Cristian Dragusanu, Ph.D., P.Geo

Director Technical Services NAM – Geometallurgy, SGS Canada Inc.

Talk Abstract

Geometallurgy has traditionally focused on how geological variability influences processing performance, work that remains essential. As orebodies become more complex and the economic consequences of geological uncertainty grow, geometallurgy is increasingly becoming a tool for value‑based decision‑making.

This presentation examines how geometallurgy is evolving from a technical practice for processing characterization into a framework that informs geological, operational, and financial decisions under uncertainty. Using practical mining scenarios and recent analytical approaches, it shows how geometallurgical frameworks identify the variables that most affect project value. Furthermore, it captures where additional information changes economic outcomes and reveals how uncertainty impacts planning choices across the mining lifecycle.

The most valuable contribution of geometallurgy may no longer be reducing uncertainty, but determining which uncertainties matter economically, which are worth reducing, and how they can prioritize the decisions available to us.

Speaker Bio

Cristian (Cris) Dragusanu is an experienced geologist and geochemist with a strong background in metallurgical applications, geometallurgy, and mineral resource evaluation. His expertise combines geological interpretation, geochemical analysis, and statistical methodologies to support a deeper understanding of mineral deposits and their processing characteristics.

Recognized for his multidisciplinary approach, Cris brings valuable technical insight to complex mineral projects, helping bridge the gap between geological understanding and metallurgical performance. His collaborative approach and analytical expertise support informed decision-making throughout the mineral project lifecycle.