NI 43-101 Technical
Report on
the Maranta Cu-Mo
Project,Peru
December 18,2021
Preparade for: Capstone Uni Mining
Authors:
Alvaro Rodolfo De la Cruz Acuña
Jeffrey Nicser Arias Paitan
Saul Aroni Barrios
Maycol Ayala Melo
Franco Jamanca Caceres
Jesus Rubina Valderrama
GENERAL INDEX
1. SUMMARY .................................................................................................................... 6
2. INTRODUCTION........................................................................................................... 6
3. DESCRIPTION AND LOCATION OF THE PROPERTY ............................................... 7
3.1 Project Location ........................................................................................................ 7
4. ACCESSIBILITY, LOCAL RESOURCES, INFRASTRUCTURE AND
PHYSIOGRAPHY. ......................................................................................................... 8
4.1 Accessibility............................................................................................................... 8
4.2 Local Resources and Infrastructure ............................................................................ 9
4.3 Physiography ........................................................................................................... 10
4.3.1 Flora..................................................................................................................... 10
4.3.2 Fauna ................................................................................................................... 11
5. CLIMATE ................................................................................................................ 11
5.1 Air Temperature..................................................................................................... 12
6. HISTORY ................................................................................................................. 13
7. GEOLOGICAL FRAMEWORK AND MINERALIZATION...................................... 13
7.1 Geological Environment ........................................................................................... 13
7.2 Regional Geology ..................................................................................................... 13
8. TYPE OF DEPOSIT.................................................................................................. 14
9. EXPLORATION ....................................................................................................... 14
10. DRILLING.............................................................................................................. 15
11. SAFETY, PREPARATION AND ANALYSIS OF SAMPLES ................................... 16
12. MINERAL PROCESSING AND METALLURGICAL TEST ....................................... 17
13. TRANSPORT AND MARKETING OF CONCENTRATE ........................................... 17
14.ESTIMATION OF MINERAL RESOURCES ............................................................... 18
14.1 Database ................................................................................................................ 18
14.2 Geological interpretation and modeling................................................................... 19
14.3 Exploratory Data Analysis (EDA). .......................................................................... 20
14.3.1. Descriptive statistics ........................................................................................ 21
14.3.1.1 Descriptive statistics of the data for lithology 1. .............................................. 21
14.3.1.2 Descriptive statistics of the data for lithology 2. .............................................. 22
14.3.2. Correlation between metals ............................................................................. 22
14.4 Compositing ....................................................................................................... 23
14.5 Variography ....................................................................................................... 24
14.7Block Model ........................................................................................................ 26
15. CALCULATION OF MINING RESERVES ................................................................ 27
15.2 Pit by Pit ................................................................................................................... 28
15.3Cut off ....................................................................................................................... 30
16.1 Mineral Reserves ....................................................................................................... 33
16.2.1Production rate and sizing .................................................................................... 34
16.3.1
Drilling Calculation ......................................................................................... 35
17. RECOVERY METHODS ............................................................................................ 37
17.1 Plant Design........................................................................................................... 38
17.1.1 Oxide ore plant ................................................................................................ 38
17.1.2 Four-stage crushing circuit............................................................................... 38
17.1.3 Tub leaching .................................................................................................... 38
17.1.4 Clarification .................................................................................................... 39
17.1.5 Solution ponds ................................................................................................. 39
17.1.6 Gravel ............................................................................................................. 39
17.1.7 Solvent Extraction (SX) .................................................................................... 40
17.1.8 Electrodeposition (EW) .................................................................................... 40
17.1.9 Reagents .......................................................................................................... 40
17.1.10 Services ......................................................................................................... 41
17.1.11 Sulphide ore plant .......................................................................................... 41
17.1.12 Primary crushing ........................................................................................... 42
17.1.13 Storage and recovery system for crushed ore................................................... 43
17.1.14 Grinding ........................................................................................................ 43
17.1.15 BULK flotation of CU-MO ............................................................................. 43
17.1.16 Molybdenum separation ................................................................................. 43
17.1.17 Spacing and filtration of copper concentrate ................................................... 44
17.1.18 Storage and loading of copper concentrate ...................................................... 44
18. INFRAESTRUTURE ............................................................................................... 14
20. New Technologies .................................................................................................... 50
INDEX FIGURES
