ANNUAL REPORT - AMIRA International

ANNUAL REPORT

2012–2013

AMIRA INTERNAT IONAL L IM ITED

AMIRA International Limited ABN: 60 176 687 975 ACN: 004 448 266

AGM NotificationThe AMIRA International Limited Annual General Meeting will be held on Wednesday

4 December 2013 at 8:30am at MMG, 28 Freshwater Place, Southbank, Victoria.

Our VisionAMIRA International is a member-driven resources industry organisation that is an

essential part of our Member’s search for innovative solutions that add value.

Our MissionWe provide access for our Members to valued solutions through connecting research

infrastructure to the needs of our Members and supporting that infrastructure’s growth.

Our ValuesZero Harm: To ourselves, others and the environment

Creativity: The essences of innovation

Excellence: The standard we set for ourselves in all we do

Ethical Behaviour: We demonstrate integrity, transparency and sensitivity

in all our activities

Collaboration: We respect cultural and individual differences of all participants

and work together to achieve mutually rewarding results.

Key StrategiesBuilding Relationships: Nurturing and developing the global resources industry

network for our Members and the research community

Delivering Value: Maximise the benefit of our services to all our stakeholders

Success Through People: Ensuring attraction and retention of energetic talented people

2 ACHIEVEMENT THROUGH LEADERSHIP AND COLLABORATION

Cover image: Flinders Rangers (Provided by Scarlett Blewett)

This image: Kagbeni, Nepal (Provided by Scarlett Blewett)

ANNUAL REPORT 2012–2013

Contents

Overview 4

Chairman’s Report 6

Board Of Directors 8

Managing Director’s Report 10

Organisation Chart 12

Project Statistics 14

2012 – 2013 Member Listing 15

2012 – 2013 Researcher Listing 16

Projects Index 19

Data Metallogenica 48

AMIRA Offices Back Cover

3


4 OVERVIEW

AMIRA International is a member based organisation of mineral companies and suppliers, which develops, brokers and facilitates collaborative research projects.

Our business platform is to strengthen the businesses of our members by assisting their development and uptake of leading edge science and technology by:

• Creatingsponsorteamsofmembercompaniestosharethecosts and the benefits of selected research projects

• Workingwiththebestresearchersaroundtheworld

• Nurturingandsustainingresearchresourcesforindustrybenefit

• Formallyrepresentingtheindustryinareasimportanttoourmembers

• Providingaforumforindustrytomeet,networkandcooperateinareas of mutual interest

While AMIRA International does not in general carry out research itself, we broker collaborative projects between industry and world-leading researchers.

Our projects are funded by joint sponsorship from member companies. However we also leverage these funds by applying for government grants where appropriate. Our main role is to identify, develop and oversee these projects to ensure that project outcomes match sponsors expectations.

The Project Portfolio currently encompasses 25 projects with about:

• AU$55millionportfoliovalue

• AU$10millionnewindustryfunds


5

AMIRA INTERNATIONAL IS AN INDEPENDENT MEMBER BASED ORGANISATION OF MINERAL COMPANIES AND SUPPLIERS, CREATED TO IDENTIFY, DEVELOP, BROKER AND OVERSEE COLLABORATIVE MULTI-COMPANY RESEARCH PROJECTS THAT BENEFIT OUR MEMBERS.

Lolotoi Metamorphic Complex, Manatuto District, East Timor (Provided by Oskar Lindenmayer)


6 CHAIRMAN’S REPORT

This last year has been a difficult year for the mining industry. Companies continue to review their research spend as they seek to extract more value from their assets. Although this brings challenges to AMIRA and its research partners, it also presents an opportunity for increased industry-wide collaboration, that it should facilitate.

In line with its members AMIRA has instituted cost control measures during the year; these have ensured a positive outcome for the fourth successive year. Also during the year we reached a significant milestone with a total of 696 projects successfully completed since 1960. These projects would not have been possible without the energy, enthusiasm and dedication of AMIRA’s staff over the years and the world class research institutions that we have partnered with. AMIRA’s contribution and the vision of its founders was a cornerstone in advancing the Australian mining industry into a position of world leadership in many areas and now in serving its members throughout the world as well as assisting to build and nurture research capacity where needed.

Despite the general slump in commodity prices during the year, it is pleasing to see that companies continued to invest in collaborative research. This is evidenced by twelve companies supporting the continuing project series P420E Gold Processing Technology, which commenced in April 2013, and the support for the project P1087 Integrated Tailings Management which also commenced during the year.

On the strategic front, during the year AMIRA embarked on a series of developments. One such is AMIRA’s Low Grade Copper Program aimed at changing the economic viability of low grade ore resources. While the program has an initial copper focus, the projects have significant application potential to other commodities including nickel, uranium and gold.

We will continue to work with our many research partners around the world, whilst at the same time developing new partnerships, to ensure that the AMIRA team develop world-class research to address the challenges of our members.


7

Membership numbers have held reasonably steady despite the difficult industry situation. At the end of the financial year we had a total of 94 members one less than the previous year. This comes after some 45% growth in membership since 2009. A significant part of the growth has come from the mining equipment, technology and services sector and which currently make up some 35% of the total membership.

During the year, and for the first time, a special Supplier Member only forum was convened. The forum was convoked in recognition of the important role this sector plays in many AMIRA projects. The forum provided an important opportunity for members to discuss issues around engagement and participation in projects. Several important messages came out of the forum which I am pleased to say we are already acting on. We intend to hold the forum annually.

During the year the Board composition changed as we bid farewell and express appreciation for their service to Mr Renato Costa (Vale), Dr Natalia Streltsova (Vale), Dr Juan Carlos Salas (AMSA), Mr Mick Henderson (Russell Mineral Equipment), Mr Marcelo Bastos (MMG), Mr Kent Hoots (Boart Longyear) and Mr Laurie Stonehouse (Alcoa).

This was Mr Stonehouse’s second stint on the Board having served previously between 2002 and 2005. Mr Storehouse has retired from Alcoa and on behalf of the Board and AMIRA we thank him for his service and wish him well for the future.

We welcome Mr Gustavo Gomez (MMG), Mr Alan Muir (AngloGold Ashanti) and Dr John Russell (Russell Mineral Equipment) to the Board.

AMIRA continues to enjoy the support of its members through their representation on the Board. We are grateful to Board members for volunteering their valuable time.

We will continue to work with our many research partners around the world, whilst at the same time developing new partnerships, to ensure that the AMIRA team develop world-class research to address the challenges of our members.

Neville Plint Chairman of the Board AMIRA International Limited


8 BOARD OF DIRECTORSAS AT 30 JUNE 2013

Neville Plint Chairman

Aubrey Paverd Vice - Chairman Joe Pease

Peter Kondos Marinus Du Plessis Ian Sandl

Peter Lilly Gustavo Gomes Alan Muir


9

Walter Valery Rick Gilbert

Laurie Stonehouse Dave Bentley

John Russell Joe Cucuzza


10 MANAGING DIRECTOR’S REPORT

During the year two major initiatives commenced. P420E Gold Processing Technology and P1087 Integrated Tailings Management. The former is the most recent in a series of AMIRA gold research projects which have operated almost continuously since 1983, commencing with P173 Carbon-in-Pulp Technology – properties of activated carbon fouling, regeneration (1984-86) at Murdoch University. The first project in the P420 series started in March 1994 led by Dr Steve la Brooy followed by Prof Ian Ritchie then with the A J Parker Cooperative Research Centre. Murdoch University and CSIRO were involved in this project through the CRC with in-kind contributions from BRGM, University of Laval and Curtin University. Subsequently Bill Staunton became manager of P420A project in 1997 and remained leader for the successive projects until he stepped down a year and a half ago. The project is now led by Prof. Jacques Eksteen.

Interest in reducing the technical uncertainty around paste and thickened tailings technologies, led to nine companies, three being suppliers, supporting the new project P1087 Integrated Tailings Management. The project is a collaboration between CSIRO, University of WA, Monash University and ATC Williams Pty Ltd. The latter is a private company with global expertise in mine tailings storage and management. This project is a good example of a supplier being directly involved with the research program.

Work on a number of key strategic initiatives commenced during the year. One that I wish to highlight is the Low Grade Copper Program. This program has been developed in response to the:

• large,andgrowing,inventoryoflowgradecopperresourcesthat fall below the cut-off grade for conventional concentrate production, and

• relativelypoormetalrecoveryfromheapleaching,particularlyfor primary sulphide minerals such as chalcopyrite.

There are challenging times ahead but with the dedicated and enthusiastic people that we have in AMIRA, the portfolio of projects that we are developing along with the partnerships that we have cultivated in the research community, AMIRA is well positioned to serve its members through this cyclic downturn and beyond.


11

It is our view that successful development and deployment of new technology in this area will generate huge economic impact by making extraction of low grade copper resources viable. The Low Grade Copper Program comprises four related projects: Heap leach scale-up for liquid and gas dispersion; Continuous saturated coarse particle (Vat) leaching; In-situ fracture stimulation and leaching; and Micro-capsule leaching.

