Arquivos MINING - Page 3 of 4

Mineral prospection in Brazil

In Brazil, the term “garimpo” (mineral prospection) or “garimpagem” (prospecting activities) is usually associated with the activity of extracting valuable mineral resources such as gold in a rustic and irregular way, with a dismissive meaning. Cases such as Serra Pelada, in Carajás, broaden this view.

But it is important to know that the activity of mining is only one form of exploitation of mineral resources, among many others. And, furthermore, it is a duly regulated and inspected practice that moves the Brazilian economy significantly every year.

To learn more about mineral prospection in Brazil, read our content to the end!

Definition of mineral prospection

We can define mineral prospection (garimpo), in general, as the practice of exploitation of mineral resources in nature that occurs with investments considered low scale and simple technology, which can be mechanized, but usually occurs manually.

These characteristics are justified by the geology of the mineral deposits targeted for mining, which are usually outcropping on the surface, facilitating open-pit mining, or in some cases, through galleries that expose the rock located at a shallow depth.

Mining prospection in Brazil

In Brazil, the practice of mining is historically known due to its contribution to the national development of our civilization, and the first records of the activity in the country date back to the 16th century.

The mineral reserve exploitation through mining activity is responsible for ensuring raw materials for various other industry segments, highlighting its importance.

According to recent data, mining is constantly growing in Brazil unlike large-scale industrial mining, concentrated mainly in Minas Gerais, and Brazilian states of Pará and Mato Grosso stand out due to a major presence of mining enterprises.

Regularization of the activity

The regularization, as well as the inspection of mining undertakings in Brazil is carried out by the National Mining Agency (ANM), formerly the National Department of Mineral Production (DNPM).

The authorizing title for mining granted by the regulatory agency for these enterprises is called Mining Permit (PLG), and the exploration is subject to some specific rules, such as not using explosives, not performing underground mining and not exceeding the limit of the saprolite.

The list of minerals considered “mineable” by the regulatory agency is not short, including diamonds, minerals from the mica group, gold, quartz and its varieties, and so on.

The Mining Permit (PLG) can be applied for by any Brazilian individual or cooperative of miners, and is valid for 5 years, always renewable for an equal term at the discretion of the ANM.

In addition, the size of the mining areas is established by the norms of the National Mining Agency, with a maximum of 50 hectares being allowed for individual applicants and 1,000 hectares when granted to a mining cooperative.

Positive impacts of mining activity

Mining, when done legally, has a number of positive aspects, since besides being a basic industry, mining is an important source of income for the country. Some benefits are:

- Tax collection: The mining enterprises collect taxes for the federal government, states and municipalities, cooperating in a relevant way to the economy, mainly in the regions where they are located.
- Job creation: The sector contributes by creating a number of direct and indirect jobs, ensuring income for many families.
- Infrastructure: The installation of new infrastructure is a recurring need in mining projects, since they are usually located in remote areas. Therefore, they provide opportunities for beneficial works for the town and local community, such as new roads, energy services, commerce, and so on.
- Sustainable Exploration: In order to regularize a mining enterprise, it is necessary to prove through environmental licenses actions that minimize the environmental damage caused, ensuring that the mining activity will occur in accordance with sustainable development.

All this means that mining is transformed into wealth, acting as a major vector for regional and national development.

Core Case supports the legal and sustainable mining

Core Case is present wherever there is quality mining carried out responsibly!

Our values are based on developing intelligent, technological, and economically sustainable solutions so that mining enterprises can grow more and more and contribute to the national development, without giving up the environmental responsibility that is increasingly necessary!

Learn more about Core Case and our solutions!

References:

Cetem. Disponível em: http://mineralis.cetem.gov.br/bitstream/cetem/1233/1/extracao-ouro%20cap.11.pdf

Unesp. Disponível em: https://revista.fct.unesp.br/index.php/pegada/article/view/3892/3209

UOL. Disponível em: https://www1.folha.uol.com.br/ambiente/2022/09/garimpo-cresce-no-brasil-e-mais-de-91-de-sua-area-esta-na-amazonia.shtml#:~:text=Dados%20do%20MapBiomas%20apontam%20concentra%C3%A7%C3%A3o,Par%C3%A1%20e%20em%20Mato%20Grosso&text=A%20%C3%A1rea%20de%20garimpo%20no,segunda%2Dfeira%20(26).

Geoscan. Disponível em: https://www.geoscan.com.br/blog/garimpo-e-ilegal-saiba-neste-texto/ e https://www.geoscan.com.br/blog/lavra-garimpeira/.

Jazida.com. Disponível em: https://blog.jazida.com/regime-de-lavra-garimpeira/.

Chiavini e Santos. Disponível em: https://www.chiaviniesantos.com/noticia/permissao-de-lavra-garimpeira-plg/

Gazeta digital. Disponível em: https://www.gazetadigital.com.br/colunas-e-opiniao/colunas-e-artigos/aspectos-positivos-da-legalizao-de-garimpos/672010#:~:text=Al%C3%A9m%20de%20o%20Estado%20ter,das%20regi%C3%B5es%20onde%20est%C3%A3o%20localizados.

Cristal Jr. Disponível em: https://cristaljr.com/lavra-garimpeira/

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Drilling applied to environmental studies and investigation

Investigative probes consist of drilling holes in the ground or rock, to capture information about the studied region. Thus, its application is highly advantageous for environmental studies.

Drilling can be used as study strategies during all phases of an environmental investigation, varying the type of Drilling to be carried out according to the project´s final purpose.

Would you like to know more about this topic? Read to the end!

What are the phases that make up environmental research?

Drilling can contribute in different ways to environmental studies, depending on the research phase in which they are used. Generally, its use occurs more frequently in the phase of confirmatory environmental investigation, due to the phase´s purpose. Check it out below:

Preliminary Evaluation

At the preliminary phase, environmental research is based on the definition of possible human interference that could trigger environmental damages.

