SALINA, Kan. (AP) — A new research center in Salina will help industry leaders figure out the best ways to handle bulk solids such as sugar, salt, chemicals and plastics.

The $4.7 million, 13,000-square-foot Kansas State Bulk Solids Innovation Center officially opened on Thursday. It includes five smaller laboratories and a full-scale lab, which includes a 60-foot silo with sensors and removable sections to study storing and moving solid bulk items.

The Salina Journal reports it is the only such research center in the Western Hemisphere, with similar centers in Scotland, England and Australia.

Supporters say the center has already attracted interest from industry leaders.

The center is expected to bring about 40 jobs to Salina and provide educational work opportunities for students.