Proposals were also circulated on several important new and extension projects. These include: P1031 Uranium, copper and precious metals in oxidising sedimentary basins: controls on ore formation and location; P934B West African Exploration Initiative Stage 3; P705C Improving base metal electrowinning; and P933B Long-Term Acid Rock and Tailings Drainage Mitigation through Source Control. We expect these projects to attract support and start in the coming year.

Like many of our members during the year we reviewed expenditures and implemented cost control initiatives which helped us achieve a modest surplus. For example, the finance team was re-structured following the implementation of a cloud based enterprise resource planning software resulting in significant efficiencies and cost reductions. It is worth noting that this was the first time in many years that an operational surplus was achieved without the significant contribution of the upward revaluation of investments. This result has further strengthened the balance sheet and will help position AMIRA well in the face of uncertain economic winds.

This year saw new staff joining AMIRA. We welcomed Dr Chris du Plessis as Program Manager – Extractive Metallurgy/Mineral Processing based in Perth. Chris brings significant expertise in the metallurgical area as well as energy and enthusiasm. Chris also manages the Strategic Business Development Group. Dr Robert Gee was appointed as a part time consultant Program Manager in January based in Newcastle. Unfortunately, Robert accepted a full time position at ANSTO in June. We wish Robert all the very best in his new position and look forward cultivating new partnerships together.

There are challenging times ahead but with the dedicated and enthusiastic people that we have in AMIRA, the portfolio of projects that we are developing along with the partnerships that we have cultivated in the research community, AMIRA is well positioned to serve its members through this cyclic downturn and beyond.

Joe Cucuzza Managing Director AMIRA International Limited


12 ORGANISATION CHART

Daniel VertesFinancial Controller, HR Manager

& Company Secretary

Imran HussainInformation & Communications Technology Manager

Chris WardProgram Director

Yen WooFinance Officer

Terry BradenProgram Manager & North America Regional Manager

Ileana InocencioProject Support Officer

Gray BaileyProgram Manager

Donna CopolovProject Support Officer

Bernard XuAssistant Program

Manager

Ann WoolleyProject Support Officer

(South Africa)

Enrique CarreteroProgram Manager & Latin America Regional Manager

Mary Ann TironaProject Support Officer

Jacqueline RussellProject Support Officer

(Chile)

Mineral Processing & Extractive MetallurgyIT & CommunicationsFinance, HR & Legal

Katie LeggeExecutive Assistant

Joe CucuzzaManaging Director


13

VacantProgram Director

Alan GoodeDirector Data Metallogenica

Matthew DalzielProgram Manager

Adele SeymonProgram Manager

Kriba ReddyProgram Manager &

Africa Regional Manager

Advisors & Consultants

Olga VerezubStrategic Business

Development Coordinator

Strategic Business Development Exploration, Mining & Sustainability

Chris du PlessisManager Strategic Business Development

& Program Manager

Philip McInerneyConsultant Program

Manager

Edmundo TulcanazaConsultant Program

Manager

Ray ShawChief

Technology Advisor


14 PROJECT STATISTICSAS AT 30 JUNE 2013

2013 2012

AU$000 AU$000

TOTAL RESEARCH COMMITMENT

Geoscience 13,016 13,146

Mine Engineering 2,472 2,385

Mineral Processing 22,122 22,934

Extractive Metallurgy 6,521 8,195

Sustainability - 1,134

Multi-Disciplinary 10,704 11,370

TOTAL 54,835 59,164

ANNUAL RESEARCH SPENDING (BY MARKET)

Geoscience 3,154 4,235

Mine Engineering 522 661

Mineral Processing 4,344 3,559

Extractive Metallurgy 1,711 1,956

Sustainability 165 413

Multi Disciplinary 2,785 2,371

TOTAL 12,681 13,195

ANNUAL RESEARCH SPENDING (BY RESEARCHER TYPE)

Universities 6,460 6,320

CSIRO 2,634 1,092

CRC 2,587 4,875

Other 1,000 907

TOTAL 12,681 13,194

Project Numbers Number Number

Contracts in progress 25 54,835 31 59,164

Contracts commenced and additional sponsors 9 9,708 7 19,488

Contracts Completed 11 14,037 8 27,600

MEMBERSHIP

Members 94 95


152012 – 2013MEMBER LISTING

SUPPLIERSABITIBI Geophysique Inc

Australian Gold Reagents Pty Ltd

Australian Laboratory Services Pty Ltd

BASF Australia Ltd

Boart Longyear Pty Ltd

CAE Mining Corporate Ltd

Cytec Australia Holdings Pty Ltd

FL Smidth Minerals Inc

Gekko Systems Pty Ltd

Geophysical Resources & Services Pty Ltd

Hatch Australia Pty Ltd

Industrie De Nora S.p.a.

INPPAMET Ltda

ioGlobal Pty Ltd

KEMIRA Chemicals Inc

Kemix (Pty) Ltd

KHUMSUP Pty Ltd

Magotteaux Pty Ltd

Metso Corporation

Nalco Australia Pty Ltd

Orica Limited

Outer-Rim Exploration Services Pty Ltd

Outotec Oyj

Quantec Geoscience Ltd

QG Pty Ltd

RSR Technologies Inc

Russell Mineral Equipment Pty Ltd

Senmin South Africa (Pty) Ltd

SGS Australia Pty Ltd

Tenova Mining & Minerals

WesTech Engineering Inc

Zonge International Inc

PRODUCERS

Alcoa Inc

Anglo American Platinum Limited

AngloGold Ashanti Limited

Antofagasta Minerals S.A.

Auginish Alumina Limited

Avocet Mining plc

Barrick Gold Corporation

BHP Billiton Limited

Boliden Minerals AB

Cameco Corporation

Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd

Codelco

Compania de Minas Buenaventura S.A.A.

Eldorado Gold Corporation

Evolution Mining Limited

Exxaro Resources Limited

First Quantum Minerals Ltd

Fortescue Metals Group

Freeport McMoRan Mining Company

GFL Mining Services Limited

Glencore Xstrata plc

Golden Star Resources Ltd

Gryphon Minerals Limited

Harmony Gold Mining Company Ltd

Hydro Aluminium AS

Impala Platinum Ltd

IAMGOLD Corporation

Independence Group NL

Issara Mining Limited

Kinross Gold Corporation

LKAB

Lonmin plc

Lundin Mining Corporation

Minerals and Metals Group Ltd

Newcrest Mining Limited

Newmont Australia Limited

Northern Star Resources Ltd

OZ Minerals Limited

Randgold Resources Limited

Resolute Mining Limited

Rio Tinto Limited

Roy Hill Holdings Pty Ltd

Semafo Inc

Servicios Industriales Penoles

Shell Canada Energy

St Barbara Limited

Teck Resources Limited

Total E & P Canada Ltd

Vale S.A.

Votorantim Metais Ltda

INDIVIDUAL MEMBERS

Essel Mining & Industries Inc

G-Resources Group Limited

Hidden Valley Services Limited

Minera San Crisobal S.A.

Queensland Alumina Ltd

JUNIOR EXPLORERSAzumah Resources Limited

Castle Peak Mining Ltd

Drake Resources Limited

Intrepid Mines Limited

Regis Resources Limited

SIPA Resources Limited

Volta Resources Inc


16 2012 – 2013 RESEARCHER LISTINGAarhus University

Alford Mining Systems

AMC Consultants Pty Ltd

ARC Centre of Excellence in Ore Deposits (CODES) - University of Tasmania

ATC Williams Pty Ltd

Australian National University

Boojum Research

Bureau de Recherches Geologiques et Minieres (BRGM)

Centre for Exploration Targeting - University of Western Australia

Centre for Mined Land Rehabilitation

Centre for Sustainable Resource Processing CRC

Chalmers University

Colorado School of Mines

CRC for Optimising Resource Extraction

CSIRO - Earth Science and Resource Engineering

CSIRO Minerals Down Under Flagship

CSIRO Process Science and Engineering

Curtin University of Technology

Czech Geological Survey

Deep Exploration Technologies Cooperative Research Centre

Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies (DIAS)

Ecole Nationale d’Ingeneurs

Fullagar Geophysics Pty Ltd

Hacettepe University

Ian Wark Research Institute (IWRI)

Imperial College of Science, Technology & Medicine

Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD)

Julius Kruttschnitt Mineral Research Centre - University of Queensland

Lakehead University

Levay & Co Environmental Services

Monash University

Murdoch University

Nancy Université

RMIT University

Sustainable Minerals Institute - University of Queensland

TechnoImaging Inc

Tunra Bulk Solids Handling Research Associates - University of Newcastle

Universidad de Concepción

Universidade de Sao Paulo

Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro

Université de Toulouse

Université d’Orléans

Université Montpellier

University of Adelaide

University of Auckland

University of Cape Town

University of Melbourne

University of Oklahoma

University of Ouagadougou

University of South Australia

University of Tasmania

University of the Witwatersrand

University of Utah

University of Western Australia

US Geological Survey

Vernadsky Institute (Moscow)

