Optimal extraction methods selection for kakosa south copper ore deposit applying modified technique for order of preference by similarity to idea solution model

Abstract

Kakosa South copper deposit is located about 450km northwest of Lusaka between Chingola and Chililabombwe. A comprehensive study of Kakosa South deposit was carried out. In Kakosa area the footwall aquifer rocks comprising sandstone and conglomerates which are thin and as such are not expected to represent major aquifers. Copper mineralisation is found in the upper quartzite and ore-shale. The inclination of the deposit ranges from 250 up to 350. The hangingwall formations above the upper quartzite are represented by a sequence of dolomite and shale formations. Based on Kakosa geotechnical analysis and rock mass classification, fuzzy TOPSIS approach was employed for the selection of optimal extraction techniques. FTOPSIS approach has precise and specific quantities which are used in order to establish criteria and option weights. Triangular fuzzy numbers were determined to represent semantic variables. The fuzzy numbers for Kakosa South parameters were used as input data in the decision making model and matched against the criteria required for the mining method. Applying FDM model, extraction techniques were ranked. The results indicated that open pit extraction technique was ranked first with 78.90 scores followed by sublevel stoping with 66.88 scores. It is concluded that the Kakosa South copper ore deposit can optimally be extracted by open pit mining up to transition depth and transit from open pit mining to underground mining employing sublevel stoping.