116 outcomes support Nexa Resources' vision toward an Integrated Mining Enterprise (IME), positioning information governance as an enabling capability for safe, efficient, and sustainable underground mining operations. 2. SITE AND OPERATIONAL CONTEXT (ARIPUANÃ UG MINE) The Aripuanã underground mine, operated by Nexa Resources, is located in the state of Mato Grosso, Brazil, and represents one of the most complex polymetallic mining operations in South America (Figure 1). The mine specializes in the extraction of copper, zinc, and lead, with production volumes that position it as a critical asset within Nexa’s portfolio. The operation is characterized by its underground nature, involving advanced extraction methods such as cut-and-fill stoping and longhole open stoping, which demand precise coordination across multiple technical disciplines to ensure safety, efficiency, and resource recovery. Figure 1 – Aripuanã underground mine location. Geologically, Aripuanã presents significant challenges due to its polymetallic deposit, which comprises multiple mineralized bodies with variable grades and complex structural controls (Figure 2). The orebody exhibits high variability in mineralogy and geotechnical conditions, including zones of increased fracturing and potential for ground instability, which necessitate continuous geomechanical assessments and adaptive planning strategies. These geological complexities are compounded by the need to manage dilution and losses during extraction, as well as to optimize the sequencing of mining blocks to maximize economic recovery while minimizing operational risks.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTM0Mzk2