W H Bryan Mining Geology Research Centre - University of Queensland


17

Copper IsaSmeltTM plant at Mopani Copper Mines in Zambia (Provided by Glencore Xstrata)


18 PROJECTS

Flinders Ranges (Provided by Scarlett Blewett)


19INDEXGEOSCIENCE

P778A Predictive Exploration Geochemistry in Transported Overburden II

P934A West African Exploration Initiative - Stage 2

P1004A DET CRC Implementation

P1022 Rapid Inversion of TEM Data

P1036A Airborne Induced Polarisation - Stage 2

P1040 Building the Global Encyclopaedia of Ore Deposits

P1041 Application of New Technologies to Exploration of Gold Deposits

P1058 Spectral Induced Polarisation for 3D Mineral Discrimination

P1060 Enhanced Geochemical Targeting in Magmatic-Hydrothermal Systems

COMPLETED

P972 ATR Mineral Chemistry Applied to the Characterisation and Exploration of Andean Type Cu ± Au Ore Deposits

MINE ENGINEERING

P987 Scoping Study for ROES Development

P1037 Stope Optimisation and Stope Layout

P1043 Framework for Rapid Automated Underground Mine Optimisation

MINERAL PROCESSING

P009P Optimisation of Mineral Processing by Modelling and Simulation

P260F Influence of Process Mineralogy and Pulp Chemistry on the Flotation of Fine and Coarse Minerals

P266G Improving Thickener Technology

P1087 Integrated Tailings Management

COMPLETED

P498C Enhanced Selectivity in Flotation Using Polymers

P667B SAG Mill Monitoring Using Surface Vibrations

P968 Flotation of Copper in Saline Waters

P996 Advanced Instrumentation and Control Strategies for Optimising Thickeners

EXTRACTIVE METALLURGY

P420E Gold Processing

P507D Chemistry and Transport of Trace Elements in Bayer Liquors

P575C A Qualitative Investigation of Strength and Breakage Behaviour of SGA Produced from Refinery Hydrates

P705B Improved Anode and Cathode Processes in the Electrowinning of Base Metals

P1110 Geometallurgy Roadmap

COMPLETED

P420D Gold Processing Technology

P521D Quantifying the Effect of Solid Phase Oxalate (SPO) on Gibbsite Agglomeration

P986 Improving Agglomeration of Crushed Ore

MULTI-DISCIPLINARY

P843A Geometallurgical and Mine Modelling

P931A Reduced Erosion in Multiphase Flow

P1097 Systematic Evaluation of Transportable Moisture Limit Measurement Methods for Iron Ore Bulk Cargoes

COMPLETED

P599B High Concentration Suspension Pumping

SUSTAINABILITY

COMPLETED

P933A Alternative Treatment Options for Long Term ARD Control


20 GEOSCIENCEThe overall aim of this extension project is to develop guidelines for how, where and why to use biota, gas and/or other shallow sample media for mineral exploration in areas of transported overburden. The project builds on the results of P778 by undertaking further research into the biotic, gaseous and capillary mechanisms of vertical migration of metals from buried mineral deposits through transported overburden to surface in a variety of environments in Australia.

The principal deliverables of this new project will include continuous progress reports as well as technical reports describing the work completed at each study site.

A final project report describing the mechanistic models to account for observed metal migration or its absence, integrating all aspects of the study including different regolith and palaeo-climatic controls on migration, and variations with respect to different commodity elements will be prepared.

Research Providers

CSIRO Earth Science and Resource Engineering - Dr Ravi Anand; Curtin University of Technology

Value

USD$1,362,150

Commencement Date

November 2010

Duration

3 years

Program Manager

Adele Seymon

Sponsors

AngloGold Ashanti Australia Limited; Cameco Australia Pty Ltd; First Quantum Minerals Ltd; Independence Group (ex Jabiru Metals); Japan Oil, Gas and Metals National Corporation (JOGMEC); Newmont USA Limited; Regis Resources; SGS Minerals Services; Teck Resources Limited; Vale

P778A - Predictive Exploration Geochemistry inTransported Overburden II


21GEOSCIENCEThis project will build on Stage 1 of WAXI by developing a new geological framework to generate new exploration insights which will assist company sponsors to explore in this region.

The principal deliverables of this project will be:

• Acraton-scaleGISproductshowingthecraton-widegeophysicalstitches, sample locations, mineral deposits, interpretative layers of structures with fully attributed movement events, and the principal tectonic elements that control and divide domains of distinct mineralisation characteristics.

• Aspace-timechartcrosslinkedtotheGISshowingalloftheexisting and newly acquired geochronological data, with summaries of crustal growth, metamorphic, deformation and mineralisation events.

• Anunderstandingofthelandscapeevolutionandsurficialprocessescharacteristic of the particular climatic setting of West Africa over the last 60 Ma that will help to define exploration strategies for a wide variety of deposit types.

• TrainingofAfricanGeoscientistsinthetechniquesofexplorationgeology via a suite of six short courses over the life of the project, an annual symposium and workshops as necessary to facilitate transfer of knowledge of the outcomes of the project to sponsors.

• TrainingofyoungAfricanGeoscientistsviaasuiteofMScandPhDprojects directly funded by this project or in partnership with other funding sources.

• AnimprovedcapacityandconfidenceintheGeologicalSurveysandUniversities in West Africa to respond to the short and long term requirements of the minerals industry.

Research Providers

Centre for Exploration Targeting - University of Western Australia - Professor T. Campbell McCuaig; Czech Geological Survey; Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD) - Dr Mark Jessell; Nancy Universite; Université de Toulouse; Université d’Orléans; Université Montpellier; University of Ouagadougou - Professor Martin Lompo; University of the Witwatersrand - Professor Kim A.A Ncube-Hein; Bureau de Recherches Geologiques et Minieres (BRGM); Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies; Ecole Nationale d’Ingeneurs

Value

USD$3,399,547

Commencement Date

March 2010

Duration

3 years

Program Manager

Joe Cucuzza

Sponsors

AngloGold Ashanti Limited; AusAID; Azumah Resources Limited; Bureau des Mines et de la Géologie du Burkina; Castle Peak Mining; Centre de Recherches Géologiques et Minières - Niger; Department of Mines and Geology of Togo; Direction National de la Géologie République de Guineé; Direction Nationale de la Géologie et des Mines - Mali; Drake Resources Limited; First Quantum Minerals Ltd; Geological Survey Department - Ghana; Gold Fields International Services Ltd; Goldbelt Resources Limited (Avocet); Golden Star Resources Ltd; Gryphon Minerals Ltd; IAMGOLD Corp.; Lihir Gold Limited (Now Newcrest); Ministère des Mines et de L’Industrie Senegal; Ministry of Land, Mines and Energy - Liberia; OMRG l’Office Mauritanien de Recherches Geologiques; Red Back Mining (now Kinross Gold); Resolute Mining Limited; Rio Tinto; SEMAFO Inc; Vale; Volta Resources Inc; Votorantim Metais

P934A - West African Exploration Initiative – Stage 2


22 GEOSCIENCE

P1004A - DET CRC Implementation

Value

AUD$900,000

Commencement Date

July 2010

Duration

8 years

Program Manager

Joe Cucuzza

Affiliate Members

ABM Resources NL; Australian Drilling Industry Association Limited; Australian Training Alliance; BASF Australia Ltd; Blackthorn Resources (BTR); Bureau Veritas Australia; Carpentaria Exploration Limited; Corporaal Enterprises; CSA Global Pty Ltd; Diarotech; Downhole Surveys Pty Ltd; DPI VIC Earth Resources; Drillco Tools; Geological Survey of NSW; Geological Survey of Queensland; Geological Survey of Western Australia; Geomole Pty Ltd; Geoscience Australia; Globaltech; Hardcore Diamond Products; Heathgate Resources Pty Ltd; HiSeis; Investigator Resources; ioGlobal; JK Tech Pty Ltd; LKAB Wassara AB; Minotaur Exploration Ltd; Monax Mining Limited; Moog Australia Pty Ltd; Nautilus Minerals Inc; Northern Territory Geological Survey; Olympus Innov-X; Paladin Energy Ltd; Rex Minerals Limited; Sage Automation; Sandvik Mining and Construction Australia Pty Ltd; Teakle Composites

AMIRA is managing the Affiliate program is continuously working with the CRC to recruit additional Affiliate members. The DET CRC officially commenced operations in May 2010.

There are three Affiliate colleges: METS Suppliers, Junior Explorers and Government Geological Surveys. Members of each college see all the research outcomes but importantly can get actively involved in some of the research activity from technology development through to trialling and testing of the prototype technologies and finally potentially in commercialisation in the case of Suppliers.

