the system under real operating conditions, refining calibration models, and evaluating long-term performance. During this phase, real-time data is directly integrated into the operation, enabling continuous monitoring of grades, generation of deviation alerts, and effective support for operational decision-making. Overall, this validation and monitoring process consolidates the use of the LIBS system as a reliable tool for improving ore traceability and strengthening mine–plant reconciliation in a dynamic operational environment. 4. RESULTS 4.1 Improvement in Grade Visibility Although the system has not yet been implemented on the Overland conveyor at Chuquicamata Underground, available evidence from previous applications within the Division — particularly in the Geology Superintendence — has demonstrated the potential of this technology to capture high-frequency grade variability in drilling data. These experiences have generated significant interest in its application at an operational scale, due to its ability to improve data representativeness compared to traditional sampling methods. In this context, the incorporation of online measurement is expected to enable the transition from a discrete sampling approach to continuous monitoring, significantly improving the visibility and traceability of the grades delivered to the plant. 4.2 Projected Reduction of the Mine–Plant Gap To quantify the magnitude of the gap between mine-reported grades and those reconciled in the metallurgical balance, operational data from 2025 were analyzed (Figure 1). The results show systematic differences between both data sources, with deviations reaching up to 0.05% CuT in certain periods. In general, a trend is observed in which plant-reconciled grades tend to underestimate mine-reported grades in several months, while in other cases negative discrepancies are observed, reflecting significant temporal variability. Figure 1 – Comparison between mine-reported copper grades and those reconciled in the metallurgical balance during 2025.
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