Project: Ore Bioleaching Site Allocation for Sungun Copper Mine
Client: National Iranian Copper Industries Company
Background: The Sungun Copper Mine in north-west Iran planned to extract copper cathode from its oxide ore reserves via a bioleaching process. Previous studies had confirmed both the technical and financial feasibility of the project. MEWE was appointed to conduct the site allocation study.
Actions: Extensive site investigations were carried out, including multiple field visits. The region’s cold climate, long winters, and steep terrain posed significant constraints. MEWE used GIS-based topographical, hydrological, infrastructural, and land-use mapping to assess site alternatives.
Results: A GIS database covering a 10 × 13 km area was developed. Ultimately, a 100-hectare site was selected—sufficient for heap leaching 60 million tons of low-grade sulfide and oxide ore over the 15-year project life. The plant is designed to produce 5,000 tons of copper cathode annually.