Figure 3.1 Maranta Project Location .............................................................................. 8
Figure 10.1. Drills ........................................................................................................... 15
Figure 11.1. Drilling samples ........................................................................................ 16
Figure 14.2.1. Longitudinal view of wireframe ............................................................. 19
Figure 14.5.1. Spherical variogram and experimental variogram for Cu in lithology 1.
........................................................................................................................................ 25
Figure 14.6.2. Spherical variogram and experimental variogram for Cu in lithology 2
........................................................................................................................................ 26
Figure 14.7.1. Plan view of the block model representing lithology. .......................... 26
Figure 15.2.1 Pit by Pit Analysis ................................................................................... 30
Figure 16.1 Mining sequencing ..................................................................................... 32
Figure 16.2.1Preliminary Plan Prodution ..................................................................... 35
Figure 16.3.1 Drilling Machine ...................................................................................... 35
Figure 17.1. Oxide ore Process Flowchart ................................................................... 41
Figure 17.1.11. Flowchart of the sulfur minerals process. .......................................... 42
Figure 18.1.1 Typical Track Section ............................................................................ 46
TABLE INDEX
Table 4.3.1. Flower species found in the project area ................................................. 10
Table 4.3.2 Species of animals found in the project area .......................................... 11
Table 14.1.1. Project limits and block dimensions ...................................................... 18
Table 14.1.2. Maranta project database. ....................................................................... 19
Table 14.3.1. Descriptive statistics applied to data ..................................................... 20
Table 14.4.1. 2- Meter composite. ................................................................................ 24
Table 14.5.1. Angular parameters. ................................................................................ 24
Table 14.5.2. Distance parameters. ............................................................................... 25
Table 15.3.1. Point Values ............................................................................................. 31
Table 16.3 Geometric Parameters................................................................................. 33
Table 16.4. Ramp width calculation. ............................................................................. 33
Table 16.1.1. Proven and probable mineral reserves .................................................. 34
Table 16.2.1.Preliminary Plan Production .................................................................... 34
Table 16.3.1 Parameter for Drilling Selection............................................................... 36
Table 16.3.2 Number of Drilling Selected ..................................................................... 37
Table 18.1 Distances between infrastructures ........................................................... 45
1. SUMMARY
The present work aims to show a conceptual study of the Maranta mining project, in order to
analyze its feasibility. Based on data provided by the teachers in charge of the course, data
from exploration drills and their subsequent analysis using the Mineplansoftware, with which
we were able toperform different types of calculations, from the estimation and clocation of
the reserve to its economic evaluation
. The resources and reserves of the Cu and Mo project were estimated, resulting in a total of
676 Mt of resources. For the calculation of our reserves we define our cut-off law (NSR cut
off = 37.04 $ / t) resulting in proven and probable reserves 639 Mt with average laws of
0.58% Cu and 0.06% Mo. From the model of resources and reserves, the mining phases were
defined according to the pit by well analysis, obtaining an optimal final well marked by a
minimum profitability, Sale of well 50 in 4 stages. Subsequently, the production plan was
obtained with a plant capacity of 184 416 tons / day for 13 years. Finally, an economic
analysis of the project was conducted, resulting in a NPV of 22.41 M US$ at a discount rate
of 10%.
2. INTRODUCTION
This report contemplates the technical-economic evaluation of the Maranta mining project
on a conceptual level, an area explored for many years and currently owned by the company
UNI S.A.C. This project is classified within the large mining sector due to a prospective
production rate of 184 416 tpd,it is located in the region of Ica, approximately 405 km
southeast of Lima, 40 km southwest of Nasca and 24 km northeast of the population center
San Juan de Maranta, which consists of the exploitation of base metals such as Cu and Mo
for 13 years obtaining Cu concentrate and Mo concentrate as a product. The overall objective
of this evaluation process is to determine whether the project presents reasonable
expectations of economic profitability, as well as to analyze the risk involved in the
assumptions of our base case. The specific objectives are to establish an adequate strategy to
carry out the evaluation of the project, to achieve an estimate of the resources that is as
accurate as possible to reality even when we do not have all the information about the deposit,
to justify the costs incurred in the process and the necessary investments, as well as to define
the production schedule that can generate greater valuation and maintain an attractive NPV
of the project. 15 The main works and studies carried out to reduce the risk included: an
update of the metallurgical geomodel referred to in the BCM report, studies of stability and
characteristics of tailings disposal, legal review of the Peruvian tax regime, update of the
terms of commercialization and transport of concentrates, development of alternative
execution approaches and associated capital costs, adjustment of operational plans and
associated operating costs, an update of the project calendar.
3. DESCRIPTION AND LOCATION OF THE PROPERTY
3.1 Project Location
The Maranta project is located about 405 km southeast of Lima within the province of
Nazca, Department of Ica of the coastal strip of southern Peru. The project is located
approximately 24 km north of the coastal city of San Juan de Maranta, and the city of
Nazca, on the Pan-American Highway South. The geographical coordinates are
approximately 15°08'S and 75°04'W its elevations range from 785 masl to 810 masl. The
exact location is observed in Chart X
Figure 3.1 Maranta Project Location
4. ACCESSIBILITY, LOCAL RESOURCES, INFRASTRUCTURE AND
PHYSIOGRAPHY.
4.1 Accessibility
Access to the Project is by land and air, as explained below:
● By land, it is carried out through the South Pan-American Highway (PE-1S) to the
detour to Maranta (PE-30) at km 488; continue along this detour to another detour
signposted for the Project, by which you continue to the right on a flat road of
approximately 3 km.
● By air from the airport of San Juan de Maranta (managed by the Peruvian Navy),