Research Providers

Professor Richard R Hillis - Deep Exploration Technologies Cooperative Research Centre


23GEOSCIENCEThe aims of this project are to further advance the development of rapid approximate inversion of TEM data and to fully develop practical tools for integrated interpretation of multiple data sets in the VP software environment. The algorithms that have been developed currently provide 3D inversion results from TEM data two orders of magnitude faster than any other method currently available.

Research Providers

ARC Centre of Excellence in Ore Deposits, University of Tasmania - Dr Peter Fullager Fullagar Geophysics Pty Ltd

Induced Polarisation is a key, but expensive, geophysical methodology in the search for deeply buried minerals (and indeed in other shallow geophysical applications). While magnetics, gravity, radiometrics and electromagnetics have airborne alternatives to ground surveying, IP does not. Airborne IP (AIP) is an often-expressed desire of many explorationists. Building on the successes of Stage 1, Stage 2 has successfully achieved its aim of ground and airborne testing of relevant sensors.

Research Providers

RMIT University - Dr James Macnae

Value

AUD$557,874.54

Commencement Date

August 2010

Duration

3 years

Program Manager

Philip McInerney

Sponsors

AngloGold Ashanti Australia Limited; Gold Fields Australasia Pty Ltd; Mira Geoscience; Rio Tinto Exploration Pty Limited

Value

AUD$279,000

Commencement Date

February 2012

Duration

1 year

Program Manager

Philip McInerney

Sponsors

Abitibi Géophysique; Anglo American Spectrem Pty Ltd; BHP Billiton; Outer-Rim Exploration Services Pty Ltd; Teck Resources Limited

P1022 - Rapid Inversion of TEM Data

P1036A - Airborne Induced Polarisation – Stage 2


24 GEOSCIENCEData Metallogenica (www.datametallogenica.com ) involves progressively building the global web-based encyclopaedia of ore deposits. It is a not-for-profit community enterprise owned by AMIRA International on behalf of the minerals industry. The initial seed funding from 1999 to 2004 to do this via AMIRA International projects (P554 and P554A) was provided by over 100 large and small companies plus government groups.

The initial phase involved purchasing and moving the original physical collection of representative samples from Canada and expanding it by 40% to cover over 3000-4000 deposits through 70,000 samples around the world, digitally photographing at high

quality and placing on the web, together with spectral mineralogy

of alteration for about 10% of the collection. Self-supporting growth

since then has greatly increased the coverage of supporting data

such as reports, maps, sections, photographs of field, core and

petrography, as well as a full listing of all Australian geological

theses from the Australian Geoscience Thesis Database (P874).

About 70 full PhD and MSc theses from around the world have also

been added to date. Much of the high quality material in DM is

original, unique and irreplaceable.

The next phase of building the global encyclopaedia of ore deposits

will involve much faster growth of several main activities through

increased annual funding through a new AMIRA project (P1040):

• Data Additions – an extremely large backlog of high quality

supporting digital technical material has already been accumulated from many sources, mainly companies, surveys and research groups for individual deposits and global

overviews, the main limiting growth factor being labour to add

the material to the web. This growth is very likely to continue, and may be augmented by geochemical analyses of relevant parts of the collection, as well as regional geological overviews.

• Global Geoscience Thesis Database – a progressive building of

a digital listing of geological theses from other areas around the world (P1018) to supplement the upgraded Australian version.

• Website Upgrade – improved, simplified and expanded

navigational arrangement of material on the web, as well as increased and sophisticated searchability and translation options for all global languages.

• Expansion Of Physical Collection – continued growth of coverage

and photography from missing key deposits around the world.

• IncreasedInteractionWithOtherDatabases–assessmentand

implementation of linked web facilities with other supporting

quality international databases.

Research Providers

AMIRA International Limited - Dr Alan Goode; P1040 Advisory Panel

Value

AUD$1,407,000

Commencement Date

June 2012

Duration

3 years

Program Manager

Alan Goode

Sponsors

Alkane Resources Ltd; Altan Rio Minerals Ltd.; AMC Consultants Pty Ltd; Anglo American Services (UK) Ltd; AngloGold Ashanti Limited; Barrick (Australia Pacific) Limited; Boliden Minerals AB; British Columbia Geological Survey; Centerra Gold Inc; Coffey Mining; Compania de Minas Buenaventura; CSIRO; Department for Manufacturing Innovation Trade Resources and Energy (SA); DPI VIC Earth Resources; Drake Resources Limited; Encounter Resources Limited; Energia Minerals Limited; ENRC; Evolution Mining; Geological Survey of Canada; Geological Survey of Western Australia; Geoscience Australia; Gold Fields Ltd; Indophil Resources; Innova Resources Limited; Integra Mining Limited; Intrepid Mines; ioGlobal; Issara Mining Limited; Lundin Mining Corporation; Mawson Resources Ltd; Mincor Resources NL; New Gold Inc.; Newcrest Mining Limited; Newmont Mining Corporation; NSW Trade and Investment; Perilya Limited; Randgold Resources; Rio Tinto Exploration Pty Limited; Sandfire Resources NL; Saracen Mineral Holdings Pty Ltd; Saskatchewan Geological Survey; SolGold plc; SRK Consulting; St Barbara Ltd; Stratex International Plc; Tasman Metals Ltd; Terra Search Pty Ltd; Tigers Realm Minerals Pty Ltd; United States Geological Survey (USGS); Vale; Votorantim Metais; Xstrata Copper Limited

P1040 - Building the Global Encyclopaedia of Ore Deposits


25GEOSCIENCEThe project builds upon the results from the successful AMIRA project P923 and will undertake a series of short term site specific pilot studies nominated by the sponsor companies to focus on gold mineralogy and micro-geochemistry of pyrite utilising new technology advances. Four pilot study sites will be investigated and reported each year of the project. A group of three halo/vector study sites requiring more comprehensive research by the team will be selected on the basis of the pilot studies. This project is only now possible due to recent technology breakthroughs in the application of LA-ICPMS to rocks and ores.

These include:

• multi-elementlasertraceanalysistofingerprintdifferentpyritegenerations in a province and ore system,

• 2Dand3Dlasermappingofinvisiblegoldandothertraceelementsthroughout the paragenesis of ores and altered rocks,

• laserPbandSisotopeanalysisonvarioussulfidemineralsinoresand host rocks,

• anewtechniqueforrapidverylowlevelgoldandPGEanalysisonrocks, minerals, organic matter and matrix material, and

• comprehensiveanalysisofgoldmineralogytodeterminethenatureand siting of gold in ores and rocks; refractory gold, invisible gold, free gold, gold tellurides, gold-PGE minerals, gold-bearing organics etc.

These technologies have been developed in the CODES Centre of Excellence Laboratories, and are now available for application in a comprehensive and integrated manner.

The project framework will involve two integrated themes:

Theme 1:

Pilot studies – testing the application of the new laser technology to exploration case study sites provided by sponsors.

Theme 2:

Gold pyrite halos and vectors to ore - based on selected study sites from Theme 1.

Research Providers

ARC Centre of Excellence in Ore Deposits - Professor Ross Large

Value

AUD$591,000

Commencement Date

February 2010

Duration

3 years

Program Manager

Adele Seymon

Sponsors

AngloGold Ashanti Limited; G-Resources Group; Issara Mining Limited; Newcrest Mining Limited; Newmont USA Limited; Northern Star Resources Ltd; Sipa Resources Limited

P1041 - Application of New Technologies to Exploration and Evaluation of Gold Deposits


26 GEOSCIENCE

P1058 - Spectral Induced Polarisation for 3D Mineral Discrimination

Value

USD$648,000

Commencement Date

July 2011

Duration

1.5 years

Program Manager

Philip McInerney

Sponsors

Abitibi Géophysique; Anglo Operations Limited; AngloGold Ashanti Australia Limited; Barrick (Australia Pacific) Limited; BHP Billiton; BHP Billiton SSM Development Pty Ltd; First Quantum Minerals Ltd; Geophysical Resources and Services Pty Ltd; Khumsup Limited; Quantec Geoscience Ltd; Teck Resources Limited; Zonge Engineering and Research Organisation

One of the major challenges for mining geophysics is the ability to confidently distinguish between economic and uneconomic mineralisation. While mineral explorers routinely use different geophysical methods to locate if not delineate mineralisation, there has been no reliable technological methods for mineral discrimination that avoid drilling.

The goal of this Project was to develop techniques for mineral exploration and mineral discrimination based on spectral induced polarisation.

The objective was to develop such techniques based on spectral induced polarisation data using distributed acquisition systems and advanced methods of 3D modelling and inversion. In this project, TechnoImaging introduced new techniques for remotely determining the same IP parameters from both frequency- and time-domain field surveys.

Research Providers

TechnoImaging - Dr Masashi Endo; Dr Michael Zhdanov


27GEOSCIENCEP765A produced a series of mineral chemistry vectors within porphyry copper systems to allow the primary deposits to be “seen” from much further away than previously. The project focused on two problematic environments surrounding or overlying mineralised systems – “green rocks” and lithocaps. An unusual and popular feature of the project was to allow sponsors to actively test the vectors in real situations by submitting blind test sites to the research team. As an example, the giant high-grade Resolution deposit in Arizona was accurately detected from early exploratory drill holes under 1 km of barren cover. P1060 continues this work by looking at other simple minerals which are commonly found in such systems and which can be easily identified by field geologists. Other new aspects will also be researched to complement the earlier investigations, including a continuation of blind testing.

