This textbook provides a range of tools for optimization in the mineral industry, including examples with mathematical programming. Topics covered include a survey of the application of optimisation technologies; a review of optimisation algorithms with math programming, math modelling and an introduction to AMPL (a widely used math modelling language), applications of linear programming to business improvement studies, surface mining applications, underground mining applications and options analysis. The math programming and AMPL is supported by the www.ampl.coma and by the author's site, www.minesmith.com.au.
This volume is intended for course use and was developed for 3rd and 4th year university education in mine planning and design or mine optimisation. Engineers, planners and policy makers in the minerals industry may find it beneficial for their professional activities as well.