Bluecap: A geospatial model to assess regional economic-viability for mineral resource development

摘要: Abstract Frontier mineral exploration is often exclusively focused on assessing geological potential without consideration for the economic viability of resource development. This strategy may overlook potentially prosperous zones more geologically-favoured but financially-disadvantageous regions, or conversely, introduce implicit biases against developments due regard to underlying economies scale proximity infrastructure. Accordingly, in this paper, we a numerical model aimed at identifying fairways, i.e. areas permissive development from an perspective. The model, Bluecap, combines large-scale infrastructure and datasets conduct geospatial analysis economic-viability mining operations across Australia. We provide detailed description inputs assumptions that underlie cost models employed outlining methods used evaluate mining, processing, administrative expenses. also describe databases by available infrastructure, transportation distances depth cover. Finally, present examples demonstrate use Bluecap regions around Mount Isa Murray Basin verify its ability commercially feasible prospects. While immediate utility stands benefit explorers, map fairways provides objective, evidence base underpin government decision making with respect position new competing land claims.