Research Providers

ARC Centre of Excellence in Ore Deposits - Professor Bruce Gemmell; Professor David R Cooke; Imperial College of Science, Technology & Medicine; Lakehead University

Value

AUD$3,570,000

Commencement Date

June 2011

Duration

3 years

Program Manager

Adele Seymon

Sponsors

Anglo American Exploration Australia Pty Ltd; AngloGold Ashanti Australia Limited; Barrick (Australia Pacific) Limited; BHP Billiton Marketing Asia Pte Ltd; Codelco; Compania de Minas Buenaventura; Eldorado Gold Corporation; First Quantum Minerals Ltd; Freeport-McMoRan Australasia Inc; Gold Fields Ltd; G-Resources Group; Inmet Mining Corporation; Intrepid Mines; Lundin Mining Corp; MMG Australia Limited; Newcrest Mining Limited; Newmont USA Limited; Rio Tinto Exploration Pty Limited; Teck Resources Limited; Vale Exploration Pty Ltd; Xstrata Copper Limited

P1060 - Enhanced Geochemical Targeting in Magmatic-Hydrothermal Systems


28 GEOSCIENCE

Value

USD$555,000

Commencement Date

January 2009

Duration

3 years

Program Manager

Joe Cucuzza

Sponsors

Barrick (Australia Pacific) Limited; BHP Billiton Metals; Codelco; Newmont USA Limited; Rio Tinto Exploration Pty Limited; Vale Exploration Pty Ltd

P972 - ATR Mineral Chemistry Applied to the Characterisation and Exploration of Andean type Cu ± Au Ore Deposits

COMPLETED

The overall objective of this proposal was to compile a comprehensive database in order to develop new robust and cost effective “mineralo-chemical” tools that will not only permit a better understanding of mineralising systems but more importantly offer explorers a new method of vectoring into mineral deposits. A key output from the project was a large database of the analytical results.

Research Providers

Universidad de Concepcion - Dr Osvaldo Rabbia Dalmasso, Dr Laura Hernandez; Aarhus University - Dr Thomas Ulrich; University of Oklahoma

Mt Mulga (Provided by Data Metallogenica Website, Peter Laznicka)


29MINE ENGINEERINGThe ROES™ mining method is unique. It is the only mining method proposed to industry in the last decade that removes personnel from the production area. The method is very sympathetic to any overall mine automation plan. The proposed study will define the scope for a demonstration project that should, on completion provide sponsors with the confidence to trial the ROES™ mining system in one of their own mines.

The study will address the following items:

• Theparticularneedsofeachsponsorfromtheminingmethod

• Therisksassociatedwiththeenablingtechnologiesandtheoptionsproposed to minimise such risks

• Thescopefortheresultingdemonstrationproject

• Theroutetomarketforthetechnology

Research Providers

CSIRO Earth Science and Resource Engineering - Mr Jock Cunningham

Value

AUD$87,000

Commencement Date

April 2013

Duration

6 months

Program Manager

Matthew Dalziel

Sponsors

Newcrest Mining Limited; VALE Canada Ltd; Xstrata Nickel Limited;

P987 - Scoping Study for ROES (Remote Ore Extraction System) Development

The stope design portion of P884 - PRIMO from which this project was developed, was focused more at strategic planning, and feasibility studies. Industry sponsors have identified the need for greater levels of detail and improved stope design solutions for medium and short term planning. The optimisation techniques being employed are amenable to more complex stope shapes, and additional design criteria that would follow as greater levels of detail are modelled and optimised. The choice of optimisation criteria, cutoff, penalties and shape geometry parameterisation can all be extended further. This project seeks to develop a complete solution for the optimisation of stope design and stope layout, covering strategic, tactical and operational planning.

Research Providers

Alford Mining Systems - Mr Chris Alford; AMC Consultants Pty Ltd

Value

AUD$1,035,000

Commencement Date

April 2011

Duration

3 years

Program Manager

Matthew Dalziel

Sponsors

Barrick Gold Corporation; BHP Billiton; Boliden Minerals AB; CAE Mining; Deswik Mining Consultants Pty Ltd; Maptek Pty Ltd; Minerals and Metals Group Ltd (MMG); MineRP (Australia) Pty Limited; Newmont Mining Corporation; VALE Canada Ltd; Xstrata Nickel Limited

P1037 - Stope Optimisation and Stope Layout


30

This new project brings together a team of applied researchers, industry consultants and software suppliers (who were participants in the PRIMO project) who can deliver an integrated set of tools for rapid, automated optimisation of underground mining projects, where the goal is to evaluate hundreds of scenarios and identify the best set of design criteria and parameters in a strategy optimisation project.

Research Providers

Alford Mining Systems - Mr Chris Alford; AMC Consultants Pty Ltd

Value

AUD$1,350,000

Commencement Date

April 2011

Duration

3 years

Program Manager

Matthew Dalziel

Sponsors

Barrick Gold Corporation; BHP Billiton; CAE Mining; Deswik Mining Consultants Pty Ltd; Minerals and Metals Group Ltd (MMG); MineRP (Australia) Pty Limited; Newmont Mining Corporation; VALE Canada Ltd; Xstrata Nickel Limited

P1043 - Framework for Rapid Automated Underground Mine Optimisation

MINE ENGINEERING

Orica delivering services in underground mining in New South Wales (Provided by Orica Limited)


31MINERAL PROCESSINGP9P will deliver a more comprehensive range of models, as compared to P9O, as well as the standards and techniques for particle characterisation (composition and spatial arrangement of minerals) required as model inputs. Ore characterisation at the front end of the process will increasingly replace the traditional time consuming and expensive measurement of ore properties such as hardness, density, size distribution and floatability, required for the current models of the unit operations. These developments will, for the first time, link all unit operations so that the effects of changes in one area can be simulated and compensated for in other parts of the circuit. This integration of unit operation models will allow true overall process improvements to be identified.

The P9P project will be executed with a case study approach in two parallel paths:

• Implementationofcasestudiesatspecificsponsorsitesusingthe integrated simulation platform based on fit-for-purpose multi-component models.

• Developandupgradeorecharacterisationmethodsandmodelsthrough continued data acquisition and validation.

P9P will carry out extensive scientific research into the fundamentals of processes and unit operation phenomenon to underpin the development of unit operation models. Validation will be achieved by in-plant surveys and analysis undertaken within P9P. Where possible and appropriate, P9P will also provide for the development of on-line instruments and measurement devices which will also facilitate the development and application of the models. These developments, fundamental understanding and site activities will of themselves greatly benefit sponsors by direct application, training and technology transfer.

Research Providers

Chalmers University of Technology; CRC ORE (Optimising Resource Extraction); Hacettepe University ; Julius Kruttschnitt Mineral Research Centre; Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro; University of Cape Town

Value

AUD$13,283,010

Commencement Date

April 2012

Duration

4 years

Program Manager

Terry Braden

Sponsors

Alcoa of Australia Limited; Anglo American Plc; AngloGold Ashanti Limited; Barrick Gold Corporation; Bateman Engineering; BHP Billiton Base Metals; COREM; FLSmidth Minerals; LKAB; Lonmin Platinum; Magotteaux Australia Pty Ltd; Metso Minerals Process Technology; Minerals and Metals Group Ltd (MMG); Newcrest Mining Limited; Newmont Mining Corporation; Outotec SEAP; Polysius AG; Rio Tinto Technological Resources Pty Ltd; Russell Mineral Equipment; Senmin South Africa (Pty) Ltd; Teck Resources Limited; Vale Australia; Xstrata Copper Limited

P009P - Optimisation of Mineral Processing by Modelling and Simulation


32

The P260F Project is a 4 year project with the following objectives:

• Increaserecoveryofvaluemineralincoarse,compositeparticles in sponsor flotation plants and ores.

• Increaserecoveryofvaluemineralsinfineparticlesinsponsorflotation plants and ores.

• Improveselectivityinsponsorflotationplantsandoresbyincreasing rejection of gangue minerals, including minerals containing penalty element such arsenic, antimony, fluorine, mercury bismuth in base metal concentrates

• Increaserecoveryofgoldinsponsorflotationplantsandores.

• Assesstheimpactofreducingwaterconsumptioninflotation,and develop strategies to mitigate against negative impacts.

• Improvetheconcentratequalityofkeynon-basemetalconcentrates such as iron ore and phosphate concentrates with our research collaborators.

• Developcharacterisationtools,methodsandprotocolsforuseby sponsors.

• Technologyandinformationtransfertosponsorsoperations.

This is accomplished through three separate but integrated modules:

• TechnologyTransferModule

• SulphideMineralTechnicalChallengesModuleincludingToolsand Methodologies.

