.

Ultrasonic Testing (UT) is a non-destructive testing method that uses high-frequency sound waves to detect internal flaws, measure thickness, and evaluate material properties. A transducer sends sound waves into the material, and any reflections from discontinuities - such as cracks, voids, or lack of fusion—are recorded and analyzed. UT is highly sensitive, capable of detecting very small internal defects, and can be performed from one side of the component. It is widely used in weld inspection, corrosion monitoring, and thickness measurement, especially in materials where radiographic testing cannot be used.

Hardness testing is a non-destructive method used to measure a material’s resistance to deformation, typically by indentation. It provides valuable information about the mechanical properties of welds, base materials, and heat-affected zones (HAZ), such as strength and wear resistance.

Meanwhile, by constantly educating its employees and introducing new services, it strives to deliver best-in-class products to meet even the most stringent customer requirements.

LBD’s vision to establish, develop, and maintain business relations with domestic and foreign partners is built on ensuring high standards of delivery for optimum welding, structural fabricatoring, and assembly services.

Paying special attention to the safety of its workers across construction sites, the company stands out from the competition due to its team of professional, trained, and highly motivated staff, whose impeccable knowledge and discipline are secondto-none.

Additionally, the quality and timeliness of LBD’s work help to distinguish it, with strict compliance and delivery deadlines in place to ensure it remains ahead of the curve.

Cell: 00385 91 554 2468 E-mail: info@lbd.hr Website: www.lbd.hr

DOK-ING EUROPE & MIDDLE EAST

As such, the Komodo provides immeasurable benefits to ongoing conflicts, offering versatility in response to threats and a vast range of payload capabilities. This is particularly advantageous given the current combat systems in service are either outdated, very expensive, or there are too few pieces of equipment for it to be considered for expansion.

“We aim to tackle these challenges but in the unmanned vehicle domain.

We plan to roll out unmanned and programable systems for both hasty and planned counter mobility operations.

“At the same time, we will provide solutions for mobility operations that are currently only available on manned platforms,” Petek sets out.

Elsewhere, DOK-ING Security and Defence is heavily involved in EU and NATO technology development

HOW DOES DOKING DIFFERENTIATE ITSELF FROM THE COMPETITION? Luka Petro, COO, DOK-ING Mining: “The culture at DOK-ING is truly one of a kind – a rare blend of relentless, goal-driven focus and a deeply-rooted, family-like atmosphere. It’s a place where people care just as much about the mission as they do about each other.

“Over time, this culture becomes visible in everything we create.

You can see it in the precision of our engineering, the purpose behind our designs, and the pride our teams bring to every machine we deliver.”

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projects that define current and future industry trends, from critical infrastructure protection to a varied defence portfolio.

For example, the EU has recently focused on the development of robotic systems and capabilities that support the civilian structures responsible for critical infrastructure protection and response operations.

DOK-ING Security and Defence’s unmanned support to first responder units aligns with this goal and ensures the division is well positioned to provide innovative solutions that not only support these units but drastically increase their response capabilities.

BREAKING THE MINING PARADIGM DOK-ING’s reputable capabilities also extend to its mining division, which

has pioneered a state-of-the-art fleet of narrow reef equipment (NRE) for the South African and global underground mining market.

The narrow reef mining sector has undergone significant challenges in the last 20 years, as businesses have had to choose between limited methods, including more conventional and labour-intensive methods that are difficult to scale in a cost-effective manner and have significant safety risks, and lowprofile mechanisation that often leads to dilution, high costs, and limited adaptability to changing reef inclinations.

“With the development of the NRE fleet, we’re breaking that paradigm and delivering a solution that enables the safe, efficient, and truly scalable mechanisation of narrow reef production,” excites Petro.

“This isn’t just an incremental improvement – it’s a game-changer for sub-horizontal, thin orebodies like those found in South Africa’s platinum group metals and gold sectors. It’s a bold step towards unlocking value that was previously trapped by outdated methods.”

DOK-ING Mining’s NRE fleet stands out in particular due to its facilitation of mechanised mining in ultra-narrow reefs of below 1.7 metres.

Furthermore, the fleet has continually demonstrated it can consistently achieve optimum performance, be maintained effectively, and deliver the required output, thus shifting the industry’s response to the equipment from cautious interest to genuine enthusiasm.

This is evidenced

by DOK-ING Mining’s recent application of its NRE for Bokoni Platinum Mines, which demonstrated the extent to which

DOK-ING EUROPE & MIDDLE EAST

“ B Y TA R G E T I N G H I G H - R I S K E N V I R O N M E N T S , W E C R E AT E R E A L I M P A C T, R E D U C I N G EXPOSURE FOR FRONTLINE WORKERS W H I L S T I M P R O V I N G O P E R AT I O N A L P E R F O R M A N C E . T H I S I S W H E R E I N N O VAT I O N T R U LY P R O V E S I T S W O R T H , A N D I T ’ S T H E P AT H W E ’ V E C O M M I T T E D T O ” – LU K A P E T R O, CO O, D O K- I N G M I N I N G

the fleet can consistently meet production targets, thus representing the future of narrow reef mining.

