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Artificial Intelligence &

Innovation in the Service of Science and Development

INTRODUCTION

  • Morocco is one of the leading African countries in terms of mineral resources.”
  • In 2023, Morocco’s mining sector contributed approximately 6% to the national GDP (Sources: Trading Economics, Austrade.gov.au, Walaw).
  • In the first quarter of 2024, the sector recorded an exceptional growth of 19.1% (Source: Walaw).

IMPORTANCE AND USE OF METALS

CU

Wiring – electrical
Pipework

CO

Batteries lithium-ion
High-temperature resistant alloys

Ag

Electronic components
Jewelry

Pb

Lead-acid batteries
Radiation protection

AU

Precision electronics
Store of value

Zn

Galvanization.
Manufacturing of alloys

Shaping Earth, Crafting Futures, The Essence of Our Mining Identity

Geological framework of Morocco

  • Complex geological architecture, the result of a long geodynamic history.
  • Several orogenic, sedimentary, and volcanic events
  • This diversity is reflected in the presence of several geological and metallogenic provinces.

Important Mineral Resources: Phosphates

World’s leading exporter
Reserves: Over 50 billion tonnes
Main areas: Khouribga, Benguerir, Boukraâ.

Important Mining Sites of Morocco

  • A varied geological structure rich in mineral substances.
  • A mining activity developed throughout the Kingdom with beneficial impacts on regional development
  • Holding 72% of global phosphate reserves.

Regional Geological Context

The geological map of the Bou Azzer dome with the location of the mining study sectors (Leblanc, 1981, in D’Lemos et al., 2006).

MINING EXPLORATION

Mining exploration consists of identifying areas containing exploitable mineral resources.

Geophysical and geochemical methods

Target validation methods

PRELIMINARY EXPLORATION (RECONNAISSANCE)

Objective : Identify areas favorable to mineralization.
Methods :
  • Literature review (geological maps, satellite images, historical data)
  • Remote sensing (e.g., Landsat, Sentinel imagery)
  • Field prospecting (visual reconnaissance, surface sample collection)
Expected result: Delineation of potential target areas for further investigation.

DETAILED EXPLORATION

Objective : Detect anomalies indicating the presence of a deposit

Methods :

  • Detailed geological mapping: observation of structures, faults, veins.
  • Geochemistry: sampling and analysis of soils, sediments, or rocks.
  • Geochemistry: sampling and analysis of soils, sediments, or rocks.

Expected result: Selection of precise targets for drilling

ADVANCED EXPLORATION (VALIDATION)

Objective : Detect anomalies indicating the presence of a deposit

Methods :

  • Trenching, test pits: surface validation.
  • Drillings (core or reverse circulation): access to deep zones.
  • Core analysis: metal content, lithology, structures.

Expected result: Deposit modeling and resource estimation.

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The Integration of AI in the Mining Sector

Benefits of AI in the Mining Industry

  • Optimization of resources and cost reduction
  • Rapid analysis of geological data to explore new deposits
  • Reduction of environmental impact through optimization of operations
  • Enhanced safety thanks to risk detection and automation
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Examples of AI Applications

Innovative uses of artificial intelligence enhancing efficiency, safety, and sustainability in the mining industry.

Big Data Processing

Big Data Processing enables the analysis of vast geological datasets to identify mineral exploration targets more accurately and efficiently.

Big Data Processing enables the analysis of vast geological datasets to identify mineral exploration targets more accurately and efficiently.

Autonomous vehicles for material transport

Autonomous vehicles streamline material hauling in mines, improving safety and operational efficiency.

Autonomous vehicles streamline material hauling in mines, improving safety and operational efficiency.

Smart drilling:

Smart drilling systems optimize performance and reduce costs by adapting drilling parameters in real time based on subsurface conditions.

Full Support​

Smart drilling systems optimize performance and reduce costs by adapting drilling parameters in real time based on subsurface conditions.

Environmental monitoring

AI-powered sensors enable real-time environmental monitoring, helping to detect pollution, manage emissions, and ensure regulatory compliance in mining operations.

Full Support​

AI-powered sensors enable real-time environmental monitoring, helping to detect pollution, manage emissions, and ensure regulatory compliance in mining operations.