Polish copper giant constructs Europe's largest mine

Photo - sxc.hu

Some 700 million zloty (about 171.6 million euro) are being invested in the project, and the company aims to reach a depth of 1319 metres.

However, for the mine to be effectively constructed, temperatures will have to be lowered considerably so as to prevent the shaft caving in and getting flooded with surface water.

This freezing process aims to bring temperatures at the bottom down to 15 degrees Celsius.

Only once the drilling, sealing and strengthening of the mine has been completed can the thawing process begin, with this final phase predicted to last some two years.

KGHM Polska Miedz is the largest employer in Lower Silesia and one of the world's leading producers of copper and silver.

The company is one of Poland's most significant exporters, with materials sold across the globe. (nh)