“This success gave us the confidence to scale our NRE to the global stage,” Petro prides.

With recognition and support from EIT Rawmaterials, a consortium in the European raw materials market, DOK-ING Mining’s NRE fleet is on an accelerated path and poised to

become the global benchmark in mechanised mining.

“What began as a bold idea is now setting the standard for what’s possible in some of the world’s most challenging underground environments,” he insights.

GURANTEEING CONTINUOUS SAFETY DOK-ING Mining further stands

out due to the plethora of safety benefits that its robotic systems provide, primarily due to the introduction of remotely operated machines that have transformed what was once a highly hazardous environment.

Using NRE technology not only removes personnel from dangerous to supported environments but also allows the operator to achieve the same output as a dozen miners at the face, without being exposed to the risks.

DOK-ING’s ultra low-profile Dozer, for instance, addresses one of the most pressing safety challenges in narrow reef mining – replacing the scraper winch, which historically results in many injuries and fatalities.

More than a mechanical upgrade, this equipment represents a step-change in how safety and productivity can co-exist.

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DON’T SEND A MAN TO DO A MACHINE’S JOB

WHEN YOU

.... AND THEN WHAT?

A practical insight into integration of robotic assets into a tactical operations (and C4I / C2 software).

T

he age of autonomy isn’t coming - it’s here. But the real winners will be those who go beyond the hardware and make their systems smarter through integration. Done right, unmanned assets won’t just support the mission - they’ll shape it.Yet for all the promise they hold, these tools often remain underused, misused, or siloed in operations that have yet to catch up with their potential.

The central issue? We’re still sending men to do a machine’s job - and not integrating those machines properly when we do.

Small Tools, Big Missions

Most UxV platforms are delivered with proprietary Ground Control Stations (GCS) — typically bundled as software-hardware suites “off the truck” — providing basic functionality for direct control and limited mission planning. Whilst effective for localised task execution, these GCS solutions operate in isolation from the overarching command infrastructure. They are not battlefield management systems.

Bridging the Gap: Integrating Robotic Systems into C4I/C2 Battlefield Management

Robotic assets generally fall into two categories. The first: compact, personal drones like the DJI or FLIR Black Hornet, often wielded by individuals or tight-knit teams. The second: larger, more autonomous systems, like the MQ-9 Reaper or DOK-ING Komodo UGV. Here, operators are more like service providers, delivering tactical capabilities to other personnel.

Despite growing interest in robotic systems, their integration into command, control, communications, computers, and intelligence/command and control (C4I/C2) environments remains limited. As a result, unmanned ground and aerial assets are frequently excluded from standardised digital frameworks used for operational planning, resource allocation, and mission reporting.

But what both categories often share is isolation from the broader tactical picture.

This disconnect impedes the seamless employment of robotics in contemporary military operations.

The Grill Team Conundrum In military slang, the “grill team” refers to drone operators who set up shop safely behind the lines, out of the fray. Whilst their systems collect critical intel, these teams often remain disconnected from the command staff or field units who need that data most.

UGV System scenario evaluation results

While AI has demonstrable utility in reducing operator cognitive load and automating routine surveillance functions, the reality is that full autonomy remains aspirational.

Current systems lack the robust situational awareness and adaptive decision-making necessary to navigate dynamic battlefield environments without human intervention.

“And then what?”

Start by being real. Understand the tools.

Experiment. Expect a few metaphorical smashed thumbs along the way. Real tactical value begins when unmanned systems are integrated with the C4I command & Control at every phase of the mission: from planning and logistics to execution and review.

True integration requires a C4I/C2 platform capable of incorporating UxV tasking into the broader operational context — where unmanned missions are treated as integral components of the overall scheme of maneuver. This means the ability to plan, assign, and synchronize UxV missions within the same digital environment that governs maneuver elements, fires, ISR, and logistics.

Without this, robotic systems risk being employed as tactical one-offs rather than as force-multiplying assets within a coordinated, multi-domain operation.

About Mil Sistemika Powering Autonomy with Smart, Mission-Ready Software

UxV mission planning software (not BMS) Source: carmenta.se

UxV operators in action

PES Battlefield management software, showing the STANAG 4609 full screen geo located video feed. Source: Mil Sistemika When high-quality unmanned platforms are paired with robust, interoperable software integrated into the broader C4I/ C2 ecosystem, the result is more than just operational efficiency — it is a true force multiplier. As advancements in artificial intelligence and sensor technologies continue to push the boundaries of autonomy, the functional role of UxVs on the battlefield will expand accordingly.

