Overview
Potential exists for lateritic nickel – cobalt deposits in Madagascar. The Ambatovy nickel/cobalt project is the largest and most advanced mineral project in the country. It is located about 80 km east of the capital city of Antananarivo. Dynatec Corporation had acquired the project from Phelps Dodge Mining Company, and along with Sumitomo Corporation and a third shareholder from South Korea, has carried out a feasibility study published in 2005. The study revealed that proven and probable reserves at Ambatovy and Analamay add up to 125 Mt at 1.04% Ni and 0.099% Co, and the study estimated that the deposit has the potential to deliver 60,000 t/y of LME Class 1 nickel, 5,600 t/y of cobalt and 186,000 t/y of ammonium sulphate over a 27-year mine life. An open-pit mining operation is planned and construction is due to commence at the beginning of 2007.
Facilities (5)
Ambatovy Mine, Andriamana, Andriamena, Bemanevika, Toalagnaro
Participating Organisations
Phelps Dodge Mining Company
Phelps Dodge have identified a major lateritic nickel resource west of Antananarivo, Madagascar.