from where you take the PE-30 route to the Panamericana Sur, to the detour
signposted by the Project and continue to the left along the unpaved road of
approximately 3 km.
● By air from the Maria Reiche airfield, located in Nazca, from where you take the
Panamericana Sur at km 488 and continue along this detour to another detour
signposted for the Project and continue to the right along the unpaved road of
approximately 3 km.
4.2 Local Resources and Infrastructure
In the small town of San Juan de Maranta there are some infrastructures, which were
developed to support the large-scale exploitation of the Maranta mine deposit.
The village of San Juan de Maranta has a population of approximately 15 933 inhabitants
and is located about 24 km from the Maranta Project.
The region can provide the basic goods, services, medical care and some accommodation to
assist the project, as well as meet some manpower needs for the various phases of exploration
and development projects. San Juan de Maranta and the Maranta mining operations are
connected to the national electricity grid.
There is no surface water in the project area; groundwater has been detected at a depth of 450
m at the Mina Maranta site. The water for the community of San Juan de Maranta is obtained
from the Jahuay aquifer located 19.6 km from the Maranta Mine Project and along the South
Pan-American Highway.
Cell phone coverage is available on a limited basis in the Project area, but the network is
expanding. Communications will be made via satellite telephone.
4.3 Physiography
4.3.1 Flora
We identified 22 species of flowers distributed in 18 genera, 11 families and two upper taxa
(Magnoliopsida and Liliopsida)(Table X). Magnolipsids (Dicotyledons) constitute the
dominant group of flora, with 16 species (73% of the total) in 13 genera and 10 families. The
families with the greatest richness were Bromeliaceae and Cactaceae Asteraceae with three
species each; followed by the families Asteraceae and Nolanaceae with two species each.
Superior Taxa
Family
Number of Genders
Magnoliopside
Amaranthaceae
1
Magnoliopside
Asteraceae
2
Magnoliopside
Bromeliaceae
3
Magnoliopside
Cactaceae
3
Magnoliopside
Caryophyllaceae
1
Magnoliopside
Krameriaceae
1
Magnoliopside
Malvaceae
1
Liliopsida
Poaceae
6
Table 4.3.1. Flower species found in the project area.
4.3.2 Fauna
Four species of mammals were recorded in the project area, of which; three species are
medium and large mammals(Lycalopex
griseus,
Lycalopex
culpaeus and Lama
guanicoe)belonging to twotaxonomic orders, and the Lima Eared Mouse Phyllotis limatus
(Table X). The rodent species, Phyllotis limatus is a species that is distributed throughout
the Coastal Desert of Peru and Chile, no species of small flying mammals were found in the
habitats evaluated.
Order
Family
Species
Common name
Carnivora
Canidae
Lycalopex culpaeus
Colorado Fox
Carnivora
Canidae
Lycalopex griseus
Gray Fox
Cetartiodactyla
Camelidae
Lama guanicoe
Guanaco
Rodentia
Cricetidae
Phyllotis limatus
Mouse Orejón de
Lima
Table 4.3.2 Species of animals found in the project area
5. CLIMATE
The Maranta project area is located in a desert area within the Peruvian coastal belt. The area
has an arid climate with strong prevailing winds from the south during the day, which change
to north winds at night, this type of climate covers most of the Peruvian coast and covers the
provinces of Chincha, Pisco, Ica and Nasca.
Annual rainfall ranges from 0 mm to 80 mm, with an average of about 27 mm. The average
annual temperature is about 19°C. Monthly maximum temperatures range from 22°C to 28°C
and average monthly minimum temperatures range from 15°C to 26°C. Relative humidity
usually ranges from 65% to 85%. During the winter months, from June to August, thick fogs
or "mists" are common.
5.1 Air Temperature
The multi-year average temperature reached values of 16.6°C. The highest average values
occur in the months of February and March, reaching temperatures of 21.1ºC and 20.6ºC,
respectively. The maximum monthly average temperature is recorded in the month of March
reaching the value of 28.5ºC; the average annual maximum temperature is 26.7ºC. The
average monthly minimum temperatures are presented in the month of August with a value
of 8.1 ° C, the average annual minimum temperature is 11.2 ° C. Historical monthly and
annual consolidated records are presented in Graph X
Graph X shows the monthly variation of the Maximum, Average and Minimum air
temperature.
6. HISTORY
The company that owns the Maranta project is UNI SAC. Which has all the surface rights,
the same that have been acquired by the Public Deed of Constitution Contract dated May 26,
2011 and in force to date.
The company UNI SAC contracts the Shangchi Mining Company for the execution of the
exploration activity.
The company Shangchi Mining has as its main objective of the program, the drilling,
exploration and definition of resources in the Maranta Mine Project including a regional
exploration program of geological mapping, surface sampling and geophysical studies.
7. GEOLOGICAL FRAMEWORK AND MINERALIZATION
7.1 Geological Environment
The Maranta Project is located in the Department of Ica in the Coastal Belt of Peru. This
northwesterly trending linear belt represents the westernmost part of the Central Andes
Mountain Range, where the Nazca Plate subducts beneath the South American Plate, forming
an active continental margin along the Peru-Chile Trench.
7.2 Regional Geology
The geology of the Marcona District consists of a high-grade Precambrian metamorphic
basement (Arequipa Massif), discordantly superimposed by neoproterozoic
and
Phanerozoicsedimentary rocks. Paleozoic sediments (the Marcona Ordovician Formation)
are home to most of the economic deposits of copper and molybdenum at the Matarantamine.
Rocks of monzogranite,granodiorite and gabrodiorite from the postkinematic batholith of
St. Nicholas (dated to approximately 425 Ma) intrude the pre-Mesozoic rocks. Premesozoic
rocks are discordantly superimposed by a series of volcanic-sedimentary and volcanoplutonic arc sequences that vary in age from the late Triassic to the Holocene. Sedimentary
volcanic rock sequences are engulfed by porphyry andesite dikes, thresholds and plugs of
the Tunga Andesite (also called "Ocoite"); and, in the eastern parts of the district, by granitoid
plutons of the coastal batholith of approximately 109 Ma. The shallow water marine
sediments of the Tertiary era and the quaternary marine terraces overlap in a non-conforming
way to the succession of the volcanic-plutonic arc.
8. TYPE OF DEPOSIT
The copper and molybdenum deposits at the Maranta mine were part of a large iron-rich
hydrothermal system formed in an extensional environment along a continental margin
related to subduction. Recent work (Chen, 2008) suggests that the Maranta prospect is
significantly younger (approximately 104-95 Ma) and geochemically distinct from the
Marcona iron deposit (approximately 162-156 Ma). The Maranta prospect is now interpreted
as a hydrothermal deposit that was formed by the incursion of exotic brines and probably of
evaporitic origin that were ejected from an adjacent sedimentary basin.
9. EXPLORATION
Shangchi mining began exploration activities at the Maranta property in 2013, initially under
the terms of an option agreement with Rio Tinto and since 2019, as sole proprietors. The first
exploration activities include geological surface mapping over the entire concession area (an
area of approximately 4.5 x 7 km), detailed lithological, alteration and structural mapping