The studies in this phase are developed with on-site visits, document collection and history of activities developed in the area and, if there is suspicion of environmental damage, a second evaluation phase is developed.

Confirmatory Environmental Investigation

In this phase we seek to confirm the suspicions that occurred in the previous phase, making use of analysis methods such as soil sampling through surveys at strategic points in the study area.

The Drilling methods more used in environmental studies are:

For soil drilling, the percussion method (SPT) is recommended, since it is capable of providing information about the compactness and consistency of soil layers;
For rocks, the most used method is the rotary Drilling by obtaining coring, reaching great depths and enabling analysis as to the degree of alteration, schistosity and quality index, for example.

Detailed investigation

In cases where environmental damage is confirmed in the study area, a detailed investigation is carried out to delimit the damage potential occurred and its zone of influence, as well as possible intervention measures aimed at the area rehabilitation.

How to analyze which type of Drilling should be applied to the environmental study?

Investigative studies through soundings enable knowing the area characteristics in relation to the water table level, the local geological composition in detail, as well as other specific information relevant according to the type of study.

Therefore, the choice of Drilling type to be used in an environmental study should be based mainly on the evaluation interest purposes.

Drilling focusing on environmental studies

The drilling of soils with a view to environmental collection follows ABNT NBR 15492 standard and can be carried out manually, with the percussion method, or using an auger, and can also occur mechanically, using a helical or rotary Auger.

The collection and storage of environmental soil samples is carried out according to ABNT 16434 standard, with the help of liner that ensures the preservation of possible liquid and volatile contaminants for future analysis.

In the case of water samples, the procedures follow ABNT 15847 and ABNT 16435 standards, aiming at greater control and lower contamination of both samples and soil and aquifer characteristics.

How can Core Case help you?

Our company aims to promote planet preservation and, to guarantee this commitment, we are always investing in innovations and technologies that favor a sustainable and responsible exploration!

Learn more about our products! We develop several models of boxes for storage of survey coring that are environmentally sustainable!

We have specialized service for mining companies, drilling, geotechnical, engineering, environmental and related companies.

Count on us!

References:

Horizonte Ambiental. Disponível em: https://horizonteambiental.com.br/sondagem-para-investigacao-ambiental/

FX Sondagens. Disponível em: https://www.fxsondagens.com.br/investigacao-ambiental

JS Sondagens. Disponível em: https://www.jssondagens.com.br/investigacao-ambiental.php

Geo pesquisa. Disponível em: https://www.geopesquisa.com.br/investigacao-ambiental.html

Geocoring. Disponível em: https://geocoring.com.br/investigacao-ambiental/

Suporte solos. Disponível em: https://www.suportesolos.com.br/blog/a-geologia-de-engenharia-ambiental-gea-e-as-sondagens-e-investigacoes-geologicas-e-geotecnicas/214/

Mapa da Obra. Disponível em: https://www.mapadaobra.com.br/capacitacao/tipos-sondagem-do-solo/

Geológicas. Disponível em: https://geologics.com.br/investigacao-ambiental/sondagem-ambiental/

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ESG is one of the main challenges for the mining sector in 2023

As well as in 2022, ESG remains one of the biggest challenges for the mining and metals sector.

As the issue becomes a priority for all stakeholders, the industry is adjusting to ESG factors with corporate strategies, decision-making and reports.

The difference in the long run will come to those who invest in all aspects: social, environmental and governance. The mining sector needs to go further and take a holistic view to gain the investor and community´s trust in which it operates.

Check out the main opportunities and challenges in ESG for the mining sector according to a study by Ernst & Young (EY).

Water management

76% of the respondents cited water management as the main challenge in ESG, and this result has an intense relationship with climate change and concerns about water scarcity that increase year by year.

The close relationship between organizations and government needs to be a priority for mining companies. Together, they can develop plans and initiatives that aim at care and conscious use of resource within organizations.

Circular economy

Circular economy is a concept that associates economic development with a better use of natural resources, through new business models and optimization in manufacturing processes with less dependence on virgin raw material, prioritizing more durable, recyclable and renewable inputs.

This concept goes beyond the scope and focus of waste and recycling management actions, aiming at a broad scope that includes from redesigning processes, products and business models, to optimizing resources use.

Traditionally, mining operations follow a linear process of searching, mining, processing and disposing. A circular economy example in this sector can be the creation of by-products from mining tailings, which can be used both in the mining sector and in other industries.

Biodiversity

Mining companies are under increasing pressure to assess biodiversity risks in their businesses. According to EY’s research, miners will need to demonstrate that mines are considering the long-term impact on biodiversity.

In addition to avoiding negative consequences, miners must also articulate their net positive impact. An action in this case may be preserving forests in the enterprise vicinity, creating parks, zoos and social projects to preserve the local biodiversity.

Data released with credibility and clarity

Organizations around the World Report ESG information through different initiatives and programs. One of the best known and used in Brazil is GRI (Global Reporting Initiative), which enables companies of any size, sector or country to disclose their economic, environmental and social impacts, explaining how they are managed internally.

These reports purpose is ensuring quality and comparability of information that can support the stakeholders decision-making, especially investors, in targeting and allocating capital.

Around the world, regulation of carbon emissions, sustainability and social governance is increasing, and in the mining sector this is no different.

Although regulation on risk management and sustainability reporting is only starting in many countries, there is still no global regulatory standard for mandatory reporting on ESG topics, which makes it difficult to compare companies in a global investment portfolio.

To resolve this issue, IFRS Foundation Trustees formed the ISSB (International Sustainability Standards Board), which aims to develop minimum standards of information and sustainability reports to be used for decision-making in the capital market.

