Desarrollo de un scorecard multicriterio para categorización de recursos en un yacimiento de calizas

Abstract

Abstract: Mineral resource classification is an important stage in the evaluation of a mineral deposit, as it determines the level of confidence associated with resource estimates and provides relevant information for mine planning. In this context, the objective of this research was to develop a multicriteria scorecard for mineral resource classification in a limestone deposit, integrating geostatistical indicators and reliability metrics. To achieve this, a geological model and a block model were developed using drilling data, lithological records, and laboratory results. Subsequently, exploratory data analysis, variographic analysis, and Ordinary Kriging estimation were carried out. In addition, a multicriteria scorecard was implemented considering five evaluation criteria: number of samples, average distance to samples, Kriging efficiency, slope of regression, and risk index. The results showed that the use of a single estimation domain adequately represented the spatial distribution of variable of interest within the deposit. Likewise, the comparison between the traditional classification approach and the multicriteria scorecard revealed differences in the distribution of resource categories, resulting in a more balanced classification through the integration of multiple criteria related to estimation confidence. Finally, it was concluded that the multicriteria scorecard constituted a complementary tool for mineral resource classification by integrating geological, statistical, and geostatistical information into a single evaluation index and providing a classification consistent with the characteristics of the deposit.