Skip to main content

Publication sale now on, get up to 70% off

Conference Proceedings

35th APCOM Symposium 2011

Conference Proceedings

35th APCOM Symposium 2011

Publication sale now on, get up to 70% off

PDF Add to cart

The Effects of Considering the Spatial Bulk Density Variability in Mineral Resources and Reserves

Currently mineral resources evaluation is firstly expressed in terms of volume. Next the resources are transformed into tonnes by using an average bulk density applied to the whole deposit or, in some other circumstances, various different densities to distinct geological domains. Previous work in uranium, copper and nickel deposits used linear correlation between grades and bulk density to derive the density. Geophysics methods are also another good way to obtain density indirectly.These approaches do not take into account that two samples with the same grade but with different bulk densities can characterise different sample supports, leading to severe bias in grade and tonne estimates. It is important that the systematic measurements of bulk density are included into the estimation process, particularly when density is not correlated with the grades. Additionally, the extra time and costs involved in obtaining the bulk density data have made the mining industry disregard it.This study reports the impact in resource estimates by using a methodology that includes the bulk density variability. It involves the determination of a variability model for the bulk density and another model for the composite that was weighted by density as well as by its length. Next, these variables are estimated by kriging and the final grade estimates are obtained. The tonnages are obtained with the bulk density estimates. The conventional methodology was also applied and both estimates are compared to the reconciliation data from a major copper deposit. The results show a significant difference between the tonnage and grade estimates obtained from these two methodologies.The results show that considering density variability when compositing leads to a more accurate methodology resulting in better grade and tonnage estimates locally and globally.
Return to parent product
  • The Effects of Considering the Spatial Bulk Density Variability in Mineral Resources and Reserves
    PDF
    This product is exclusive to Digital library subscription
  • The Effects of Considering the Spatial Bulk Density Variability in Mineral Resources and Reserves
    PDF
    Normal price $22.00
    Member price from $0.00
    Add to cart

    Fees above are GST inclusive

PD Hours
Approved activity
  • Published: 2011
  • PDF Size: 0.134 Mb.
  • Unique ID: P201111008

Our site uses cookies

We use these to improve your browser experience. By continuing to use the website you agree to the use of cookies.