What is ore dilution in mining?

Ore dilution in mining refers to the mixing of ore with waste material during the extraction process. This occurs when the extracted material contains not only valuable minerals but also non-valuable rock or other impurities that dilute the overall quality of the ore. Dilution can occur for various reasons, such as the methods used during mining, the geological characteristics of the deposit, or inefficiencies in the extraction process.

When ore is diluted with waste, it results in a lower grade of material being processed, which can significantly impact the economics of a mining operation. It can lead to increased processing costs and reduced recovery of valuable minerals. Understanding and managing dilution is critical for mining engineers to maximize the value of the extracted ore and improve the overall profitability of mining projects. Addressing the factors that contribute to dilution is essential for optimizing mining operations and ensuring that the ore processed is of the highest quality possible.