Yes the difference normally is that sulphide ore is harder and normally of lower grade and generally needs more complicated processes to liberate the metal. When you are dealing with millions of tonnes in an open pit scenario this can lead to added costs. If for any reason the ore is more problematic than anticipated it could easily change the economics of the mine forever. You are much safer mining these ores underground as you can just mine the high value components, you have much better control over dilution (ie waste entering the ore stream) and you only need to grind a small fratction of the rock. If the rock is hard this is a major advantage.
Those oxide sources of ore that you are exploring for inside and outside of the existing mine will be critical to sustain higher grades and hence higher profits. Esh
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