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The mining industry generally sees the evaluation of lower grade, and more heterogeneous and

complex deposits. In this context, geometallurgy seeks to integrate geoscientific disciplines with

minerals and mining engineering. It aims to understand orebody variability, underpinned by

characterisation data such as mineralogy, geochemistry, grade and physical rock properties obtained

from spatially distributed samples.

Geometallurgy is an important addition to any project evaluation or mining operation. As a

discipline, it seeks to maximise the Net Present Value of an orebody, while minimising technical and

operational risk. It also aims to promote sustainable development by ensuring that all stages of

extraction are performed in an optimal manner from a technical, environmental and social

perspective. Geometallurgical practice improves stakeholder collaboration and communication,

creating an environment for knowledge sharing and improved data acquisition. The end result, is the

integration of data into 3D models to optimise mine planning and scheduling. These aspects create

better business optimisation, utilisation of staff and targeted and realistic key performance

indicators.

The objective of this seminar is to introduce attendees to the concept of geometallurgy and

emphasise the importance of early stage ore/waste characterisation programmes.