over the 1:2500 scale deposit area, trench excavation, terrestrial geophysical studies (induced
polarization and magnetism) and core drilling. Since 2013, Shangchi mining has drilled 138
exploration wells at the Maranta Project, totaling approximately 34513 meters. In 2017, six
additional wells (a total of 906.0 m) were drilled in Maranta to obtain specific material for
metallurgical testing work. This additional core was also analyzed for the presence of
molybdenum and copper, and the results were added to the project database to update the
resource estimate.
10. DRILLING
Since 2013, 138 wells drilled in the Maranta project with a total length of 35419 meters, with
a minimum spacing of 1200 meters with diamond drilling methods using MD 6250, the holes
are perpendicular to the mineralization, several holes were also made from the same point to
reduce the impact of the surface and obtain the necessary drilling coverage, in the case of
lower slope areas, the spacing was 25 meters.
Figure 10.1. Drills
11. SAFETY, PREPARATION AND ANALYSIS OF SAMPLES
Samples of diamond cores are collected and placed in weatherproof plastic and cardboard
boxes. on the drilling rig by the drilling rig and transported by vehicle to the Project camp,
where the core preparation facilities are located. BCM geologists photograph the core as it is
received from the platform and collect geotechnical information (rock quality designation
[RQD]) and core recovery before selecting sample intervals for division. Test samples,
usually 2 m in length, are selected by the geologist BCM at the site and divided using a
manual core separator. Half of the sampled core is 22 returned to the box for geological
record, and the other half is packaged and labeled with a blind sample number assigned by
BCM. BCM geologists collect samples from trench channels dug by hand with a hammer
and chisel. Trenches are dug by hand to remove overload and expose a clean surface of the
bedrock on the trench floor.
Figure 11.1. Drilling samples
The samples are prepared in Arequipa and then sent to theALS-Chemex laboratory in Lima
for analysis. The chain of custody is documented throughout the transport process. Samples
are prepared according to the preparation code ALS-Chemex PREP-31, which implies the
following:
● The sample is dried at 110° to 120°C and crushed with a 70% jaw and roller crusher.
● 2 mm (approximately mesh #10)
● A subsample of 250 g is obtained using a riffledivider.
● The division is sprayed with an 85% ring and disc sprayer passing 75 microns(μm)
● Thick rejects are returned to BCM.
12. MINERAL PROCESSING AND METALLURGICAL TEST
The exploitation of the deposit will be carried out by the open pit method and the processing
of the minerals will be by conventional flotation, obtaining copper-molybdenum in
concentrates. In 2019 and 2020 additional metallurgical tests were performed on 12 samples
from 9 wells (6 of which were new, as described above) drilled in the East wells, to also
optimize the well-known leaching test conditions and plant testing. The selected samples
reasonably cover the entire ore deposit and include ore with some degree of oxidation and
mineral with low sulfur content. The information obtained validated and improved the
recovery formulas, providing confidence in the production schedule of Life of Mine. This
test work confirmed that marketable grade molybdenum and copper concentrates can be
produced using the processing parameters selected for process plant design.
13. TRANSPORT AND MARKETING OF CONCENTRATE
Copper concentrate containing approximately 8% moisture will be transported in standard
size, sealed and coated containers from the plant to the port of Maranta, approximately 632
km from the site. It is estimated that 14 trucks per day of copper concentrate will be shipped
during years 1 to 3. of the life of the mine, after which shipments will be reduced to 10 trucks
per day. Molybdenum concentrate containing about 8% moisture will be shipped in bulk
from the site to the bulk container port in Ica. Approximately 9 copper trucks will be shipped
per day, during the first three years of mine life and around 5 trucks per day for the rest of
life.
14.ESTIMATION OF MINERAL RESOURCES
Resource estimation is considered an iterative process that begins with the exploration and
compilation of geological data; Next, the geological domains are defined to make the
reservoir modeling and the interpolation or grade estimation. Subsequently, for the
calculation of reserves, the mining factors of the JORC code are considered.
The main objective of the process is the adequate estimation of the grade and tonnage of the
block model, which will depend on the quality, quantity and distribution of the holes
produced and the degree of continuity of the mineralization that has been respected and
maintained with the reality of the Deposit.
14.1 Database
Drilling on the Maranta project has been under the control of BCM. All drilling was done by
diamond core methods that produced a2.5 inch HQ core.
The project coordinates are represented in Table 14.1.1
Coordinate
Minimum Maximum Block Size
Easting
2000
3500
10
Northing
4500
6000
10
Elevation
2000
2800
10
Table 14.1.1. Project limits and block dimensions
The database is made up of 138 diamond drill holes demarcated by the area where there is an
acceptable concentration of drill holes, with 24973 test intervals totaling 35 419 meters
drilled, which contain the important metals of the project (Cu and Mo). Table 14.2. 2.
#DDH Input
138
Minimum perforated length
23 meters
Maximum perforated length
600 meters
Total meters drilled
35419 meters
Table 14.1.2. Maranta project database.
14.2 Geological interpretation and modeling.
The deposit is described as a copper porphyry with high mineralization of copper and
molybdenum of disseminated mineralization and in stockwork-type veinlets.
The geological solids for this project were made based on the lithology encoded in the
diamond drill holes. With this we can deduce that the estimation domain will be by lithology
associated with mineralization limits.
Figure 14.2.1. Longitudinal view of wireframe
14.3 Exploratory Data Analysis (EDA).
The statistics of the assays, histograms of metal grades, correlation graphs, distribution of
populations, measures of central tendency (mean, mode) or dispersion (standard deviation)
are made. A summary is shown in Tables 14.3.1
CU-ROCK1
CU-ROCK2
CU-ROCK3
CU-ROCK4
Valid Data
3902
4742
3175
386
Total Data
3902
4742
3175
386
Minimum
0.05
0.02
0.01
0.01
Maximum
3.33
0.89
1.22
0.29
Mean
0.986
0.391
0.102
0.081
Variance
0.135
0.015
0.006
0.003
Standard
Deviation
0.367
0.122
0.075
0.057
Coefficient of
Variation
0.373
0.311
0.737
0.709
Table 14.3.1. Descriptive statistics applied to data.
14.3.1. Descriptive statistics
Histograms to obtain descriptive statistics and analyze the variability of
the laws, the presence of populations and possible outliers.
14.3.1.1 Descriptive statistics of the data for lithology 1.
To. Statistical analysis for Cu
Static
Pb
Minimum
0.05
Maximum
3.33
Mean
0.135
STD
0.367
CV
0.373
B. Statistical analysis for Mo
Static
Mo
Minimum
0.001
Maximum
0.998
Mean
0.106
STD
0.006
CV
0.077
14.3.1.2 Descriptive statistics of the data for lithology 2.
A.
Statistical analysis for Cu
Static
Pb
Minimum
0.02
Maximum
0.89
Mean
0.391
STD
0.015
CV
0.311
B.Statistical analysis for Mo
Static
Mo
Minimum
0.001
Maximum
0.663
Mean
0.052
STD
0.049
CV
0.939
14.3.2. Correlation between metals
A bivariate analysis is performed between the metals of importance, to understand the
behavior of the grade of one metal with respect to the grade of another metal.
