Diseño del sistema de explotación de la concesión minera Cristo Rey, cantón Limón Indanza Morona Santiago.

Abstract

The objective of the current research work was to design an exploitation system for “Cristo Rey” mining concession located in Limón Indanza County-Morona Santiago Province, through the topographical survey of the area and the identification of the physical-mechanical and chemical properties of the mineral in order to assess mineral reserves. It carried out the research approach that was qualitative and quantitative based on the characteristics and numerical data. On the other hand, the area of interest was defined using a GPS, besides the use of a drone to identify the terrain relief, as well as the selection of the sampling mesh, heavy machinery to drill five exploratory wells, and made geological records that were prepared with the coordinates, dimensions, height and description of the wells; then silica samples were taken and sent to the laboratory to learn the properties about mineral. After that, the reserves were calculated using the RECMIN software to identify proven and probable reserves. The exploitation method was made through berms, which consists of the unidirectional advance of a block with a single berm uprooting the sterile material and placing it in a dump, while the useful material was taken to the treatment plant. The results of the analyzed samples were: SiO2 99.844%, Fe2O3 0.007%, Al2O3 0.006%, CaO 0.028%, and Na2O 0.012%. The field has proven reserves of silica with a total of 403,752.254 tons, within an area of interest of 3.6 ha, taking into account the probable reserves with 185713.4016 tons. It concludes that exploitation is feasible, because the surface of 3.6 ha has proven reserves of 403,752.254 tons, which is a material that can be worked for seven years. Finally, it recommends developing more exploratory wells to obtain information on the reserves about silica deposit.