Minera Leonor - Copper Mine Feasability Study
- Owner: Compania Contractural Minera Leonor
- Project: Copper Mining Feasibility
- Location: Leonor, Chile
- Scope: Bankable Feasibility Study
Project Background
Roberts & Schaefer Company was commissioned to provide a bankable feasibility study for a copper project situated in the Atacama Desert region of Northern Chile. The project was characterized by remote, arid conditions without nearby infrastructure.
Following completion of a geological resource model based on exploration drill hole logs and the development of a mining plan, both by consultants, Roberts & Schaefer Company initiated the feasibility study with development of conceptual flowsheets. Due to the difficult leaching character of some ore types, additional metallurgical testing was recommended.
A metallurgical test program was developed and supervised by Roberts & Schaefer Company. The testing included supervision of sample collection and resulted in the identification of a heretofore unknown mineral. A process was developed that increased recovery by 10 to 20 percent over conventional techniques. Designs were sufficient for production of 30,000 tons of cathode copper per year. Complete flowsheets, mass balances, equipment lists, general arrangements and P&IDs were prepared for the project.
Initial project capital was estimated to be US $100 million. Project capital cost estimates were confirmed with local quotations. The feasibility study was reviewed by an independent engineer representing the financial institution and was approved. The feasibility study allowed the client to negotiate a joint venture agreement with a Chilean company holding the surrounding property. A significantly larger project resulted from the joint venture with the client taking a junior position.