Influence of the time factor on the availability of deposits of nonferrous metals

This study presents a probabilistic approach to the assessment of mineral deposits availability. This approach takes into account the joint influence of decision making involving deposits in development and the difficulty in formalizing socio-economic factors. Using this approach, we designed a model for estimating the availability of deposits with regard to the influence of the length of time elapsed prior to beginning development; values for copper deposits in Russia, the USA and Canada were calculated. The characteristics of mineral resources are determined by an experimental method for these countries. These characteristics are defined by periods when the time factor has a positive influence on deposit availability.