3D modelling and resource estimation of Kanlıdede (Manisa) nickel deposit

Kanlıdede Nickel mineralization is located in the Gördes- Akhisar district of Manisa province. It is part of an accretionary complex formed during the Paleogene overlap, within an ophiolite mixture mixed with Upper Cretaceous sedimentary stacks. Laterites are formed through the decomposition of ultramafics. Numerical data from exploration work have been reported as mineral resources. Economic and operational assessments of the mineralization are based on the calculation of ore solid models and grade values. The reliability of the data and the usefulness of the block model were evaluated according to international quality assurance procedures. Geological interpretation and solid modeling were based on raw data from exploration and drilling activities. The database underwent geostatistical analysis, and the optimal dataset was created by compositing drilling data. The analysis showed low coefficient of variation in the data. Continuity analysis was applied, determining the directional dependence of the ore. Blocks were created using neighborhood analysis, and parameters for grade estimation were detailed. Grade estimation was performed for block models created with variable parameters. Comparison of composite data and block grades showed the estimate to be useful with a difference of 1.02%. A preliminary conceptual economic assessment was conducted, determining the in-situ economic value of the mineral resource under optimistic, pessimistic, and average scenarios. All processes, from data acquisition methods to the accuracy, usability, estimation methods, economics, and applicability of the data, have been detailed within the scope of this study.