The Contribution of Morphology to the Quantitative Potential of Nickel Laterite Deposits on Ultramafic Rocks in the Southeast Arm Region of Sulawesi Island, Indonesia

Abstract

Laterite nickel deposits are formed by weathering and are influenced by morphological conditions, water circulation, and other factors. The Pomalaa area's morphology is characterized as a denudational hill unit, with five categories: Steep Hills, Landai Hills, Wavy Hills, and gently undulating plains. The Sorowako region is characterized by high denudation hills with steep inclines. Morphology influences variations in maximum thickness and nickel content under slope circumstances ranging from 7% to 15%. The characteristics of irregular weathering of ultramafic igneous rocks in laterite deposits and the distribution method significantly affect the value distribution on the map. The correlation between the Cut of Grade value and morphological factors influencing the identification of the ore zone is directly proportional. Morphology plays a crucial role in laterite nickel development by facilitating early identification of prospective sites, minimizing production costs in the exploration sector, and delineating areas with significant nickel potential based on morphological characteristics.