Enhancing Nickel Laterite Resource Estimation: Differentiating Earthy and Rocky Saprolite using Implicit Modeling Techniques
Muhammad Luthfi (a*), Muhammad Alibasya (b)

a) PT. SMG Consultants Indonesia
*muhammad.luthfi[at]smgc.co.id
b) PT. Bahana Selaras Alam

Abstract

Nickel laterite deposits are essential for nickel supply, critical for various industries including stainless steel production and battery manufacturing. Simplified geological models of these deposits often simplify the stratigraphy into three main layers: Limonite, Saprolite, and Bedrock. This simplification can result in inadequate resource estimation, suboptimal mining strategies, and ultimately destroy value. This study aims to improve geological modeling of nickel laterite deposits by distinguishing the saprolite into Earthy Saprolite and Rocky Saprolite using implicit modeling techniques with Radial Basis Function (RBF) interpolation. Detailed field sample descriptions were utilized to accurately identify and model the presence of rocky saprolite within the saprolite layer. The refined model was compared to the conventional approach, demonstrating significant improvements. At an average ore grade of 1.7% Ni, our model results in 14.2% more tonnes of estimated ore. These enhancements are attributed to the model^s ability to capture greater geological variability and reduce the smoothing of grade distributions. Consequently, this refined modeling approach offers more reliable resource assessments and optimized mining strategies, enhancing the economic viability of nickel laterite mining projects. The findings underscore the importance of detailed geological modeling in improving resource estimation and maximizing economic returns in mining operations.

Keywords: Nickel Laterite- Rocky Saprolite - Radial Basis Function - Refined Model

Topic: Geodynamic and subsurface geology