By complying with the new standards and expectations, the mining sector will have an obligation to improve the availability, accuracy, reliability and clarity of the data presented to all.

Mine Closure

This is one of the great industry challenges, the management of existing assets.

A proactive approach to mine closure begins when planning is carried out since the beginning of the enterprise.

Designing a mine with closure in mind allows for continued engagement of owners, employees and communities, creating opportunities for progressive activities closure.

Mine closure impacts a wide range of stakeholders and expectations are rising about how miners mitigate these impacts, including socioeconomic effects on communities.

Improving diversity, equity and inclusion

The main problems include:

Female participation increase: companies still struggle to attract, retain and promote women, depriving them of the spotlight as well as the proven benefits of a more gender-diverse workforce;
Safety and support for the local community: companies need to change the way mining sites are built and operated to improve safety and support for all workers. For example, the construction of local kindergartens and schools could attract different people to mining and provide a positive contribution to the community.
Building a brand with purpose: mining must do more to build a brand aligned with the purpose and values of the next talent generation.

Health and Safety

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many companies have boosted worker health support, but the industry still needs to do more to improve psychological health and safety.

Fly-in fly-out employees, for example, face challenges getting support, a problem that has increased with pandemic-related seclusion and isolation. Bullying and harassment are also other points that are linked to ongoing issues around a lack of diversity, inclusion and respect.

The recently published standard ISO 45003:2021 is a globally recognized framework of how to manage and protect mental well-being at work. It can be an opportunity to reform the safety culture in mining.

Another factor to consider is reintegration into the workforce. Data show that 90% of people who suffer a physical injury return to work within 90 days, but only 50% of people who took leave because of mental health problems returned after six months.

Mining and metals companies need to develop an approach to reintegrate these workers, especially when work is a causal factor behind their illness. This can include, for example, reviewing workloads, creating a support network and ensuring a mentally safe workplace. As physical injuries at work can also trigger mental health challenges, offering physical and mental health support can help employees return to work and full health.

Core Case - a company aligned with ESG pillars

Since the conception, Core Case carries with it the ESG pillars. The company was born to produce cases for survey cores storage in 100% recycled plastic. This goal was achieved and over the 12 years of history, Core Case has become a reference in Brazil.

In addition to the sustainable cases for survey testimonies, Core Case develops actions that favor the development of projects related to corporate governance, environmental and social sustainability.

Know our initiatives: ESG – Core Case.

In addition, we emphasize that the role of Brazilian mining in implementing ESG practices can contribute significantly to an increase in the sector visibility and acceptance, which, despite being so relevant, are still widely criticized by society.

Reference

Top 10 business risks and opportunities for mining and metals in 2023. Ernest & Young.

Circular economy. Available in https://www.portaldaindustria.com.br/industria-de-a-z/economia-circular/#:~:text=Economia%20circular%20%C3%A9%20um%20conceito,mais%20dur%C3%A1veis%2C%20recicl%C3%A1veis%20e%20renov%C3%A1veis.

IFRS. Available in https://www.ifrs.org/groups/international-sustainability-standards-board/.

What is ISSB. Available in https://blog.waycarbon.com/2022/09/a-criacao-do-issb-e-a-unificacao-da-estrutura-de-relato-climatico/.

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Wooden core boxes: 3 reasons not to use them

In recent years, the use of wood for transporting and storing drill cores has come under increasing scrutiny, mainly due to increasingly stringent environmental and occupational safety laws and after QA/QC -related good practices became more widely known and were required in audits in the mining industry.

As we have covered in our blog, drilling is drilling holes in soil or rock and provides valuable information about a mineral deposit.

Any undertaking, be it in the mining, geotechnical, or hydrogeological sector, has a duty to ensure the quality and reliability of these materials. It is from them that various geological characteristics are evaluated with respect to a project.

The correct storage of these materials is required according to the mineral legislation, and is a fundamental requirement for a company to remain competitive in the market.

Having said this, let’s list some points that can make you evaluate the use of boxes made of wood for the storage of core samples. Check it out

Origin of the raw material

Assessing the origin of the material/product used in your company is very important, and with wood it can be no different.

Native wood of legal origin comes from a cut authorized by the competent environmental agency and has a transport and storage license document.

Have you already certified that the wood used in the core sample boxes you use in your project is in fact legalized?

Durability

A very important topic to be considered when purchasing a product is the material’s useful life.

And here we highlight this topic not only because of the financial costs, but also because of the excessive disposal of materials that we cannot reuse, which directly harms the environment.

Wooden boxes are not very efficient in contact with insects and when they are subjected to sun and weather, which can lead to high product turnover, improper disposal and high costs with the storage of core samples.

Ergonomics and work safety

Boxes made of wood are usually very heavy. To its original weight we must add the weight of the core samples that will be stored inside, which can jeopardize the health and safety of the employees that handle these materials.

The norms related to ergonomics were created so that the collaborators are subjected to fewer risks in the work environment and are comfortable to perform their activities.

In addition, we should point out that some dangerous animals such as snakes, spiders, and scorpions can “hide” in wood, posing great risk to the staff.

In the content “Drilling Record: Wooden boxes versus plastic boxes” you can consult some more information on this topic.

Paying attention to the health and safety of employees, cost reduction, and legality of your enterprise can be the key to develop a serious and consolidated company in the market.

We are the Core Case. Where there is quality mining, we are present!

Learn more about our solutions.

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3 benefits of purchasing a patented product

You may have heard the term “Patent” or even that a product is “Patented”. But what does that really mean?

According to the INPI (National Institute of Industrial Property), a patent is a temporary property title over an invention or utility model, granted by the State to inventors or authors or other natural or legal persons holding rights over the creation.

