The MiniBond test: A robust and cost-effective alternative for ore hardness characterisation and geometallurgical profiling
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Efficient ore hardness characterisation is pivotal for effective geometallurgical modelling and mine planning. However, conventional Bond Work Index (BWi) tests, despite their established accuracy, are resource-intensive in terms of cost, time, and sample requirements. This article introduces the MiniBond test, a novel reduced-scale grindability assay designed to provide reliable BWi estimates using significantly lower sample volumes (approximately 600 grams). Extensive calibration across diverse mineralogical domains (over 80 ore samples) validated a high correlation (R 2 = 0 . 98 ) with the traditional Bond test and internal calibration errors consistently below 3%. Double-blind homologation and validation studies conducted collaboratively between Aminpro and Anglo American confirmed the test’s operational reproducibility across laboratories, achieving less than 5% variation. By significantly reducing the cost per test (approximately 80%) and enabling high-throughput testing, the MiniBond test enhances the density of geometallurgical datasets, improving geostatistical interpolation reliability. This paper presents a detailed description of the MiniBond test procedure, the extensive calibration and homologation campaigns, and discusses the practical implications and advantages of implementing this method for large-scale resource evaluation. • The MiniBond test replicates Bond mill grinding conditions using only 600 g of sample. • Calibration models achieve <3% error versus the standard Bond Work Index. • AATS homologation and blind validation confirmed reproducibility across labs. • Bootstrap learning curves establish minimum calibration dataset size for stable predictions.
Source: Minerals Engineering
Language: English
Subfield: Mechanical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $4,220
OpenAlex ID: W4413811675