• Non-SulphideMineralTechnicalChallengesModule.

Research Providers

University of South Australia - Dr Max Zanin, Research Professor Bill Skinner; Universidade de Sao Paulo - Professor Laurindo de Salles Leal Filho

Value

AUD$3,350,750

Commencement Date

May 2010

Duration

4 years

Program Manager

Chris Ward

Sponsors

COREM; Eriez Flotation; Freeport McMoRan Process Technology Center; Magotteaux Australia Pty Ltd; Newcrest Mining Limited; Outotec; OZ Minerals Limited; Teck Resources Limited; Vale Exploration Pty Ltd; Xstrata Technology

P260F - Influence of Process Mineralogy and Pulp Chemistry on the Flotation of Fine and Coarse Minerals

MINERAL PROCESSING


33MINERAL PROCESSINGP266 series of projects has transformed thickener design and operation through combining advanced computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modelling with detailed measurements for model development and validation that span from microscopic aggregate characterisation through to pilot and full-scale programs.

P266G focuses on the following four areas:

• MeasurementandModellingtowardsthefullthickenermodel(FTM)

• FTMApplicationtoControl

• DesignandOperation

• TechnologyTransfer

Research Providers

CSIRO - Dr Phillip Fawell; University of Melbourne - Professor Peter J Scales

Value

AUD$2,908,500

Commencement Date

September 2012

Duration

3 years

Program Manager

Gray Bailey

Sponsors

Alcoa World Alumina; Anglo Operations Limited; Aughinish Alumina Limited; BASF Construction Polymers Gmbh; Cytec Industries Inc; Tenova Delkor; FLSmidth Minerals; KEMIRA Chemicals Inc; MMG Century Zinc; MMG LXML Sepon; Newcrest Mining Limited; Outotec Pty Ltd; Senmin South Africa (Pty) Ltd; Shell Canada Energy; Teck Metals Ltd; Total E&P Canada; WesTech Engineering Inc

P266G - Improving Thickener Technology


34

Management of tailings is one of the most significant challenges facing the industry; as demand for commodities soar and grades decline the net result is that tailings volumes are rising rapidly with resulting cost increases and sustainability risks. There is an opportunity to improve the integrated and systemic understanding of recent developments in technology enablers for effectively managing tailings including flocculation, thickening, slurry pipelining and tailings stack design to assist industry to better design and operate tailings storage facilities (TSF).

CSIRO, ATC Williams, Monash University and the UWA have relevant, complementary capabilities and propose a multi-disciplinary research and development initiative to improve the economic and environmental performance of TSFs.

Research Providers

ATC Williams Pty Ltd - Mr Keith Seddon; CSIRO Process Science and Engineering - Mr Andreas Mönch / Dr Andrew Chryss; Monash University - Professor Murray Rudman; University of Western Australia - Winthrop Professor Andy (Andries) Fourie

Value

AUD$2,580,000

Commencement Date

October 2012

Duration

3 years

Program Manager

Gray Bailey

Sponsors

Anglo American Plc; BASF Construction Polymers Gmbh; Freeport-McMoRan Mining Company; Gold Fields Australasia Pty Ltd; Nalco Australia Pty Ltd; Newmont Mining Corporation; Outotec SEAP; Shell Canada Energy; Total E&P Canada

P1087 - Integrated Tailings Management

MINERAL PROCESSING

COMPLETED

The AMIRA P498 series of projects (P498, P498A and P498B) was successful in bringing together polymer manufacturers and mineral companies as sponsors of research, with mutual benefits.

The completed P498C project provided sponsors with the ability to select the right polymer for the right application based on a knowledge of how the polymer interacted with mineral surfaces. This approach represented a significant improvement over previous trial-and-error based testing of polymeric reagents.

Research Providers

University of South Australia - Assoc. Professor David Beattie; Levay & Co Environmental Services - Mr George Levay

Value

AUD$678,500

Commencement Date

October 2008

Duration

3 Years

Program Manager

Chris Ward

Sponsors

Anglo Platinum (Rustenburg Platinum Mines Ltd); CP Kelco Oy; National Starch; Newcrest Resources Inc

P498C - Enhanced Selectivity in Flotation Using Polymers


35MINERAL PROCESSINGCOMPLETED

The previous extension of this project developed a ruggedised piece of equipment to measure surface vibrations on mills, which was extensively tested at Northparkes Mine. The signals from the unit have been processed in a number of ways to show relationships to key mill operating parameters: toe and shoulder position, mill loading, particle size, ore hardness and liner wear.

This project worked to validate these relationships to develop predictive models including an on-line advisory alarm system to warn operators of substantial departures from normal operating conditions.

Research Providers

CSIRO Process Science and Engineering - Dr Ralph J Holmes; CSIRO Mathematical & Information Sciences; AMIRA International Limited

Value

AUD$996,000

Commencement Date

April 2008

Duration

3 years

Program Manager

Kriba Reddy

Sponsors

Anglo Platinum (Rustenburg Platinum Mines Ltd); Freeport-McMoRan Mining Company; Rio Tinto Limited; Xstrata Zinc

P667B - SAG Mill Monitoring Using Surface Vibrations

COMPLETED

Small operations in Chile have conducted flotation in sea water in the past, although much of the flotation know-how developed there has been lost. Gold and nickel operations in Western Australia are known to use highly saline waters and the Batu Hijau gold mine of Newmont in Indonesia uses seawater for flotation. Flotation of sulphide copper ores and their by-products (Mo, Au, Ag) in water with high concentration of electrolytes show problems in rougher and cleaner stages. For example, Cu, Mo and Au yield similar recovery levels in rougher circuits while concentrate grade decreases because pyrite depression is affected by the buffer effect of the electrolyte solution. In cleaner circuits pyrite depression using lime to adjust pH reduces recovery of Mo and Au.

Research Providers

Universidad de Concepcion - Professor Fernando Concha

Value

CL$360,000,000

Commencement Date

April 2009

Duration

3 years

Program Manager

Enrique Carretero Gonzaléz

Sponsors

Anglo American Chile Ltda; Antofagasta Minerals S.A,; BHP Billiton Base Metals; Teck Resources Limited

P968 - Flotation of Copper in Saline Water


36

Value

CL$472,100,000

Commencement Date

April 2009

Duration

3 years

Program Manager

Enrique Carretero Gonzaléz

Sponsors

Antofagasta Minerals S.A.; Codelco

P996 - Advanced Instrumentation and Control Strategies for Optimising Thickeners

COMPLETED

The project aim was to develop new instruments and control strategies to optimize the thickening operation in the mineral industry with direct impact on water consumption.

Research Providers

Universidad de Concepcion - Professor Fernando Concha

MINERAL PROCESSING

Orica delivering bulk explosives in Western Australia (Provided by Orica Limited)


37EXTRACTIVE METALLURGYThe AMIRA Gold Processing Technology project has delivered industry focussed research outcomes for 25 years. This extension project proposes new initiatives in the area of gold processing set within the context of the complex technical, human resource development and environmental challenges that face the gold industries in the second decade of the 21st century. It also consolidates and extends the work performed in the AMIRA P420D program, which is built on a solid foundation of 25 years of research and industry support.

There are three focus themes in the project:

• TechnologyTransfer&ProfessionalDevelopment

• Frommineralstooptimisedplants;and

• FutureOreProcessing.

Technology Transfer focuses on plant surveys and inputs into models for plant optimisation, coupled with workshops and courses for professional development of staff. Models for plant optimisation includes the expansion of the online models from the liberation-leach, gravity-flash-float, leach adsorption models to new models for roasting which links mineralogy to thermodynamics. In addition, research will continue into ore characterisation, and the development of a Code & Guidelines for baseline ore testing. Theme two will also involve the integration of gold metallurgy linking it to gold ore mineralogy, superimposed onto geological regions in the resources allows the development of gold specific geometallurgical models. Future Ore Processing looks at more fundamental research into interactions of complex gangue minerals with the extraction of gold. The theme delves into the evaluation of preconcentration through continuous early gangue rejection, using continuous gravity, dense media and screening with an emphasis on ore characterisation of the amenability of ores for continuous high mass gravity separation. Additional research involves the investigation of environmentally benign gold lixiviants with an emphasis on organic acid lixiviants for application in heap leaching, dump leaching and in-situ leaching.

Research Provider

Curtin University of Technology - Professor Jaques Eksteen

Value

AUD$3,245,250

Commencement Date

April 2013

Duration

3 years

Program Manager

Kriba Reddy

Sponsors

AngloGold Ashanti Limited; Australian Gold Reagents Pty Ltd; Barrick Gold Corporation; Bateman Engineering; Gekko Systems Pty Ltd; Harmony Gold Mining Company Limited; Kemix (Pty) Ltd; Magotteaux Pty Ltd; Newcrest Mining Limited; Orica Australia Pty Ltd; Randgold Resources; St Barbara Ltd

P420E - Gold Processing


38

Many trace elements are present in Bayer liquors. These come almost entirely from the bauxite ore, where they may occur either as pure minerals in small amounts or (more often) as contaminants of other mineral components. In most cases, the concentration of each trace element in the plant liquors tends to increase until a steady state is reached.

