665 MAXIMIZING VALUE IN COPPER DEPOSITS BY APPLYING SORTING TECHNOLOGY *J.C Quispe1 1Digital Innovation & Studies Superintendent, Antamina Mining Company, Av. El Derby 055, Tower 1, Lima, Peru (*Presenting Author: jquispel@antamina.com) ABSTRACT The growing demand for minerals, together with declining ore grades in traditional deposits, has driven the search for innovative technologies that optimize efficiency in the extraction and processing of mineral resources. In this context, ore sorting technology has proven to be a key tool for improving the profitability and sustainability of mining operations. This process enables the early classification of minerals using advanced sensors that detect differences in physical or chemical properties, such as density, color, radioactivity, or metal content, allowing the separation of ore from waste prior to the grinding and concentration stages. The application of ore sorting significantly contributes to increasing mineral reserves by upgrading the feed grade delivered to the processing plant, thereby making previously marginal or uneconomic low-grade materials economically viable. Furthermore, it helps extend mine life by optimizing resource recovery and reducing the need for additional exploration. KEYWORDS Reserves, Ore Sorting Technology, Upgrade Ratio, Ore Sorting Recovery, Ore Sorting, Net Smelter Return, Ore Sorting Cut Off 1. INTRODUCTION Copper has become established as a strategic resource for global economic and technological development, particularly in the context of large-scale electrification and energy transition. Its physical and metallurgical properties, high electrical and thermal conductivity, durability, and recyclability make it an essential material for power grids, renewable energy systems, electric mobility, energy storage systems, advanced manufacturing, and industrial digitalization. These structural trends point to a profound transformation in global copper demand by 2050, with estimates indicating a cumulative increase exceeding 50–80%, driven by the expansion of clean technologies and the modernization of global electrical infrastructure. Various institutions, such as the International Energy Agency, S&P Global, and the European Commission, emphasize that the energy transition will increase copper use intensity across virtually all critical sectors. Under scenarios aligned with 2050 carbon neutrality targets, the electrification of transport, the large-scale integration of renewable energy, the growth of smart grids, and the need to reinforce electrical infrastructure, position copper as a fundamental input. As a result, metal demand shows a growing, sustained, and structural trend, reflecting the central role copper plays in the world’s technological and energy transformation. The projection of continuously expanding demand through 2050 highlights the importance of copper as an essential component of the global economy. Understanding this evolution is key to planning
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