In this episode, Julian Aldridge (Managing Consultant, EMEAA) joins Laurie Hassell (Senior Consultant, UK) to discuss the complexities of nickel laterite deposits - from geology to geometallurgy and the processing challenges posed by magnesium and free silica.

With more than 20 years’ experience in resource geology, Julian brings practical insight into how geological variability affects processing decisions, cost, and mine planning.

Key Points & Timestamps: 00:34 – What is a nickel laterite deposit? 01:03 – The role of mafic and ultramafic rocks 01:30 – Laterite vs saprolite horizons 02:10 – Why geometallurgy is critical for processing 03:07 – The impact of magnesium and free silica 04:38 – HPAL vs pyrometallurgical processing routes 05:35 – How free silica dilutes grade and increases OPEX 06:30 – The importance of early-stage planning and blending

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