This project aims to increase the understanding of the chemistry of these elements in highly concentrated, alkaline solutions and allow improved control of their deportment through alumina refineries.

Research Providers

Murdoch University - Professor Glenn Hefter, Professor Peter M May

Value

AUD$600,000

Commencement Date

July 2011

Duration

3 years

Program Manager

Gray Bailey

Sponsors

Alcoa of Australia Limited; BHP Billiton/Worsley Alumina Pty Ltd; Hydro Aluminium Metal Products; Rio Tinto Alcan Limited

P507D - Chemistry and Transport of Trace Elements in Bayer Liquors


The project focuses on alumina quality through:

• quantifyingbreakagemechanismsofdifferentaluminas

• establishingthedifferenceinaluminastrengthmeasuredbydifferent test methods

• identifyingtherelationshipbetweenprecipitationconditions,precursor hydrate features and alumina strength, and

• quantifyingthesignificanceofadditionalgibbsitegrowthlayerson alumina strength.

Research Providers

CSIRO Process Science & Engineering - Dr Iztok Livk

Value

USD$460,500

Commencement Date

June 2011

Duration

3 Years

Program Manager

Gray Bailey

Sponsors

BHP Billiton / Worsley Alumina Pty Ltd; Hatch Associates Pty Ltd: Hydro Aluminium Metal Products; Rio Tinto Alcan Limited

P575C - A Qualitative Investigation of Strength and Breakage Behaviour of SGA Produced from Refinery Hydrates


39EXTRACTIVE METALLURGYThis extension project has built on the knowledge acquired in the earlier P705 series of projects led by the research team at Murdoch University and is the preeminent research program globally in the field of electrowinning technology.

The P705B project has been a highly cost effective vehicle for the participating companies to access significant technical knowledge on the electrowinning of base and other metals. It has provided significant opportunities for industry benchmarking, programs for staff development, training, further education and networking, resources for process optimisation (cost reduction/increased recovery/reduced energy consumption), tools and information to enhance tankhouse operating performances.

This project has also provided sponsors with valuable knowledge, tools and information relating to tankhouse OH&S issues through the provision of a greater understanding of acid mist generation and the fundamental processes relating to bubble formation.

Research Providers

Murdoch University - Professor Mike Nicol; Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG); University of Utah; Laurentian University

Value

USD$1,485,000

Commencement Date

April 2010

Duration

3 years

Program Manager

Chris Ward

Sponsors

Anglo Research; BHP Billiton Base Metals; Freeport-McMoRan Mining Company; Hatch Associates Pty Ltd; Industrie De Nora S.p.a.; Inppamet Ltda; Outotec; RSR Technologies Inc; Teck Resources Limited; VALE; Votorantim Metais

P705B - Improved Anode and Cathode Processes in the Electrowinning of Base Metals

Lolotoi Metamorphic Complex, Laclo River, East Timor (Provided by Oskar Lindenmayer)


40

The purpose of the Roadmap is to deliver a consensus of expert opinion on the strategic vision, the challenges and barriers to adoption, and the necessary steps required in addressing them. It identifies priority R & D that can be developed and pursued by both individual companies, or through collaborative partnerships. As well as taking a broader non-commodity specific view of the subject, the Roadmap will inform the development of the next extension to the P843A GEM project, subject to industry support, and scheduled to commence in 2014.

An important aspect of the development of the Roadmap has been the independent interviews undertaken with key stakeholders in Australia, South Africa, Chile and North America to help identify barriers to progress gaps and challenges and future needs. Dr Tim Napier-Munn (Australia / South Africa), Ms Romke Kuyvenhoven (Latin America) and Dr Karin Olson Hoal (North America) were engaged to undertake this initial survey work. The final document which provides an overall synthesis of the results of the above work has been prepared by an independent consultant, Mr Dean Collett.

Research Provider

AMIRA International Limited

Value

AUD$87,500

Commencement Date

July 2012

Duration

1 year

Program Manager

Olga Verezub

Sponsors

BHP Billiton Innovation Pty Ltd; Teck Metals Ltd; Antofagasta Minerals S.A.; Vale Exploration Pty Ltd; Votorantim Metais; Xstrata Copper Limited

P1110 - Geometallurgy Roadmap


RUSSELL 8 (8 axis) - 6 tonne Mill relining machine built in 2009 for Newcrest’s Cadia Mill and includes a traversing seat. (Provided by Russell Mineral Equipment)


41EXTRACTIVE METALLURGYThe Gold Industry faces challenges more urgent than ever before.

• Large,highgrade,free-millingdepositsarerarelydiscoveredandcompanies are turning to lower grade, complex and refractory ore bodies to maintain reserves.

• Humanresourcesarestillthekeytosuccessfuloperation,yetskilled gold metallurgists are in short supply.

• Investorspunishdeviationfromguidancefigures,yetthetoolstooptimise and to predict performance are not well suited to dealing with other than simple free milling ore bodies.

• OHS&Eissuesareintheforefrontofconcerns,yetreadilyappliedtools and know-how are not available to companies to facilitate adherence to duty of care standards.

This project offered companies the opportunity to tap into a world class R&D project at a high leverage of sponsorship investment. This proposal was structured around four research themes:

• CapturingandPreservingIndustryKnowledge

• PredictingandImprovingOreProcessing

• ProtectingtheLicencetoOperate

• ProcessingDifficultOres

Research Providers

Curtin University of Technology - William Staunton

Value

AUD$2,891,250

Commencement Date

August 2009

Duration

3 years

Program Manager

Kriba Reddy

Sponsors

AngloGold Ashanti Limited; Ausenco Services Pty Ltd; Australian Gold Reagents Pty Ltd; Barrick Gold Corporation; Gekko Systems Pty Ltd; Gold Fields Group Services (Pty) Ltd; Kemix (Pty) Ltd; Lihir Gold Limited (Now Newcrest); Magotteaux Australia Pty Ltd; Newcrest Mining Limited; Newmont Mining Corporation; Orica Mining Chemicals; Randgold Resources; Tenova Mining and Minerals

P420D - Gold Processing Technology


42

Value

AUD$600,000

Commencement Date

May 2011

Duration

2 years

Program Manager

Gray Bailey

Sponsors

Alcoa of Australia Limited; BHP Billiton/Worsley Alumina Pty Ltd; Rio Tinto Alcan Limited; Rusal Aughinish

P521D - Quantifying the Effect of Solid Phase Oxalate (SPO) on Gibbsite Agglomeration

EXTRACTIVE METALLURGYCOMPLETED

The primary objective was to quantify the effect of SPO on gibbsite agglomeration under the conditions relevant to the Bayer process and improve fundamental understanding of the mechanism of a possible interference by SPO with gibbsite agglomeration.

Research Providers

CSIRO Process Science and Engineering - Dr Iztok Livk

COMPLETED

Heap leaching of low grade copper and gold ores has been successfully employed over the past two to three decades. It has been realised that percolation is highly dependent on the size distribution of the crushed ore with fines playing a significant role. To minimise the percentage of fines and improve overall percolation, agglomeration of crushed ore has been implemented in gold and copper heap leach operations. While agglomeration has become common practice to improve heap leach recovery, the fundamental understanding of the agglomeration process for crushed ores is still lacking.

The project proposed to provide practical quality control tools for agglomeration of crushed ore. The project proposed to divide the work into a hub of practical research and commodity spokes (gold, copper and nickel) designed to be the source of test ore and allowing specific sponsor guidance.

Research Provider

University of Utah - Assoc. Professor Michael S Moats

Value

USD$1,612,000

Commencement Date

April 2009

Duration

3 years

Program Manager

Terry Braden

Sponsors

BHP Billiton Minerals; Freeport-McMoRan Mining Company; Gold Fields Group Services (Pty) Ltd; Vale Exploration Pty Ltd

P986 - Improving Agglomeration of Crushed Ore


43MULTI-DISCIPLINARYThe initial P843 project made major advances in developing practical methodologies and tools to deliver predictive measures of processing performance. These can be embedded in resource models and exploited in mine planning and optimisation. It delivered a wide range of hardware and software tools with demonstrated potential for routine application. These include lower-cost physical testing devices for comminution, automated core loggers and a range of imaging and microscopy platforms. These are linked to enabling software for specialist textural analysis, multivariate modelling and data integration. The P843A extension project seeks to continue this development with an increasing emphasis on large-scale site-based comparative benchmarking and validation. The research will also extend to new deposit types and processing attributes (early environmental characteristics, blasting and predictive leaching) not covered in the original project (flotation recovery and comminution).

A further aim of P843A is to provide technology transfer mechanisms to support sponsors in the implementation of these tools and methods. Case studies include Los Bronces, La Colosa, Cowal, Escondida, Codelco Norte, Andina, Cadia East, Telfer and Prominent Hill.