With this right, the inventor or patent holder has the right to prevent third parties, without their consent, from producing, using, offering for sale, selling or importing a product subject to their patent and/or a process or a product obtained directly through a process. patented by him.

To innovate is to risk to transform

Innovation is in our DNA.

Regardless of the sector, the biggest challenge for a company is to create value and make a difference in the consumer’s life with an original and authentic proposal, which is capable of representing, in fact, the essence and vision of the brand, and solving it completely. your client’s pain.

Creating something new is not easy, but innovating is a choice for companies that want to stand out and leave a positive legacy for those who trust their solutions.

The use of wooden boxes for transport and packaging of drill cores used in the mineral sector brought operational difficulties, common in many companies in the mining sector.

To offer a new alternative to the market and solve this problem, Core Case developed solutions and plastic products with the same purpose, but with several advantages.

And that’s where the Patent comes into play.

Core Case product innovations are protected by Patents and Industrial Design Registration in Brazil and abroad, in addition to having ISO 9001 Quality Certification.

Petro Case – one of the Core Case solutions that has been patented.

INNOVATION is one of the pillars that accompanies Core Case, and protecting our creation is fundamental.

However, does this benefit only favor the company or does it also provide benefits to the consumer?

Benefits of purchasing a patented product

1.Transparency and security

From the moment the inventor receives his patent, he is obliged to disclose in detail all the technical content of the patented material/product. In other words, this guarantees transparency and provides security to the consumer, as he will be sure that he has all the necessary information when purchasing such a product.

2.Increase in qualified competition

By purchasing a product that has a patent, you are informing the market that it is necessary to develop high quality products and encourage competitors to seek technological alternatives to stand out in the market.

3.Guarantee of exclusivity

By placing your trust in patented products, you guarantee that you are not purchasing a solution that is considered a “copy” and that you are in fact investing in something exclusive in the market and that will bring the best solutions for your business.

Core Case continues to invest heavily in technology and innovation with the intention of making its products more and more suited to the needs of the sector, while fully respecting the environment.

Did you already know the benefits of the patent?

Discover our solutions and be surprised.

Where there is quality mining, there is Core Case.

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Oil and gas: extraction steps, types of drilling and samples generated

In Brazil, the first survey with the objective of finding Petroleum was carried out in São Paulo, between 1892-1896, by Eugênio Ferreira de Camargo. It reached a depth of 488 meters, but the well produced only sulfurous water. It was only in 1938 that oil was discovered in Lobato, Bahia.

In 1968, the first oil field was discovered on the Brazilian continental shelf, in Sergipe. Since then, many wells have been drilled.

Would you like to know more about the oil, extraction steps, drilling and samples generated in this process? Read this content until the end.

A Brief Introduction on Petroleum

Petroleum is a complex mixture of hydrocarbons and varying amounts of non-hydrocarbons. In short, it is generated from the transformation of organic matter accumulated in sedimentary rocks, when subjected to appropriate thermal conditions.

Oil platform.

When it occurs in the liquid state in subsurface or surface reservoirs, it is called oil (or crude oil, to differentiate it from refined oil).

The mixture of hydrocarbons that is in the gas state on subsurface and turns into liquid on the surface is known a condensate.

Now the term natural gas refers to the fraction of oil that occurs in the gaseous state or in solution in oil in subsurface reservoirs.

Oil extraction steps

Oil is an abundant natural resource, but its research involves high costs and complex studies.

An oil well can be considered as an engineering project, thus, it requires that a series of premises and variables be obeyed, so that the intervention is optimized in time, cost and adequate safety.

Drilling equipment.

Oil, like any mineral good, has well-defined stages for its extraction to be carried out. Here we can briefly summarize 3 of them: prospecting, drilling and extraction.

Prospection

This step is the first to be carried out and aims to carry out studies and apply methods that identify the existence of oil in a given location. These analyses are carried out in sedimentary basins and several direct and indirect methods are used. For this, geologists, geophysicists and paleontologists, among other specialists, gather to carry out the necessary research.

Drilling

At this stage, oil deposits are discovered and several wells are drilled in the surroundings to define the limits of the deposit and assess the volume of reserves. Drilling is a destructive process, where a drill bit advances over the rock formation, breaking it into centimeter to millimeter fragments.

It can be done on land, using drilling rigs, or at sea, with the help of offshore platforms, depending on where the mineral is found.

Extraction

Extraction is influenced by the amount of gas accumulated in the deposit. If it is large, it will be able to push the oil to the surface, without the need for pumping, at least in the initial phase of production, simply by installing a pipe that communicates the well with the outside. If the gas pressure is weak or zero, extraction pumps will be needed.

Types of perforation

During this process, several drillings can and should be carried out in the project in order to find new oil deposits or even to understand in detail the extent of the current explored deposit. Check out some types of perforations:

Pioneer well: well drilled at the beginning of research for oil/natural gas;
Stratigraphic well: aims to map the stratigraphy of the region;
Extension or delimitation well: as the name implies, this type of well is made to enlarge or demarcate the limits of a deposit;
Adjacent Pioneer Well: aims to discover new deposits close to an area that has already been explored;
Well for shallower deposits: this is done with the aim of finding out if there are shallower deposits than those already discovered in a given area;
Well for a deeper deposit: this is done with the aim of discovering if there are deeper deposits than those already discovered in a given area;
Production or development well: well that allows the drainage of oil from a field;
Injection well or injector: aims to increase or improve the recovery of oil and natural gas from a reservoir;

In addition to the concepts mentioned above, we can classify the type of drilling according to the direction:

Vertical well: probe and target (or objective) are vertical;
Directional well: any well in which drilling is not performed vertically;
Horizontal well: made horizontally, especially to ensure better use of oil.

