Per: FERNANDO ALVES CANTINI CARDOZO (UNIVERSIDADE FEDERAL DO RIO GRANDE DO SU), Higor José Silva Campos (UFRGS), Carlos Otávio Petter (UFRGS), Vinícius Matheus Lenz (UFRGS)
Abstract:
Select the appropriate mining method is one of the main challenges faced in conceptual mining projects. This decision has a significant impact on the economic viability, operational efficiency, and environmental sustainability of the project. This paper aims to present techniques and methodology for choosing the optimal mining method for conceptual mining projects. Different aspects to be considered are covered, such as the geological characteristics of the mineral deposit, economic aspects, environmental and operational constraints, among others. The main methodologies for selecting the optimal mining method are presented. Traditional selection methods, such as those proposed by Nicholas (1981) and Nicholas (1992), as well as the University of British Columbia (UBC) method and the Shahriar and Bakhtavar (Sh&B) method, are discussed.