COEF. CORRELATION
Litho1
0.302
Litho2
0.167
14.4 Compositing
When compositing, it must be considered that the size of the composite must be larger than
the average of the length of the assay intervals; the compositing should not change the
average grade of the assays, maximum by 5%; and the compositing should not change the
sum of the metal content (length x grade), maximum by 5%.
CU-ROCK1
CU-ROCK2
CU-ROCK3
CU-ROCK4
Valid Data
3902
4742
3175
386
Total Data
3902
4742
3175
386
Minimum
0.05
0.02
0.01
0.01
Maximum
3.33
0.89
1.22
0.29
Mean
0.986
0.391
0.102
0.081
Variance
0.135
0.015
0.006
0.003
Standard
Deviation
0.367
0.122
0.075
0.057
Coefficient of
Variation
0.373
0.311
0.737
0.709
Table 14.4.1. 2- Meter composite.
Figure 14.4.2. Q-Q Plot of 2-meter composite Cu.
Considering the amount of data, the variation of averages and the graphs with respect to
the tests, the compost length to be chosen is 2 meters.
14.5 Variography
Parameters
HORIZONTAL
VERTICAL
ANGLE BEGINNING
0°
0°
ANGLE INCREMENT
30°
30°
WINDOWING ANGLE
18°
15°
NUMBER OF ANGLES
6
4
Table 14.5.1. Angular parameters.
PARAMETERS
LAG DISTANCE
80
NUMBER OF LAGS
10
LAG DISTANCE
TOLERANCE
0
Table 14.5.2. Distance parameters.
Experimental variograms are obtained from the 2-meter composited data, including the
parameters in Tables 14.5.1 and 14.5.2.
Variograms for Cu
Figure 14.5.1. Spherical variogram and experimental variogram for Cu in lithology 1.
Figure 14.6.2. Spherical variogram and experimental variogram for Cu in lithology 2
14.7Block Model
The block model is the discretization of the geological solid obtained in the modeling. The
dimensions of the block used in the model is 10x10x10 meters.
Figure 14.7.1. Plan view of the block model representing lithology.
15. CALCULATION OF MINING RESERVES
15.1
Pit optimization
The analysis by the Lerchs Grossman algorithm was performed using the Minesight software.
The Net Smelter Return (NSR) and the values of each block calculated in the software were
used.The NSR includes income payable less costs to sell, including treatment and refining
expenses. The values of the block consider the operating costs of extraction, processing and
general and administrative expenses. In addition, metal prices, average cost of inputs, a
recovery model by rock type, with a constant slope angle of 45 ° are used to produce a
theoretical maximum pit containing the highest possible net economic value. For our present
evaluation of the project at the conceptual level, we have considered the following
optimization parameters.
METAL
MO
METAL
PRICE
LOM
7700
UNIDAD
$/tonnes
CU
33000
$/tonnes
Unit Operating cost
Mining Cost ore
2
Mining Cost waste
1.8
Processing-Mill
4.67
Processing-Leach
5.1
G&A Cost
1.2
Production
Oxides
Mixed
Metal
Copper
Copper
Molybdenum
Likewise, the commercial terms were defined
$/t mined
$/t mined
$/t processed
$/t processed
$/t processed
Recovery
85.00%
85.00%
65.00%
Metal payments
Payable Copper-Mill
Payable Copper-Leach
Payable Molybdenum-Mill
Treatment factors
Copper Concentrate
Copper Grade
Moisture
Treatment Charge
Refining Charge Cu
Trucking and port
95%
95%
60%
30%
8%
80$/dmt
0.08$/lb
180 $/wmt Cu
This provides us with the following graph, which describes the amount of ore and waste to
be extracted in each pit generated, with their respective net value. Carrying out the pit by pit
analysis,we define the mining phases.
15.2 Pit by Pit
This provides us with the following graph, which describes the amount of ore and waste to
be extracted in each pit generated, with their respective net value. Performing the pit by pit
analysis we define the mining phases.
Phase/Code Factor
Pit 1 (5)
Pit 2 (6)
Pit 3 (7)
Pit 4 (8)
Pit 5 (9)
Pit 6 (10)
Pit 7 (11)
Pit 8 (12)
Pit 9 (13)
Pit 10 (14)
Pit 11 (15)
Pit 12 (16)
0.05
0.06
0.07
0.08
0.09
0.10
0.11
0.12
0.13
0.14
0.15
0.16
NPV
MUSD
6.37
18.03
27.33
36.33
106.89
206.49
382.42
946.85
1,154.92
1,357.21
1,543.01
1,872.74
Profit
MUSD
6.68
19.03
29.02
38.77
116.29
226.92
424.43
1,062.96
1,301.83
1,536.57
1,754.46
2,145.67
Revenue
MUSD
0.23
0.73
1.20
1.75
5.99
13.73
29.43
82.86
104.56
127.78
150.78
195.47
Processing
Cost
MUSD
0.07
0.27
0.49
0.70
3.41
6.71
12.58
33.25
42.35
51.58
60.68
77.47
Mining
Cost
Total Ore
MUSD MTONNES
0.04
0.04
0.14
0.12
0.25
0.19
0.36
0.28
1.79
0.96
3.48
2.21
6.46
4.76
16.98
13.39
21.65
16.90
26.36
20.67
31.00
24.40
39.52
31.68
Pit 13 (17) 0.17
3,259.54 3,814.36
Pit 14 (18) 0.18
6,882.20 8,215.01
Pit 15 (19) 0.19 13,474.49 16,324.91
Pit 16 (20) 0.20 17,296.09 21,077.03
Pit 17 (21) 0.21 18,048.51 22,026.85
Pit 18 (22) 0.22 18,686.78 22,843.62
Pit 19 (23) 0.23 19,296.69 23,634.48
Pit 20 (24) 0.24 19,759.38 24,242.73
Pit 21 (25) 0.25 20,172.18 24,795.42
Pit 22 (26) 0.26 20,814.47 25,663.34
Pit 23 (27) 0.27 21,035.15 25,964.91
Pit 24 (28) 0.28 21,250.04 26,262.91
Pit 25 (29) 0.29 21,462.99 26,561.95
Pit 26 (30) 0.30 21,604.81 26,764.68
Pit 27 (31) 0.31 21,742.56 26,963.87
Pit 28 (32) 0.32 21,854.93 27,128.94
Pit 29 (33) 0.33 21,917.47 27,222.17
Pit 30 (34) 0.34 22,024.97 27,384.80
Pit 31 (35) 0.35 22,074.64 27,461.08
Pit 32 (36) 0.36 22,157.21 27,589.46
Pit 33 (37) 0.37 22,186.33 27,635.37
Pit 34 (38) 0.38 22,241.45 27,723.62
Pit 35 (39) 0.39 22,272.46 27,774.19
Pit 36 (40) 0.40 22,316.23 27,846.59
Pit 37 (41) 0.41 22,333.60 27,875.70
Pit 38 (42) 0.42 22,351.84 27,907.03
Pit 39 (43) 0.43 22,365.48 27,930.71
Pit 40 (44) 0.44 22,382.39 27,960.75
Pit 41 (45) 0.45 22,388.42 27,971.59
Pit 42 (46) 0.46 22,397.70 27,988.67
Pit 43 (47) 0.47 22,403.47 27,999.46
Pit 44 (48) 0.48 22,414.95 28,021.29
Pit 45 (49) 0.49 22,421.42 28,033.95
Pit 46 (50) 0.50 22,430.06 28,051.08
Pit 47 (51) 0.51 22,433.79 28,058.64
Pit 48 (52) 0.52 22,434.34 28,059.79
Pit 49 (53) 53.00% 22,439.65 28,071.00
Pit 50 (54) 54.00% 22,440.92 28,073.76
Pit 51 (55) 55.00% 22,447.04 28,087.17
398.45
946.82
1,978.92
2,585.83
2,709.69
2,821.70
2,935.99
3,024.12
3,109.44
3,243.59
3,290.27
3,337.16
3,386.29
3,419.88
3,452.64
3,479.22
3,494.47
3,521.87
3,534.48
3,555.86
3,563.60
3,578.05
3,586.81
3,598.87
3,603.28
3,608.22
3,611.86
3,616.64
3,618.28
3,620.94
3,622.56
3,626.01
3,627.90
3,630.44
3,631.63
3,631.79
3,633.73
3,634.10
3,636.14
156.37
385.99
871.50
1,195.12
1,268.65
1,335.14
1,401.81
1,459.24
1,513.80
1,605.28
1,639.50
1,675.71
1,712.67
1,739.99
1,768.66
1,794.79
1,810.23
1,837.96
1,851.96
1,876.39
1,885.44
1,904.11
1,914.91
1,931.49
1,938.81
1,946.97
1,953.38
1,961.72
1,964.89
1,970.02
1,973.43
1,980.33
1,984.63
1,990.57
1,993.22
1,993.66
1,997.62
1,998.74
2,003.99
79.65
197.12
447.89
616.54
655.10
689.95
724.81
754.98
783.63
831.90
850.00
869.21
888.79
903.31
918.61
932.61
940.87
955.75
963.29
976.44
981.32
991.41
997.23
1,006.21
1,010.18
1,014.61
1,018.09
1,022.62
1,024.35
1,027.15
1,029.00
1,032.76
1,035.11
1,038.36
1,039.81
1,040.05
1,042.21
1,042.82
1,045.69
64.97
155.78
326.34
426.54
447.10
465.79
484.91
499.72
514.11
536.81
544.70
552.63
560.96
566.64
572.20
576.70
579.29
583.93
586.07
589.70
591.01
593.46
594.95
597.00
597.75
598.59
599.20
600.01
600.29
600.74
601.01
601.60
601.92
602.35
602.55
602.58
602.91
602.97
603.32
Figure 15.2.1 Pit by Pit Analysis
15.3Cut off
To estimate the reserves of the project we are based on economic criteria defined by the
cutofflaw. Due to the polymetallic deposit, the proposed cut-off grade is ($ / t), which is
determined as follows:
𝑁𝑆𝑅𝑐 = (𝑀𝑜 + 𝑃𝑜 + 𝑂𝑜) − (𝑀𝑤 + 𝑃𝑤 + 𝑂𝑤)
Mo: Mining cost per metric ton of ore
Po: Processing cost per metric ton processed
Oo: General cost per metric ton processed
Mw: Mining cost per metric ton of waste
According to the parameters considered, we obtain