Type of perforation according to direction. Source: Instituto Fisiomar

Samples of rocks and fluids generated in the oil and natural gas exploration and production process

Samples are portions of rock, sediment or fluid extracted from the well, from the ocean floor surface or from the land surface.

According to the ANP, the following samples are collected within the scope of oil and natural gas exploration and production activities in Brazilian sedimentary basins:

Core samples and their respective plugs;
Gutter samples;
Side samples;
Fluid samples;
Rocks or sediments obtained from land or ocean floor surveys.
Thin, biostratigraphic blades and polished sections;
Sample profiling;

Sample types. Source: Petrocase – Core Case

Plugs

Fractions, generally cylindrical, obtained from cores and normally used in petrophysical tests to determine the porosity and permeability of a reservoir rock.

Gutter samples

Biostratigraphic: Type of blade that is prepared with special techniques for the preservation, concentration and recovery of the fossiliferous content of a rock. The analysis of such blades essentially aims at the relative dating and the determination of the sedimentation paleoenvironment.

Thin: A type of blade that is prepared with rock fragments polished to a thin thickness and intended for observation with a transmitted light petrographic microscope (provided with adaptations for microscopic analysis of rocks).

Both aim to determine the mineralogical content of the rock and its microstructures.

Side samples

Samples obtained from the wall of the well, approximately cylindrical in shape, whose acquisition aims to preserve the structure of the rock and provide security as to the depth of the extraction.

Fluids

Substances that do not resist tangential or shear forces, deforming continuously and taking the shape of the container in which it is contained. Examples: water, gas and oil.

Core sample

Sample obtained in a well, usually of cylindrical shape, whose acquisition aims to sample specific strata of rock, preserving its structural characteristics, and with precision in the extraction depth.

Core Case and its performance in the Oil and Gas sector

CORE CASE is a Brazilian-Canadian company with 11 years of existence that has consolidated itself in the mining market and is present in the most important companies in the segment.

Our purpose is to add value to the production process of the largest companies in the extraction of natural resources (mining, oil and gas), prioritizing long-term sustainability.

See in the video below the solutions we have developed for the oil and gas sector.

Count on us on your project!

References

Instituto Fisiomar: http://institutofisiomar.com.br/blog/?p=2103

ANP: https://www.gov.br/anp/pt-br/assuntos/exploracao-e-producao-de-oleo-e-gas/dados-tecnicos/amostras-de-rochas-e-fluidos

Etesco: https://etesco.com.br/extracao-de-petroleo-como-e-feito-esse-processo/ and https://etesco.com.br/perfuracao-quais-os-tipos-existentes/

Igeológico: http://igeologico.com.br/perfuracao-de-pocos-de-petroleo-panorama-geral/

SGB-CPRM: http://www.cprm.gov.br/publique/SGB-Divulga/Canal-Escola/Petroleo-1256.html#:~:text=A%20Petrobras%20est%C3%A1%20entre%20as,commodities%20minerais%20produzidas%20pelo%20Brasil.

Book: Geologia do Petróleo (Petroleum Geology)

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Mining and Agribusiness: what is the relation between these two industries?

Agribusiness and mining are the two of the most relevant industries to the Brazilian economy. According to a research conducted by Cepea (Center for Advanced Studies in Applied Economics), of Esalq/USP, in a partnership with CNA (Confederation of Agriculture and Livestock of Brazil), the Agribusiness industry grew 8.36% in 2021, reaching a 27.4% share in the country’s GDP.

As for income in the mining industry, it grew 62% in 2021, compared to 2020, reaching R$ 339 billion Reais.

Especially due to fertilizers, mining and agribusiness are extremely closely related, to know more, read this article through the end!

Agricultural commodities and fertilizers

Fertilizers are products that provide nutrients for plants to develop, largely used in several cultures for maintaining the soil and improving foods. NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium) is one of the best known fertilizers in the world, and Brazil depends on 90% of the Potassium and 70% of Nitrogen, and 50% of Phosphorus, in terms of importation.

Therefore, mining and the extraction of these natural substances are directly related to the development of agribusiness, considering that the decrease in the production of these fertilizers directly affects the agribusiness.

Soil Remineralization Rock Flour

The rock flour or soil remineralization technique consists in applying fine-grained, silt-sized particles of rock in the soil, for recomposing the fraction of minerals that have been weathered or mined and which carry relevant nutrients to plants (VAN STRAATEN, 2007).

These nutrients can be categorized as:

Macronutrients: K, P, Ca, MG and S;
Micronutrients: B, Cl, Cu, Fe and beneficial elements such Silica.

These remineralizing agents, for originating from silicate minerals, have a wider variety of secondary nutrients and micronutrients relative to soluble fertilizers.

Overall, the SGB-CPRM research has been showing that alkaline volcanic rock, such as phonolites, kamafugites and some basalts have shown very good results as remineralizers, as well as biotite schists.

Moreover, mineral input can be used for correcting soil acidity, among other practices. That contributes to the sustainable development of agriculture, and also to afford more autonomy to that industry.
Regulatory Directive No. 5, of 2016, issued by the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Supply (MAPA) sets the rules for remineralizers, access the link to learn more.

Future Trend

According to some studies and projections of the Ministry of Agriculture, Brazil is likely to have a 27% increase in food production over the next decade, which will increase the need for NPKs and other natural input and application thereof in the agribusiness.

Therefore, the Brazilian Geological Service carried out a mining prospection campaign focused on these inputs in 2020.

For Potassium, the potential of potassium salt deposits was expanded in 70% due to occurrences originated in the Amazonas Bay, which may be geologically similar to other areas that are the world’s top potassium producers, such as Russia and Canada.

As for Phosphate, the carbonatite project was discovered in Rio Grande do Sul in 2009, which has recently had its interim license approved, projecting investments of over R$ 400 million Reais.

