2.1 General Objective The objective of this work is to evaluate the implementation of an online grade analyzer based on LIBS (Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy) technology on the Overland conveyor, as a tool to improve mine–plant grade reconciliation. 2.2 Specific Objectives The specific objectives of this study are to quantify the reduction of the gap between minereported grades and those reconciled in the plant, evaluate the impact of online measurement on real-time operational decision-making, estimate the economic benefit associated with improved grade accuracy, and assess the feasibility of operational integration and scalability of the technology within an industrial environment. 2.3 Scope The scope of this work includes the online measurement of key elements such as Cu, Mo, Fe, and As, together with the integration of the LIBS-based system into existing operational and metallurgical control platforms. This enables its incorporation into real-time monitoring systems and supports its use as an operational variable. In addition, the system performance is evaluated under real industrial operating conditions, with the objective of providing a more accurate and continuous representation of the grades delivered to the concentrator plant in the short term. This approach aims to support process optimization, improve metallurgical stability, and contribute to reducing mine–plant reconciliation gaps through the use of timely and reliable data. 3. METHODOLOGY The methodology considers the implementation of an online measurement system based on LIBS (Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy) technology on the Overland conveyor of Chuquicamata Underground, at a strategic point prior to the entry of the ore into the plant feeding system. This location allows for a representative capture of the variability of the material delivered to the process, before it is blended within the storage and distribution system. The system enables continuous measurement of the elemental composition of the ore (Cu, Mo, Fe, and As), transforming the traditional discrete sampling approach into a continuous, realtime monitoring scheme. 3.1 Measurement Principles LIBS technology is based on the generation of a plasma induced by a high-energy laser pulse on the surface of the moving material. This plasma emits characteristic radiation for each element present, which is captured and analyzed using a spectrometer. From this spectral signal, it is possible to estimate elemental concentrations of the ore in real time, with high sampling frequency, allowing continuous characterization of material variability.
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