Including the UxV resources in mission plans will assure their availability to the intended (planned) users according to the schedule prepared. By sharing mission order over the communications (SATCOm, VHF, LTE etc.), users will always know what type of robotic assets with what capabilities are at their disposal at any given time.

Users can use the BMS to request “eyes on” a certain location or object on the map displayed on their EUD (End User Device).

Not only does video feed gets directed to them, but they also get an option to take over drone gimble control and control the camera directly, all from a safe distance whilst a UAV is automatically flying in a pattern above the target.

PES Battlefield management software, supporting UAV operations by showing the tactical situation, sensor coverage and video feed. Source: Mil Sistemika

Successful integration is as much a human challenge as a technical one. Embracing new operational paradigms, refining workflows, and adopting a systems-level mindset are essential steps towards harnessing unmanned systems not as niche tools, but as integral components of future combat operations — enhancing mission safety, simplicity, and effectiveness across the force

From military-grade control systems to industrial robotics, Slovenia’s Mil Sistemika enables smarter, safer unmanned operations across industries. Based in Slovenia and with over two decades of experience in mission-critical software development, Mil Sistemika is a trusted partner to organizations operating in complex and often hazardous environments. From battlefield command platforms to mining robotics and disaster response systems, Mil Sistemika provides the software backbone that makes high-stakes operations both smarter and safer.

In addition to DOK-ING, the company supports a growing roster of partners in Europe, Asia, and North America - ranging from defence ministries and government agencies to private robotics developers and industrial equipment manufacturers.

And what of the once-detached grill team?

They’ve evolved. Now known as “UxV mission specialists,” they are fully embedded in fire brigades, civil defence, and frontline units. No longer watching from afar, they’re integral to the mission - just like any other soldier, medic, or technician.

www.milsistemika.com

DOK-ING EUROPE & MIDDLE EAST

a proving ground. This is where innovation meets opportunity, and transformation becomes inevitable,” he expands.

As part of the development of its remote-controlled technology, DOK-ING Mining is taking the next step towards teleoperation and semi-autonomous systems in order to achieve its ultimate goal of zero personnel underground.

Although this is a unanimous vision across the industry, the division is dedicated to leading the way by pushing boundaries with further automation.

“It won’t happen overnight, but with each innovation, we move closer to a safer, smarter, and fully mechanised future; just as we’ve done so far, we’re ready to keep leading that journey.”

SET FOR MINING EXPANSION

“I BELIEVE OUR MIX OF ENGINEERING TA L E N T, D E D I C AT E D R & D , A N D C O U R A G E T O D E V E L O P W H AT D O E S N ’ T Y E T E X I S T W I L L A L L O W U S T O S H A P E A M O R E S U S TA I N A B L E , C I R C U L A R , A N D R E S I L I E N T F U T U R E – B OT H I N WA S T E M A N A G E M E N T A N D G R E E N ENERGY PRODUCTION” – D R D A N I C A M A L J K O V I Ć , H E A D O F B U S I N E S S D E V E L O P M E N T, DO-KING ENERGO

“Even in the best-run operations, underground working conditions remain extreme – that’s why the shift to electric machinery is so critical. It’s not just about reducing toxic fumes and noise levels, but cutting the cost and complexity of ventilation infrastructure,” Petro highlights.

No longer viewed as a mechanism of the future, electric machinery in mining is already proving to be smarter, more reliable, efficient, and eco-friendly.

Accordingly, the division’s NRE fleet is fully electric and emission-free, 14 | Mining Outlook Issue 11

indicating an industry-wide departure from diesel-based equipment.

“I firmly believe it is only a matter of time before electric becomes the standard and not the alternative. The mine offers a perfect environment to accelerate this transition,” Petro asserts.

Indeed, a mine site provides a long-term construction site with fixed infrastructure which is ideally suited for electric heavy machinery.

“It’s a natural symbiosis – the mine needs cleaner, quieter, smarter tools, and electric technology needs

Equipped with a steadfast mission, DOK-ING Mining is now recognised as a leader in innovative ultra-low and extra-low profile mining solutions, expanding the division’s presence rapidly across the globe.

With its eyes set on South America as a new frontier and its extra lowprofile technology gaining traction in Canada, DOK-ING Mining’s solutions are ready to deliver on the complex demands of international mining markets.

Such targets will be reached by staying true to its founding mission, expanding its product portfolio, and delivering new technologies designed specifically for the world’s hardest-toaccess ore bodies.

“R&D has always been at the core of DOK-ING, and we’re committed to carrying that legacy forward by pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, one breakthrough at a time,” Petro states.

As such, DOK-ING Mining is building a future where mining is no longer seen as dangerous or outdated, but as a space of innovation, safety, and high efficiency.