Serra Geral Group Agrominerals Project

Last year, SGB-CPRM presented the “Serra Geral Group Agrominerals Project” project in Rio Grande do Sul, which characterized part of the state of the continental basalt Paraná-Etendeka province, of Cretaceous age.

The project was developed for research into alternative sources of agricultural nutrients and soil correctives originating from volcanic rocks from the northern portion of the state, part of the Agromineral Potential Assessment of Brazil, whose objective is

surveying and assessing sources of minerals and rocks for use in the remineralization and soil conditioning technique all across the national territory, focused on materials available in piles of mining tailings.

For this specific study, a field survey was conducted between July 2012 and June 2014, focused on collecting quantities of samples of rock, fine-grade and Zeolites for agronomic testing.

Lithostratigraphic scheme of the Serra Geral group in Rio Grande do Sul and distribution of sampled points. Source: https://rigeo.cprm.gov.br/handle/doc/22373

Were performed:

Petrographic analysis;
Petrographic analysis;
analysis by electron microscopy screening;
X-ray diffractometry analysis;
reflectance spectroscopy (RE) analysis

After all the analysis and lab work, rock samples were characterized according to their potential to build agrominerals, including, in this case, soil remineralizers, soil conditioners, fertilizers or beneficial elements.

The presence of heavy metal Cd in part of the basalt samples in the region ultimately showed restrictions relative to care necessary for preserving food safety in employing these rocks in agriculture.

The work showed the region has potential, but that more specific research must still be conducted for attesting whether or not this material can be used. For seeing the full paper, click this link.

As seen before in future trends and due to the 2022 fertilizer crisis, considering the Ukraine and Russia conflict, the prices of this input has been approximately 78% above the 2021 average. This event proved how important it is investing in this area and how relevant it is, not only for Brazil, but to the entire world.

Therefore, investing in research and prospection of minerals focused on this type of fertilizer and agrominerals is growing more important by the day, and by doing that, the country will know better the potential of its reserves and which areas must be the focus of study and research for this agenda.

References:

https://www.nationalgeographicbrasil.com/meio-ambiente/2022/05/falta-de-fertilizantes-pode-levar-a-crise-alimentar-global-haveria-uma-solucao#:~:text=%E2%80%9COs%20pre%C3%A7os%20est%C3%A3o%20mais%20ou,n%C3%A3o%20est%C3%A3o%20dispon%C3%ADveis%20para%20eles.

https://rigeo.cprm.gov.br/handle/doc/22373

https://www.cepea.esalq.usp.br/br/releases/pib-agro-cepea-pib-do-agro-cresce-8-36-em-2021-participacao-no-pib-brasileiro-chega-a-27-4.aspx#:~:text=Cepea%2C%2016%2F03%2F2022,8%2C36%25%20em%202021.
https://www.cprm.gov.br/remineralizadores/

Mining and Agribusiness: what is the relation between these two industries? Read More »

Core Case won the Top Mining Tech 2022 award from Metals Mining Review magazine

Core Case was highlighted at TOP 10 Mining Tech Award – Company in APAC 2022, and this is yet another recognition for a work that strives for process improvement, sustainability, and application of cutting-edge technologies in the mining industry.

The award is granted by important international media Metals & Mining Review that operates in the technology and mining industry identifying the most relevant companies for professionals and their industry. Published in Florida, present in Europe and also in emerging countries.

Core Case is bringing a much-needed sustainable transformation to the minerals mining industry with its environmentally-friendly, recycled plastic boxes for storing geological core samples. With an emphasis on innovation and environmental responsibility, Core Case’s boxes are designed by geologists with extensive experience in mineral extraction. The core boxes not only help reduce plastic waste through recycling, but also diminish the detrimental environmental impact of using wood products. It’s no surprise Core Case has become a forerunner in adherence to ESG norms.

To drive environment-consciousness in its product lines further, Core Case will continue to leverage sustainable technology

Pioneering in recycled raw materials use

TOP 10 Mining Tech – Company in APAC 2022.

In a unique and visionary environmentally-conscious move, Core Case was one of the early pioneers in using recycled plastics—as opposed to virgin plastic—to build its core boxes. Since the company’s inception 11 years ago, Core Case has been firm in its approach to enabling eco-friendly, sustainable mining operations by leveraging sophisticated recycling technologies and materials. In the initial stages, procuring recycled materials and processing them to produce core boxes was a challenge.

Moving ahead of its initial product line, Core Case today has access to vast amounts of recyclable plastics courtesy of its suppliers and top-notch in-house recycling processes. This has enabled the company to build its robust product line of core boxes, namely Generation I, Generation II, Adapt, Petro Case (for the oil and gas industry) and Chip Case (for RC drilling).

Its team of qualified professionals determines and identifies the parameters of the plastics to be used in core box production, analyzes the recycled raw materials for core box manufacturing, and establishes routines for quality testing, post-production, in the company’s laboratory.

Customer Centricity

The company is defined not just by its innovative, sustainable approach to enabling efficiencies in the mineral extraction industry but also by its customercentric operational processes that enable meeting customers’ varied sample storage requirements well within deadlines.

A notable illustration of Core Case’s dedication to going the extra mile is its Adapt product line. A leading national mining company in Brazil needed adjustable core boxes to boost their sample storage capacity, as well as make it easier to stack the boxes in warehouses. In response to the client’s customization request, Core Case designed and developed the Adapt line. The company modified its existing core boxes by adding a detachable adapter that helps reduce box size. The adapter allows the adjustment of samples storage space in the boxes as per their solid and soft states. This tailor-made product enabled the customer to triple their storage capacity in the warehouse, compared to conventional wooden boxes. The success of this product prompted Core Case to transform it into an entirely new product line.

