Investment appeal assessment of Pt-rich and Cu-Ni deposits of Monchegorsky ore district in current conditions

Abstract

Development potential and investment attractiveness of PGM deposits (Monchegorsky ore district) are discussed. By the late 2020, the reserves of these deposits were approved based on results of a feasibility study review assessment in the State Reserve Commission and TsNIGRI approval. In current mineral market conditions (including high Pd price), the most attractive development projects are Vuruchuaivench deposit comprising 4 areas (Plast 300, Vuruchuaivench, Yuzhnosopchinsky and Arvarench), NittisKumuzhya-Travyanaya occurrence and Loipishnyun area. In terms of reserves, ore grades and proximity to processing plants, these potential mining projects are less expensive if developed concurrently. The paper presents recommendations for PGM deposit opening, development and mining using advanced mining equipment in open-pit and underground mining operations, ore conveying and processing plant tailings disposal to infill underground workings. Economic estimates were made supporting development viability of the above deposits within Monchegorsky ore district.