Geostatistics And Sequential Exploration

Geological study of the Prony Nilaterite (New Caledonia) began in 1969 and included drilling, geological mapping and laboratory studies. The deposit is the product of weathering of basic rocks. From top to bottom, the following zones can be distinguished: a compact ferruginous cover; ore associated with yellow laterite, containing 1.0-1.5% Ni and low in impurities (SiO2, Mg); an intermediate silicated ore containing 1.3-2.0% Ni and higher percentages of impurities; garnierite ore much richer in nickel (2-4%) but high in SiO, and Mg contents (Mg up to 20%) ; and parent rock, largely peridotites. Distinction between types of ore is essential because the high grade ore (silicated and granierites) is penalized for its high Mg contents that demand additional acid treatment. All studies made distinguish two types of ore, laterite and silicated.