Material analysis laboratory

The latest addition to Core Case’s offerings is its technology division and business branch, Core Case Tech, launched to improve geological core sample data collection and access. The object of this system is to save time, reduce and, if possible, eliminate any possibility of errors that might occur while taking and recording the information generated by taking core samples: such as the description, sampling details and final storage. The management system is able to help workers who are out in the field, where samples are stored or in the office, by using electronic resources to analyze the geological information and that of the sample. It saves time and creates confidence in the data, by removing many of the inherent mistakes that can result from the conventional process.

A future focused on sustainable technology and expansion

To drive environment-consciousness in its product lines further, Core Case will continue to leverage sustainable technology. “Our focus will be on aligning our product to technology that provides more security, sustainability, and agility when it comes to mining-related processes,” states Flávio Ramos, Administrative Director at Core Case.

Core Case also looks forward to spreading its footprint into more foreign markets. Already well-established in Brazil and commencing business operations in Canada, the company plans to gain a stronger foothold in the Latin American market. With that goal, Core Case will also oversee the development of products better suited to international mining markets. In essence, Core Case will continue on its mission to bring novel, sustainable geological core sample storage solutions to the mining and related industries, transforming and augmenting drilling, extraction, and sampling operations across the mineral exploration sector.

Mold from Generation II product line

Core Case won the Top Mining Tech 2022 award from Metals Mining Review magazine Read More »

Mining Technologies

Like many other industrial sectors, mining is constantly undergoing technological advances, enhancing the development of the industry. The major challenges in mining today are finding new deposits that are economically feasible, along with developing measures to make the processes of a mining project more sustainable. In a world where there is increasing demand for mineral resources but also requiring a more sustainable outlook for the industry, new technologies are critical in all phases of a mining project.

They can promote everything from improved characterization and selection of areas for sampling, development of geological models, improved data storage and management, mine planning, mining and transportation, monitoring, and even closure and environmental recovery of a mine. These aspects comprise reducing the time and expenses of a project, as well as reducing environmental impacts. There are several technologies that can be used in a mining project.

The latest trends in mining technology indicate a compelling industry shift to provide a truly modern, safe, and productive mine that meets the growing demand for extracted materials while exceeding customer expectations and global sustainability initiatives.

In a world where there is increasing demand for mineral resources but also requiring a more sustainable outlook for the industry, new technologies are critical in all phases of a mining project.

Technological innovations in the mining industry

Spatial data view

Spatial data is becoming more detailed and clearer than ever in mining. Three-dimensional (3D) modeling creates a visible, realistic impression with depth perception that allows the human brain to understand and relate to complex interrelated issues. 3D modeling helps companies to rethink the mine more efficiently.

Virtual Reality (VR) is an artificially created software environment that uses real-life data. The virtual environment immerses people into a 3D environment created by the user. VR presents an enhanced impression to help miners experience what it’s like to work in a mine or plan a new mine without an on-field presence.

Augmented Reality (AR) superimposes a digital view onto a real-world environment. AR achieves this by enhancing the user’s visual field with computer-generated inputs such as sound, video, applications, and graphics. Miners use augmented reality to train using virtual simulators, which also helps the industry reduce equipment maintenance costs.

By using new technologies such as spatial data effectively, the mining industry gains insights into mining systems at a reduced cost and impact on the environment.

Geographic Information Systems

Geographic information systems (GIS) are an integral tool that allows deeper insight into how geographic relationships influence the world around us. Geospatial data represents the location, size, and shape of an object. By visualizing this type of data, miners get more information about the represented system or mine environment.

GIS is used to obtain information about:

Mineral exploration
Geochemical and hydrological data
Report generation
Facility and waste management
Sustainability and regulatory compliance

In mining today, geospatial data software allows us to train mine managers and employees in new ways and improve the long-term understanding of mining with virtual interpretations of real-life environments.

Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) now leads decision making in insight-driven companies. They use intelligent data and machine learning to improve operational efficiency, mine safety, and production workflow. Implementing artificial intelligence technology generates day-to-day data in half the time of what was previously used in the field.

The mining industry is evolving rapidly, so machine learning and AI affect the way decisions are made today for the future of mines. Some ways in which AI affects the operating mine:

Mineral processing and exploration: Companies can find minerals more easily using high-performance AI technology.

Autonomous vehicles and drillers: For more than eight years, companies around the world have used autonomous vehicles in their pit-to-pit operations. Autonomous trucks can easily navigate narrow tunnels by using AI. Now, drilling systems are also simplified with a single operator controlling multiple drills simultaneously.

As the mining industry tries to reduce costs and lessen its environmental impact, the use of mining equipment like AI helps ensure safety and reliability for both miners and the land the mines use.

CORE TECH: intelligent and integrated system for the mining industry

Data management during the mining stages is essential for a better project development.

In addition to the correct storage of core samples, Core Case Tech is developing a complete and innovative system to manage drill cores.

The integrated system will act as a whole, starting in the field using a digital data collection via tablet or smartphone. Also in the field, the drill core data will be applied in the cases.

In the storage shed, QR CODE and RFID data will be read by the Core Case Tech’s system. It can be accessed on multiple devices and from any location.

This reading will be done through the Core Case Tech management software, which gets the most accurate information from the collected drill cores and can include photos and other information without physically accessing the drill cores. All in a simple and digital way!

See how it will work:

The purpose of this technology is to save time, reduce and, if possible, totally eliminate the possibility of errors arising in the acquisition and annotation process that occur when extracting the drill core, passing through description, sampling, and final storage.

The management system will work as a facilitator for on-field working professionals, core shop and office, using digital features to analyze geological and drilling data. Saving time, adding assertiveness, and thus reducing as much as possible the inherent bias and errors in the usual process.

