The Future of Geometallurgy

Geometallurgy is an interdisciplinary research field concerned with the planning, monitoring, and optimization of mineral resource extraction and processing. Geometallurgy requires a quantitative understanding of primary resource characteristics such as mineralogical composition and texture, the distribution and variability of these characteristics across the target ore body, and how these interact with mining and beneficiation processes.  This requires accurate analytical data for resource characterization, a detailed under­standing of ore body geology, process technology, economics, and the often­complex interactions between them.

Complex, polymetallic, lower-grade and deeper mineral deposits are forecast to be the future source of the metals and minerals required to decarbonise the global economy. The sustainable and economic extraction of these minerals will require the expert application of geometallurgy across the mining value chain, from concept through to closure.   However, geometallurgy is unique amongst disciplines in that it does not have a broad and deep external ecosystem that extends from academia through research institutes, member-led industry bodies, mining companies, testing laboratories, software developers and consultants. Rather, it is defined by loosely connected pockets of excellence and innovative adaptation.  

In a keynote lecture at November's Process Mineralogy '24 in Cape Town, Stewart Brand will suggest that a new approach to geometallurgy is required if we are to successfully mine the complex orebodies of the future. The substantial technical challenges ahead require a step change increase in collaboration and creativity to leverage collective knowledge and drive innovation. We will need to deliberately nurture the external ecosystems that are required to support and develop geometallurgy into a broad and deep discipline. Stewart Brand is Principal - Global Geometallurgy at BHP, Australia where he leads strategic geometallurgy projects and supports geometallurgical teams around the world. 

The fundamental concepts of geometallurgy are explored in the December 2023 issue of Elements, an international magazine of mineralogy, geochemistry and petrology. Guest editors Max Frenzel, Raimon Tolosana-Delgado, and Jens Gutzmer review how current geometallurgical research is opening up opportunities for geoscientists to generate better economic and environmental outcomes for the global raw materials industry as part of a sustainable economy. 

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