Research Providers

ARC Centre of Excellence in Ore Deposits; Centre for Mined Land Rehabilitation; CRC ORE (Optimising Resource Extraction); CSIRO Process Science and Engineering; Julius Kruttschnitt Mineral Research Centre; University of Tasmania; W H Bryan Mining Geology Research Centre

Value

AUD$7,758,331

Commencement Date

July 2009

Duration

4 years

Program Manager

Joe Cucuzza

Sponsors

Anglo American Chile Ltda; Anglo Research; AngloGold Ashanti Australia Limited; Australian Laboratory Services Pty Ltd; Barrick (Australia Pacific) Limited; Barrick Gold Corporation; BHP Billiton Innovation Pty Ltd; Boliden Minerals AB; CAE Datamine U.K.; Codelco; Gold Fields Ltd; ioGlobal; Metso Minerals (Australia) Limited; Minera Escondida Ltd; Minerals and Metals Group Ltd (MMG); Mount Isa Mines Ltd; Newcrest Mining Limited; Newcrest Technology Ltd; OZ Minerals Limited; Quantitative Geoscience Pty Ltd; Rio Tinto Technological Resources Pty Ltd; Sumitomo - Minera San Cristobal; Teck Resources Limited; Vale Australia

P843A - Geometallurgical Mapping and Mine Modelling


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Value

AUD$900,000

Commencement Date

May 2011

Duration

2.5 years

Program Manager

Gray Bailey

Sponsors

Alcoa World Alumina; BHP Billiton / Worsley Alumina Pty Ltd; Rio Tinto Alcan Limited; VALE Canada Ltd

P931A - Reduced Erosion in Multiphase Flow

This project aims to develop new tools and more efficient solutions to reduce the wear/erosion maintenance costs in multiphase flows. This is being achieved through a combination of better knowledge of the fluid properties and the material properties of the vessels being used to transport fluids and with a solution focussed on the flow geometry.

Case studies proposed by sponsors are yielding valuable outcomes to increase understanding and leading to recommendations to reduce wear.

Research Provider

CSIRO Process Science and Engineering - Dr Jie Wu

MULTI-DISCIPLINARY

There is a move by Maritime Authorities worldwide to have a Transportable Moisture Limit (TML) for each bulk cargo shipped by sea.

Current TML testing options are based on the use of methods originally developed for concentrates. For bulk cargoes containing coarse particles (e.g. iron ore, coal), these tests are problematic. The relationships between the three most widely used TML test methods are unclear, and the implications of removing the +6mm fraction before conducting the TML measurement are not understood.

This project will investigate the potential failure mechanisms of bulk iron ore cargoes while assessing the current TML test methods and relevance to any failure.

Research Providers

Creative Process Innovation Pty Ltd - Dr Tom Honeyands; CSIRO Process Science and Engineering; University of Auckland; TUNRA Bulk Solids - University of Newcastle

Value

AUD$1,958,500

Commencement Date

May 2012

Duration

2 years

Program Manager

Matthew Dalziel / Olga Verezub

Sponsors

BHP Billiton Innovation Pty Ltd; Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd; CME (The Chamber of Minerals & Energy Western Australia); Fortescue Metals Group; Minerals Council of Australia; Rio Tinto Technological Resources Pty Ltd; Roy Hill; Vale

P1097 - Systematic Evaluation of Transportable Moisture Limit Measurement Methods for Iron Ore Bulk Cargoes


45MULTI-DISCIPLINARYCOMPLETED

A detailed understanding of the flow regimes obtained in P599 and P599A provided an opportunity to exploit various aspects of high concentration flows to improve existing processes and possible pumping applications.

There were five areas in which extension work was undertaken:

• Technologytransfer

• Flowfundamentals

• Verticalconveying

• Separationtechniques

• PipeToolsdevelopment.

As in P599 and P599A, all outputs of the P599B research were captured in new releases of the PipeTools software.

Research Provider

CSIRO Materials Science and Engineering - Dr Jie Wu; CSIRO Process Science and Engineering

Value

AUD$501,000

Commencement Date

September 2008

Duration

3 Years

Program Manager

Matthew Dalziel

Sponsors

Rio Tinto Technological Resources Pty Ltd; Shell Canada Limited

P599B - High Concentration Suspension Pumping

Hope Downs - FLSmidth - Site exit aerial photo (Provided by FLSmidth Minerals)


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Value

AUD$1,134,000

Commencement Date

December 2009

Duration

3 years

Program Manager

Gray Bailey

Sponsors

BHP Billiton Iron Ore; Hidden Valley Services Limited; Rio Tinto Technological Resources Pty Ltd; Tasmanian Government; Teck Metals Ltd

P933A - Alternative Treatment Options for Long Term ARD Control

SUSTAINABILITYCOMPLETED

This project:

• Evaluatedthereactionmechanismsandproductsofselectedtreatment technologies and approaches including limestone, phosphate rock and silicates (separately or in combinations).

• Incorporatedandevaluateddatafromfieldtrialsoftreatmentsfrom sponsor sites and companion research programs.

• Outlinedtheimplicationsformanagementandapplicationofselected technologies.

• Tofurthertesttheratesofneutralisationprovidedbyganguesilicate and non-carbonate minerals, validated these results and applied them to real waste mineralogies.

• Continuedmethodologydevelopmentfordeterminationofacceptable design targets for matching Acid Generation Rate vs Non-carbonate Acid Neutralisation Capacity.

Research Provider

Boojum Research - Ms Margarete Kalin Levay & Co Environmental Services - Dr Russell R Schumann; University of South Australia - Dr Jun Li, Professor Roger Smart


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Cavity Quartz, Aileu District, East Timor (Provided by Oskar Lindenmayer)


48 DATA METALLOGENICA

Data Metallogenica is being built as a global encyclopaedia of ore deposits for the benefit of the international minerals industry and associated institutions.It is the world’s largest mineral deposit database, a unique technical information system made possible through the support of over one hundred international Foundation Sponsors from industry, government organisations and professional societies.

DM is a self-funding but not-for-profit enterprise, owned and operated by AMIRA International on behalf of the global minerals industry and associated institutions. Data Metallogenica will continue to develop as a major reference, training and educational resource for all, as well as being a key repository of much transient and valuable information on ore deposits.

It primarily aims to provide a technical introduction to individual deposits around the world, particularly for those unlikely to ever visit these deposits (even if they are still operating and available). DM therefore provides a virtual field trip to any deposit.

This year, the continuation of the P1040 project with the support of over 50 sponsors has seen the launch of the new DM website (http://www.dmgeode.com), allowing far greater utility of data, as well as a major expansion of the existing database.

Deposits can now be searched by location, commodoties and data type

Search results now appear on an interactive map, allowing users to see deposits in a regional context.


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NEW FEATURES INCLUDE…

Over 9 Gigabytes of new data: Includes hundreds of new sample plates, deposit summaries, photo galleries, technical reports, industry and academic presentations.

New translation features: The website and text from documents can now be automatically translated into 71 languages making DM very valuable as a reference and training tool.

Greater Global coverage: Technical information on over 500 new deposits, especially in regions such as Asia, Russia, Africa and South America.

Relaxed search criteria: Searches can be made on fragments of deposit names and aliases of deposits.

More specialised searching: Searches can be made on specific data types (eg. geophysics, regolith), commodity classes (eg. Base Metals, Diamonds) and world-parts, countries or states.

New map features: Searches now return interactive map plots, allowing users to see the regional context of deposits.

Deposit portal pages: Descriptive data for each deposit can be found on a single deposit portal page, along with an interactive map, sample plates and useful internal links.

CONTINUING FEATURES…

Physical collection and photographs: The original and unique physical collection is now stored at the DMITRE Core Library in Adelaide, South Australia, and consists of over 70,000 representative samples of ores, alteration, host rocks and regolith from thousands of individual deposits. High quality photographs of all sample plates are available on the website.

Thesis database: Full listing of all Australian geological theses, plus 1600 economic geology abstracts for Australian theses and 70 full PhD and MSc theses from around the world are available in a searchable database.

Commodity overviews: Overviews of deposit types for selected commodities by world experts.

New deposit portal pages display technical data, including Lithotheque plates and descriptive data, alongside summary descriptions of deposits and an interactive map.

New deposit portal pages display technical data, including Lithotheque plates and descriptive data, alongside summary descriptions of deposits and an interactive map.


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AMIRA INTERNATIONAL BROKERS COLLABORATIVE PROJECTS BETWEEN INDUSTRY AND WORLD-LEADING RESEARCH PROVIDERS BY LEVERAGING AVAILABLE INDUSTRY AND GOVERNMENT FUNDS

Road to Muktinath, Upper Mustang District, Nepal (Provided by Scarlett Blewett)


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AMIRA Offices

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Tel: +61 3 8636 9999 Fax: +61 3 8636 9900 Email: [email protected]

Australia

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ANNUAL REPORT - AMIRA International

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