DOK-ING EUROPE & MIDDLE EAST

OVERCOMING ENERGY OBSTACLES Another subsidiary of the organisation, DOK-ING Energo endeavours to tackle Europe’s energy and waste challenges.

The division’s initial focus revolved around helping cities solve their waste management problems.

However, as the use of hydrogen gained prominence, DOK-ING Energo broadened its approach to cater to industry evolutions.

Case in point, the EU is working hard to accelerate its hydrogen economy, facilitating strong research networks, funding programmes, and ambitious climate targets.

A number of industry-wide steps are needed to develop this further, such as a robust market network, clear regulations, targeted incentives, and strategic support for small to medium-sized enterprises.

Croatia specifically requires greater cooperation between industry, academia, and policymakers if its hydrogen use is to take centre stage.

Although the nation’s regulatory framework for such is still being developed – creating market uncertainty – platforms including the Croatian Chamber of Commerce’s Croatian Hydrogen Group indicate a domestic hydrogen ecosystem that can contribute meaningfully to the broader European strategy.

In light of this, DOK-ING Energo operates across both the energy and waste sectors in order to combat these adversities.

During the hydrogen production process, the division discovered a carbon-rich by-product of its system could be used in industries such as brick production, which improves the properties of bricks.

DOK-ING Energo has also developed water purification systems for water used in the Looper system – which converts non-recyclable waste into clean hydrogen – because it wants to follow circular economy principles in every aspect.

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DOK-ING Energo’s Looper system

“Ultimately, we are working towards creating a system that can power itself, therefore contributing to its own energy self-sufficiency.

“This circular approach focuses on energy, waste, water, and materials, and is what sets us apart from other energy tech companies,” outlines Dr Danica Maljković, Head of Business Development at DOK-ING Energo.

FACILITATING CLEAN ENERGY A landmark technological innovation, DOK-ING Energo’s Looper system

can process non-recyclable waste such as textiles and other contaminated organic matter through a thermochemical process that generates synthesis gas.

From this gas, the division extracts hydrogen whilst carbon from feedstock remains trapped in solid residue.

“As such, Looper is a unique technology because it simultaneously addresses two major global challenges – waste management and clean energy production,” Maljković voices.

DOK-ING EUROPE & MIDDLE EAST

SPECIALIST IN HOT FORGING

ZDRAVKA GUBAŠA 6 10430 SAMOBOR CROATIA info@metalprom.hr

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DOK-ING EUROPE & MIDDLE EAST

During his recent visit to its facility, Wopke Hoekstra, European Commissioner for Climate, Net Zero, and Clean Growth, acknowledged the technology’s strategic value and praised its commercial and geopolitical potential in the energy sector.

“This kind of recognition is vital for us as it confirms Looper is not just a scientific innovation, but a technology with real market relevance and societal value,” she points out.

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Indeed, the system’s modularity, mobility, and scalability make it highly appealing across multiple sectors. In fact, Looper offers a potentially more cost-effective alternative to hydrogen via electrolysis, particularly when waste reduction is taken into account.

DOK-ING Energo has already explored Looper’s implementation in waste management systems, wastewater treatment facilities, the textile industry, military camps, utility

companies, airports, and remote locations, alongside many other uses.

“Basically, wherever people generate organic waste, which is nearly everywhere, Looper has the potential to be implemented.”

Notably, the technology also has the ability to create real societal impact, reflected in the Humana Nova cooperative in Čakovec, where Looper was deployed to convert textile waste for heating.

DOK-ING EUROPE & MIDDLE EAST

“This project was particularly meaningful because it showed how our technology could directly benefit vulnerable groups in society. It’s a powerful example of how innovation can serve environmental and social goals at the same time,” Maljković tells us.

FACILITATING CLEAN ENERGY In the next five years, DOK-ING Energo strives to become a recognised name in Europe’s green transition, particularly in the field of waste to hydrogen process solutions.

“Our goal is to not only bring technologies like Looper to the market but also demonstrate that

a company from Croatia can play a serious role in solving some of the world’s most complex environmental challenges,” Dr Maljković emphasizes.

The division is already experiencing an increased interest from international partners and institutions, which is essential for mutual learning, knowledge sharing, and global market visibility.

However, Maljković believes there is still room for the greater promotion of Croatian energy production across Europe.

“I believe our mix of engineering talent, dedicated R&D, and courage to develop what doesn’t yet exist will

allow us to shape a more sustainable, circular, and resilient future – both in waste management and green energy production,” she concludes.

Equipped with a strong union of three powerful divisions, DOK-ING is ultimately set to achieve significant growth and become an international market leader in robotics and autonomous systems.

Tel: +385 1 2481-300 info@dok-ing.hr

dok-ing.hr Mining Outlook Issue 11 | 19

Slavonska avenija 22 G, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia, Europe Tel: +385 1 2481-300 info@dok-ing.hr

dok-ing.hr

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