TOP Mining Tech – Company Award in APAC 2022

Core Case was highlighted at TOP Mining Tech Award – Company in APAC 2022, and this is yet another recognition for a work that strives for process improvement, sustainability, and application of cutting-edge technologies in the mining industry.

References

Mining Technologies Read More »

Lithium: understand why this element is increasingly relevant in the mining industry

Lithium was discovered in 1818 and is a light metal, commonly found in magma rocks, not occurring freely in nature, as it is a very rare ore. It is worth mentioning that an important Brazilian personality, José Bonifácio de Silva Andrada, discovered 2 lithium minerals, describing, and naming the spodumene and petalite.

According to S&P Global, the demand for lithium should reach 2 million tons by 2030 and in this scenario, Brazil could be one of the main producing countries as it concentrates most of the world’s lithium reserves in Latin America.

Source: CPRM
(https://www.cetem.gov.br/antigo/images/eventos/2016/ii_litio_brasil/apresentacoes/2-avaliacao_do_potencial_geologico_de_litio_br.pdf)

This element has even been called the ” 21st century’s white gold” due to the energy matrix transition that the world is going through, it can be used in several renewable energy sources, which should be adopted by most countries in the years to come, being its main use in batteries for electric vehicles. To learn more about lithium, read this content to the end!

Mining in Brazil

In 2008, only 3 countries had 85% of all the lithium ever found until that year in the world, the demand for this ore has started to increase a lot in the last years, due to the energy transition that will happen for cleaner energy sources. In 2020, according to the USGS, Brazil was the fifth largest lithium producer, reaching 1900 tons, Chile reached 18,000 tons, being second and Australia was first reaching 40,000 tons.

Some research suggests that the demand for lithium will increase up to six times by 2050. According to the general director of the SGB-CPRM, today Brazil’s representation in the world production of lithium is only 1.5%, and may reach 5% in about 10 years, even with this increasing global production.

Although this representation is low, there are data from the United States Geological Survey (USGS) published in 2021 that place the country as the seventh in the world to have a greater amount of lithium in its territory. Today it is estimated that 95,000 tons could be exploited with current technologies and laws, in the total available reserves, counting what is currently inaccessible, is estimated at 470,000 tons.

Currently, only two companies produce lithium in Brazil, Companhia Brasileira de Lítio (CBL) and AMG Brasil, and there are a number of companies with projects in progress. Among them is Sigma Lithium, which should start selling ore by the end of 2022 and has invested R$ 2.3 billion in its ventures in the country.

The Jequitinhonha Valley, in Minas Gerais, concentrates most of the known reserves in Brazil, and the extraction of this ore is carried out in small and medium sized quarries. It is important to note that, increasingly, there is an effort by the Ministry of Mines and Energy to map other regions with potential for lithium production and exploration.

New studies for lithium in Brazil

The SGB-CPRM did a first survey in the Jequitinhonha Valley, northeastern Minas Gerais, where the state’s main lithium mining companies are located, the second phase of the project is being completed and is studying occurrences in the states of Rio Grande do Norte and Paraíba, and a third phase should be started to verify occurrences in the state of Ceará.

The purpose of these campaigns is to understand more about the Borborema Pegmatite Province, located between the states of Rio Grande do Norte and Paraíba, and to learn more about the areas already mined, in addition to discovering new deposits.

It is worth mentioning that the time between discovering the lithium in a place and starting production can take up to ten years, because there are some challenges, among them, adding value to the ore that Brazil has not yet mastered, and this is one of the areas where investment will be made.

It grabbed attention from several industries, especially the automotive industry, which is interested in mining lithium because it is crucial to use it in electric vehicles, since, lithium is required to manufacture a battery for this type of vehicles.

Lithium and clean energy

Currently 70% of the world’s lithium is already used for the production of batteries, and a leap in the Brazilian production is expected by 2025, as this demand are increasing, and even more electric vehicles are expected to be running in the country. Tesla, a world leading company in this industry, revealed that almost half of the vehicles it produced in the first half of this year were equipped with iron-lithium phosphate batteries.

Source: https://carroeletrico.com.br/blog/bateria-litio/

In addition to batteries for electric vehicles, it is also used for solar energy, wind power, and nuclear energy reactors. The U.S. Department of Energy considers lithium as one of the 16 key strategic raw materials for energy transition.

Decree allowing the trade of Lithium in Brazil

On July 06, 2022, the Decree no. 11.120 was published in the Brazilian Official Gazette (DOU), promoting the opening and implementation of the Brazilian lithium market. This decree allows foreign trade operations of lithium minerals and ores and their derivatives and has the objective of positioning Brazil as one of the main countries for lithium mining.

Source: Metais BR (https://www.metaisbr.com/wp-content/uploads/Produto-Litium.jpg)

Due to this flexibility, they expect more than 7,000 direct jobs in lithium mining to be created, reaching a total of 84,000 direct and indirect jobs in its production chain. Therefore, lithium will be increasingly strategic not only for the country, and throughout the world in years to come.

Core Case has developed plastic products and solutions for shipping and packing diamond drill core samples. They are produced in 100% recycled and recyclable plastic, with an ergonomic shape, light and easy to transport, and also more durable.

If you or your company work in this industry, be like the largest mining and drilling companies, use Core Case products and ensure the quality of your samples.

References:

https://forbes.com.br/forbes-money/2022/07/brasil-pode-se-tornar-uma-potencia-na-producao-de-litio-diz-sigma/

https://www.tecmundo.com.br/ciencia/231948-brasil-precisa-ciencia-explorar-litio-agredir-ambiente.htm

https://www.in.gov.br/en/web/dou/-/decreto-n-11.120-de-5-de-julho-de-2022-413346932

Lithium: understand why this element is increasingly relevant in the mining industry Read More »