The impact of ore recovery uncertainty in geometallurgy

Mining systems are complex to model since they involve (1) creating adequate representations on how sub-models (mining processes) are interconnected (the ore/waste flowcharts) and (2) there is a lack of understanding of the impact that small variations have over the entirely system. Moreover, developing adequate models requires the use of modern predictive tools that account for high dimensional and big data information, for instance remote sensed geochemical ore composition and laboratory test responses. Although such digital twins intuitively seem the best option, is uncommon to find them used in real mine projects. Even more, it is still unusual to find mine projects developed under a unified mining system concept. The aims of this project are (1) to present and prove a suitable representation of mining processes, centered in the mine planning and design stage, and (2) to quantify the impact of small disturbances in the ore recovery prediction into the mine plan. By doing so, we deliver proof that uncertainty quantification in mining systems is feasible and profitable. Results will be presented in internal reports and conference articles.

Faculty Supervisor:

Julian Maximiliano Ortiz Cabrera

Student:

Partner:

Technische Universität Bergakademie Freiberg

Discipline:

Earth science

Sector:

Mining; Natural Resources; Environmental Science and Technology

University:

Queen's University

Program: