Description: This project investigates the copper mineralogy and ore characteristics of the weathering transition zone at the Hillside Iron Oxide Copper Gold (IOCG) deposit on South Australia’s Yorke Peninsula. The research focuses on understanding how copper-bearing minerals form and evolve during weathering processes, including the occurrence of minerals such as atacamite. By characterising copper mineral species, determining the origin and evolution of the supergene zone, and assessing implications for ore processing and recovery, the project will provide valuable insights to support mining and metallurgical operations at Hillside. The research also examines atacamite samples from South Australia, Australia and South America to better understand the mineral’s characteristics and occurrence in arid weathering environments.
Benefits: This project will improve understanding of copper mineralogy and weathering processes in IOCG deposits, supporting more effective resource evaluation and geometallurgical decision-making. The outcomes will help optimise copper recovery from transition ores, enhance processing strategies and support early production planning at the Hillside deposit. The research will also provide new insights into atacamite, contributing to the sustainable supply of copper, a critical metal for the global energy transition.