The cut-off NSR for Milling = 39.9 $ / tonnes

The cut-off NSR for Leach =37.04 $/tonnes
 Metal Factor-VALOR PUNTO
Cobre-Mill
Cobre-Leach
Mo-Mill
56.34 $/t- %Cu
63.86 $/t-%Cu
120.33 $/t-%Mo
Table 15.3.1. Point Values
16.Mine Design
For this, the mining equipment must have been previously selected. These roads constitute
the route for transporting ore and waste rockfrom the active extraction areas to the upper Edge
of the pit.
The operational design is affected by the current trend of deeper mines, which increases
the transport distance; and economies of scale, which affect team size. The possible effects
of both factors are decrease in the useful life of trucks and their tires, loss of productivity,
poor driving quality, and excessive generation of airborne dust. These aforementioned effects
translate into high maintenance costs (of equipment and roads) and loss of safety in the
operation.
An open pit mine requires coordinating the execution of its daily productive activities with
theexecution of construction activities and access ramps, which must satisfy the following
restrictions(Vásquez, Galdames, & LeFeaux, 2007; Atkinson, 1992):

Allow free, safe and timely access to a specific area, in accordance with the production
schedule. This task is not so simple, especially in conditions in which various activities
are carried out in the same sector, so its planning should generate the least negative
impact on the rest of the operation.

Comply with the geometric restrictions of the equipment and transport activities, in
order to guarantee that the equipment that circulates on the ramps does so in safe
conditions for its operation and avoiding its premature deterioration.

Comply with the geomechanical restrictions of the sector since it must be exempt from
any risk of instability in the mine.

Allow the extraction of all material related to the sector.

Allow parallel activities to be carried out with complete safety.
A good design of the geometry of a ramp must comply with all the geometric specifications
imposed by geotechnics and, in addition, deliver the greatest possible economic benefit
(Thompson R. 2011), contained in the reserves of the pit design with ramp. This geometric
arrangement must consider: the economic scenario with which the optimal final pit is
evaluated, the equipment that transits the ramp, the mining plan, the pit area, and the deposit
area.
For the selection of phases, the 50-pit run was made, of which Pit 19,22,25 and 34 were
chosen.
Figure 16.1 Mining sequencing
Pit 34 was taken as the final pit, which gave us as a result.
The geometric components of the mining slope are presented in the following table:
Ángulo OVERALL
45°
Ángulo de BFA
70°
Berma
6.1 metros
altura de banco
10 metros
Table 16.3 Geometric Parameters
For the design of the ramp, the following considerations are taken, adding that the slope of
theramp is 12%, obtaining a design ramp width of 29 meters.
Table 16.4. Ramp width calculation.
16.1 Mineral Reserves
The mineral reserves of the project consider only categories of measured and indicated
resources, which have been converted to the categories of proven and probable reserves,
respectively. Mineral Reserves are defined as the material that will be fed to the process plant
in the mine plan already described and have proven to be economically viable.
RESERVES
MTONNES
CU%
MO%
PROVEN
420.370
0.48
0.06
PROBABLES
218.414
0.65
0.08
PROVEN+PROBABLE
638.784
0.59
0.07
Table 16.1.1. Proven and probable mineral reserves
16.2Mining Method
16.2.1Production rate and sizing
Determine the preliminary production rate, in a range of 20 mtonnes / year, according to
the preliminary production plan
año1
año2
año3
año4
año5
año6
año7
año8
año9
año10
año11
año12
año13
ore Mtonnes waste Mtonnes
20.39
12.46
21.34
17.50
22.08
7.01
20.30
11.00
21.14
32.65
22.56
8.61
22.86
11.25
23.53
10.76
21.36
33.13
21.17
45.35
22.31
12.45
21.44
49.34
20.34
33.21
Cu
0.79
0.57
0.78
0.51
0.32
0.77
0.67
0.6
0.31
0.39
0.57
0.45
0.39
Table 16.2.1.Preliminary Plan Production
Mo
0.09
0.07
0.09
0.1
0.04
0.1
0.09
0.08
0.04
0.06
0.06
0.05
0.07
Figure 16.2.1Preliminary Plan Prodution
16.3 Calculation of equipment numbers
16.3.1 Drilling Calculation
The selected model is
MODELO CAT:
MD6250
Figure 16.3.1 Drilling Machine
Table 16.3.1 Parameter for Drilling Selection
Table 16.3.2 Number of Drilling Selected
17. RECOVERY METHODS
17.1 Plant Design
Two plants have been designed to treat minerals, namely:
• Leaching plant that treats oxide ore to produce copper cathodes.
• Flotation plant for the treatment of sulphur minerals to produce copper and molybdenum
concentrates.
17.1.1 Oxide ore plant
The project uses sulfuric acid leaching to extract copper from oxide ore. The leached copper is
purified and improved by SX to provide a rich electrolyte to the EW plant, which produces
copper cathodes. Feed for the leaching process is prepared by crushing and sieving.
The flowchart of the oxide ore process is shown in Figure X. The flowchart comprises:
17.1.2 Four-stage crushing circuit
The ore is delivered by mining trucks that are dumped directly into the ROM container.
A reserve of coarse ore provides augmentation capacity between the primary and secondary
crushing stages to account for mine transport cycles and maintenance requirements.
The dust generated throughout the crushing plant is controlled by a combination of dust
suppression and dust collection systems. The tip of the truck is closed on three sides and wetting
sprinklers have been included to remove dust.
17.1.3 Tub leaching
The crushed ore is extracted from the fine ore deposit and sprayed with dilute sulfuric acid as
it passes from one discharge conveyor to another to promote leaching. The acidified ore is
transported by a conveyor to be loaded into leaching tanks.
The acidified mineral is loaded into a tub by a trigger conveyor until the tub is filled, leaving
300 mm of freeboard in the tub. The tank is then flooded with a dilute solution of sulfuric acid
that is introduced through the base of the tank, under a filtration bed. The solution overflows
from the top of the tub into a laundry room from which the solution is channeled to the next
tub or storage pond.
At the end of the leaching cycle, the remaining solution is drained from the tub and the wet
residual solids ("gravel") are removed by a shell spoon, placed in a hopper and discharged into
a transport system for transfer to the gravel dump.
Solution management is designed as a countercurrent system to maximize the copper content
of the leaching solution prior to treatment at the SX/EW plant.
The PLS is clarified and then stored in a covered retention pond before being pumped into the
SX circuit.
17.1.4 Clarification
Fixed-bed clarifiers have been specified due to their proven performance in fine removal from
copper leaching solutions.
The clarified PLS solution gravitates towards the PLS pond, and the solids from the lower flow
of the clarifier are pumped into the vats.
17.1.5 Solution ponds
The PLS pond is covered to reduce evaporation and prevent the collection of windblown solids.
The refining pond is not covered and also serves as an emergency reservoir in case one of the
tubs drains by accident or intentionally in an emergency.
17.1.6 Gravel
The gravel that remains after the leaching stage is removed from the vat by a unloading crane
The shell discharges the gravel into a hopper that feeds the gravel receiving conveyor. This
material is then transported to the gravel area via three unloading conveyors. The last gravel
conveyor feeds a container, from which haulage trucks are loaded for final disposal at the
adjacent gravel dump
17.1.7 Solvent Extraction (SX)
The SX process involves the selective extraction of copper from the relatively diluted PLS to
produce a high-purity, high-tenor copper sulfate solution suitable for the EW process. The SX
system is composed of a single train that includes two sedimentator extraction mixers that treat
the PLS. These are in series with a loaded organic wash mixer settler and then an extraction
mixer-settler, which produces the electrolyte-rich feed for electrodeposition.
17.1.8 Electrodeposition (EW)
The copper EW circuit uses permanent cathode technology to produce LME Grade A cathode
copper. EW is realized using a total of 122 cells at a rated current density of 320 A/m2. Copper
plating is continuous for a period of six days before the cathodes are removed and processed
for shipment.
The copper-rich electrolyte ("strong electrolyte") passes into the EW circuit where the copper
is recovered in the form of copper cathodes. The electrolyte that has been depleted of copper
during the EW process, ("spent electrolyte"), is recycled to the strip stage in the SX circuit.
17.1.9 Reagents

Sulphuric acid

Flocculant

Extractant

Diluent

Guar

Cobalt sulphate
17.1.10 Services
 Raw water
 Fire water
 Drinking water
 Plant air and instrumentation
Figure 17.1. Oxide ore Process Flowchart
17.1.11 Sulphide ore plant
The main products of the concentrator plant are copper concentrate and molybdenum
concentrate.
The areas involved are: primary crushing, stockpile and recovery, copper grinding, flotation,
whirlpooling, thickeners, concentrators, filters, tailings thickeners, molybdenum plant,
reagents, services and pools and runoff.
The tailings are pumped to the tailings reservoir for storage and the water returns through a
pipe parallel to the processing plant to be reused.
Figure 17.1.11. Flowchart of the sulfur minerals process.
17.1.12 Primary crushing
A 63" x 118" rotating crusher receives a ROM up to 1 m in size and reduces it to less than 125
mm. A variable-speed belt feeder delivers the ore from the crusher chamber to the coarse ore
pile feed conveyor.
17.1.13 Storage and recovery system for crushed ore
The grinding circuit requires two SAG mill feed conveyors. The double (almost parallel)
recovery chambers are used to house a total of four platform feeders that extract the ore from
the crushed ore pile to the SAG mill feed conveyors.
17.1.14 Grinding
The grinding circuit consists of two mill trains, each train identical, treating 1875 t / h. Each
train consists of a single FLSmidth semi-autogenous crushing mill (SAG), a ball mill, and a
possible addition of a pebble crusher (SABC). The ball mills operate in a closed circuit with a
cyclonic group FLSmidth (Krebbs)to produce a product of the grinding circuit of 80% passing
up to 130 μm.
17.1.15 BULK flotation of CU-MO
The function of the copper flotation area is to recover copper and molybdenum in a bulk
concentrate, while rejecting the coarse sulfide-free bargain for the rougher tailings and rejecting
the zinc, lead and iron sulfides for the drain of cleansing tailings.
17.1.16 Molybdenum separation
The function of the molybdenum flotation area is to recover the molybdenum in a molybdenum
concentrate and reject the copper in the tailings as a copper concentrate. The stages of
molybdenum flotation are: rougher cleaners, from the 1st to the 5th stage and cleaners
17.1.17 Spacing and filtration of copper concentrate
17.1.18 Storage and loading of copper concentrate
After filtering, the copper concentrate is transferred to a copper concentrate product storage
stack using a front loader inside the copper concentrate and loading building.
18. INFRASTRUCTURE
18.1 General Infrastructure
The distance between the pit and the mine is an important point that must be taken into account
for infrastructure design. The distance it must have is 500 m or 1 km maximum between the
limits of the Pad and the pit, beyond that an evaluation has to be made if it is profitable for
them to transport the ore to the Pad.
The distance should be as close as possible between the pit and the plant to avoid transportation
costs and installation of equipment.
The solution collection pool and the electro solvent plant are usually as close to the Pad as
possible and at the lowest level. Their goal is to accumulate all casualties. Their goal is to
accumulate all the draining solutions that flow from the Pad gravitationally. The camp or other
commonly used infrastructure is located away from the pit for safety reasons.
INFRASTRUCTURE
DISTANCE (m)
TAGUS
DUMP
498.25
DUMP
TAILINGS
1975.19
TAGUS
PAD
387.05
PLANT
TAILINGS
1285.87
TAGUS
PLANT
1000
PLANT
CAMP
2127.88
PAD
ELECTR PLANT. SOLV.
120
Table 18.1 Distances between infrastructures
18.1.1 Track Gauge
During primary extraction, a safety bank is left on each level. The width varies with the height
of the bench. Generally the width of the safety bank is on the order of 2/3 of the height of the
bench. At the end of the mine's life, safety benches are sometimes reduced in width to about
1/3 of the height of the bench.
A common bench height in large open pits is 50 feet (15 m). For smaller wells, the value is 40
feet (12 m). For small gold deposits, a typical value is 25 feet (7.5 m). The height of the bench
must match the loading equipment. When using shovels, the height of the bench should be
within the maximum excavation height.
Normally, the battery has a height greater than or equal to the radius of the tire. The slope of
the berm is considered approximately 35◦ (the angle of repose), this is observed in the figure
below.
Figure 18.1.1 Typical Track Section
18.1.2 Tailings Design
The method that offers better safety is the Downstream Construction Method, which consists
of depositing the coarse part of the tailings (sands) in such a way that, both in the wall and in
the crowning, it allows to grow downwards of the work, giving this greater sustenance, and
leaning on the sands previously deposited; this, accompanied by adequate compaction, offers
greater physical stability.
Design considerations:
● Location of the area for the tailings deposit
● Geological characterization of the area
● Climatic
and
hydrological
conditions
of
the
tailings
deposit
site
area.
● Seismic conditions of the project area
● Determination of geotechnical conditions.
● Selection of the type of dam
● Metallurgical balance
● Granulometric characteristics of the general tailings
Main factors for the location of the tailings dam:
● Total site storage capacity and expansion potential.
● Maximum distance to the plant and the corresponding approximate length of the tailings
pipeline
Difference in elevation between the reservoir and the plant
● Dam volume required to retain overflow tailings produced
● Relationship between the maximum capacity of the tailings reservoir and the volume of
the dam, which is called the Storage Ratio.
18.2 Water Management
Due to the peculiar geographical configuration of the Nasca Plate, there is no hydrographic
basin that provides surface water to the Project, nor to the district of Maranta. Taking into
consideration the distances that exist with surface resources. The nearest freshwater source is
in the Quebrada Jahuay aquifer, at a distance of 38 km east of San Juan de Maranta and 19.6
km from the project, in the Arequipa province of Carabela. Water for population use is
extracted from this aquifer, which is diverted to the town of Maranta through a pipeline
operated by Shanchi SAC.
The pumping of the Maranta well field should not adversely affect the Shanschi SAC/Maranta
field, located 9.6 km south of the Project well.
Therefore, the Alto Jahuay aquifer is the preferred source, in view of its relative proximity, its
better water quality and less potential for interference with other users.
18.3 Electricity Management
The Maranta project has a long-term power supply agreement with a generator that will deliver
power to the distribution grid operated by Red de Energía del Perú S.A (ISA REP).
ISA REP launched the country's first 500,000-volt transmission line, the Chilca – La Planicie
– Zapallal project, marking a milestone in Peru's energy history.
The project's electrical system has a 220 kV overhead line of 15 km supported by steel towers
and will be connected to the grid on the 220 kV bus of the REP's Maranta substation. The 220
kV overhead power line ends in the plant's high-voltage shunting yard on the 220 kV bus. A
22.9 kV power line runs between the Jahuay drilling field and an intermediate pumping station.
The line is supported by wooden poles.
18.4 Mine Closures
The legislation on closure (Peruvian Law 28090) requires that every operation has an approved
closure plan and financial guarantees of capacity to cover the estimated closing costs.
The closure plan for the operation aims to ensure the physical and chemical stability of the
various components of the project after closing, and to return the environment to a condition
similar to that which was before the implementation of the Project. The main closure activities
concern the reduction of landfill slopes, in order to ensure physical stability, and the coating of
potentially acid-generating materials with inert material.
The closure plan confirms the demolition of the infrastructure and the levelling of the areas
involved. Finally, and depending on the requirements of government regulators and local
communities, it is up to local communities, ownership of some of the infrastructure, e.g. the
water pipe and/or the power transmission line, to be transferred to the community for use after
closure.
18.5 Market and Contract Research
The company conducted an analysis of copper and molybdenum prices and market conditions.
The analysis includes a review of the current anticipated treatment of smelter and/or refinery
charges and penalties, costs associated with handling concentrates, and shipping costs to
potential customers. All information was obtained from public and underwriting sources, Metal
prices were collected from the London Metal Exchange (LME). The information provided was
used as a guide to develop all payments and expenses associated with the sale of MARANTA
concentrates.
20. ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES, SOCIAL IMPACT AND PERMITS
20.1 Legal Framework
Peruvian legislation establishes that public or private investment projects that will be executed
in the national territory and that are likely to cause significant environmental impacts of a
negative nature, require the prior realization of an environmental impact assessment and the
consequent approval of the environmental study that supports it, by the competent authority.
This requirement extends to modifications, extensions or diversification of such projects,
provided that they involve a change with respect to the original project that could generate new
or greater negative environmental impacts.
This study will be governed by Law No. 28611, General Law of the Environment; Law No.
27446, Law on the National System of Environmental Impact Assessment; Law No. 28090,
Law Regulating the Closure of Mines; and by Law No. 27444, Law on General Administrative
Procedure, as well as their respective regulatory, amending and complementary norms. The
Ministry of Energy and Mines (MINEM), through the General Directorate of Mining
Environmental Affairs (DGAAM), is competent to evaluate and approve or disapprove, as
appropriate, environmental studies for the development of mining exploration activities.
Ambit
Regulator
National Environmental Policy (Supreme Decree No. 012-2009- MINAM and other authorities
MINAM)
Environmental Regulations for Mining Exploration Activities MINEM
(Supreme Decree No. 020-2008-EM).
Regulations on Occupational Safety and Health and Other MINEM
Complementary Measures in Mining (Supreme Decree No. 0552010-EM)
Law on Water Resources (Law No. 29338), Regulation (Supreme ANNA
Decree No. 001-2010-AG)and amendments
Maximum Permissible Limits for the discharge of liquid effluents MINEM - MINAM
from mining-metallurgical activities (Supreme Decree No. 0102010-MINAM)
Regulations on Environmental Quality Standards for Air (Supreme MINAM
Decree No. 074-2001-PCM) and updating of standards for lead
(Supreme Decree No.069-2003-PCM)
Regulations on the Classification of Land by Its Capacity for MINAGRI
Greater Use (Supreme Decree No. 017-2009-AG)
Forestry and Wildlife Act (Act No. 29763)
MINAGRI
Governments
Law No.
30299, Law on Firearms, Ammunition, Explosives, SUCAMEC
/
Regional
Pyrotechnic Products and Related Materials for Civilian Use
Law on the Supervisory Agency for Investment in Energy and OSINERGMIN
Mining - OSINERGMIN (Law No. 26734), Regulation (Supreme
Decree No. 054-2001-PCM) and amendments
20.2. Environmental Obligations
An Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) is required to start mining activities.
The EIAS is in the process of being completed and will be presented in the coming months.
Assuming UNI SAC. decide to develop the Maranta Project, the process of obtaining the
necessary construction and exploitation permits and other consents should continue, following
the established path.
Priority areas include the acquisition of water rights for the Jahuay aquifer, and the
establishment of surface rights for the aqueduct and power lines.
20.3 Environmental Permits
In the regulations, exploration activities are classified into the following categories:
Category A: Activities that cause slight or no alteration to the surface.
● Does not require communicating to the MEM
● It does not cause greater alteration than the ordinary use of people outside the
exploration
Category B: They cause dumping and waste disposal is required.
(a) A maximum of 20 drilling rigs
b) An area effectively disturbed less than 10 hectares considering together these platforms,
trenches, auxiliary facilities and accesses
c) The construction of tunnels up to 50 meters in length, as a whole.
● Does not require communicating to the MEM
Category C: They cause waste and waste disposal is required
a) More than 20 drilling rigs
b) An effectively disturbed area greater than 10 hectares considering in
set of platforms, trenches, auxiliary installations and accesses
c) The construction of tunnels of more than 50 meters in length, as a whole.
● Requires communicating to the MEM to start activity
● Introduces the MEM to an EA
● Citizen Participation
The Maranta Mine exploration project received Category C.
20.4Socio-economic
The Maranta project is located in an agricultural region, where grapes, cotton, asparagus, olives
and other products are grown. The Ica region is also home to the main iron mine on the Pacific
coast.
The village of San Juan de Maranta has a population of approximately 15 933 inhabitants and
is located about 24 km from the Maranta Project
The population of Maranta does not have a drainage service inside their home. The data of the
last census show that 75.74% of registered homes have a public drainage network within the
same house, 8.44% of houses have a public drainage network, but outside the house and
12.71% of homes do not have this service. In the rest of the registered houses, septic tanks,
blind or black wells and canal or ditch are used.
It was recorded that 85.81% of the homes have electric lighting. The rest of the homes (14.16%)
do not have this important service.
The Maranta project will contribute to the local community through jobs, local purchases of
goods, services and taxes.
20.4.1 New Technologies
It is evaluated to opt for the change from Diesel to Green Hydrogen, which its name has been
given by hydrogen generated from renewable sources. This compound (H2) is produced from
water and renewable energy. Its importance lies in the energy it generates, which is three times
greater than gasoline and, in addition, as a product of its use it does not generate greenhouse
gases.
In Ica we have the Port of Maranta that can be used for the export of hydrogen to other
countries. A Peru LNG regasification plant is also located, which could generate supply for the
production of H2.

Green hydrogen: from the electrolysis of water

Grey hydrogen: from natural gas reforming
The change from diesel to Green Hydrogen is made because in the coming years it will
have a highly competitive market and will lower costs being feasible the use, another
point by which the change is made is due to its geography, since it has the Maranta port
relatively close and a regasification plant that will be able to process green hydrogen.