Geology and reserves

The Kiruna ore body was formed at around 1,600Ma following intense volcanic activity with the precipitation of iron-rich solutions on to a syenite porphyry footwall. The ore bed was then covered by further volcanic deposits (quartz porphyry) and sedimentary rocks before being tilted its current dip of 50 to 60. The ore contains a very pure magnetite-apatite mix, containing more than 60% iron and an average of 0.9% phosphorus. Black ore contains less apatite than grey ore.

The original reserve at Kiruna was some 1,800Mt. As of the end of 2004, LKAB estimated that the current proven reserve at the mine is 657Mt grading 48.3% iron, with probable reserves of 140Mt at 46.5% iron. Measured, indicated and inferred resources add a further 500Mt-plus to the inventory, with exploration continuing to identify further resources at depth.

ВАРІАНТ III