This module will equip students with the theory and knowledge to understand the nature, origin and factors controlling primary
solid/mineral raw materials in order to understand the physical and chemical characteristics that influence and control the behaviour in terms of recovery of value and utilisation. After completing this module, students will be able to:
Classify the variety of mineral resource commodities of primary/secondary origin and discuss the relevance to society.
Illustrate the spatial and temporal distribution of mineral resources in the Earth crust by means of specific examples (Precious
metals, base metals, ferrous metals, non-metallics, secondaries).
Compare evolutionary concepts about the origin of mineral deposits by means of specific examples (Precious metals, base
metals, ferrous metals, non-metallics, secondaries).
Classify different mineral deposit styles based on geological features.
Relate different processes that give rise to different ore deposit styles to their genetic classification based on the observed
geological features.
Define rock stress and strength and how rocks respond to different styles of deformation.
Reconstruct the structural evolution of multiscale rock bodies on the basis of documents such as stress-strain diagrams, seismic
sections and outcrop data.
Appraise the significant processes that lead to formation of an ore deposit during structural deformation.
Work effectively in a team to define, plan and execute a project assignment and to report the outcomes by means of oral
presentation and written report.
