Shining a new light on mining: developing spectral metrics for decision support in mining exploration and operation

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For mining exploration firms and mine operators limited near real-time knowledge of the characteristics of geologic materials manipulated in and around mines impedes the development of efficiencies during exploration and mine exploitation. This applies to the characteristics of drill core, the quality of ore and froth, and the state of tailings. A long-term goal of my program is to meet these needs by conducting fundamental research in the analysis of hyperspectral imagery and later work the findings into an enabling technology. Thus I will conduct studies focusing on three themes: (i) the characterization of drill core mineralogy, (ii) the detection of mine wall alteration and characterization of the ore,  and (iii) the characterization of tailings mineralogy and evaporative state. Integration of these themes along with recent progress from imaging of flotation processes has the potential to provide completely new near real-time decision pathways in mines (from drill core, mine walls to tailings) and in many instances new views of deposits.    To develop the real time characterization of drill core for a range of metrics I will focus on these fundamental research questions: i) Can one predict bulk rock major element geochemistry from imaging spectroscopy? If so which elements provide strong predictions.  The outcome would be an ability to invert spectral imagery (mm resolution) into geochemical predictors enabling vectoring investigations at a range of scales; ii) Beginning with oilsands, can on detect the presence and abundance of swelling clays in core and ore? Swelling clays in flotation cells and tailings can have a detrimental effect on process performance. To develop mine wall spectral imaging I will start by using a model that I developed to predict bitumen content from spectra of crushed oil sand ore and aim to adapt it to imagery of mine wall. I will need to develop methods for the calibration of mine wall imagery where the deployment of calibration targets can be challenging and a safety concern.  This research will guide the selection of imaging platforms that will operate in mines.  Lastly I will develop models to predict tailings characteristics. Fluid fine tailings are a costly mining and environmental challenge. My research aims to constrain where the tailings material lies on the drying curve without putting people at risk. Laboratory work has led to moisture estimation models using spectra from tailings samples. To ultimately develop operational monitoring fundamental research is required on how these models perform in outdoor conditions at tailing ponds, when the illumination field and other environmental variables degrade.