Integrating morphological texture classification with MCDA for early-stage trade-off analysis in open-pit mine design

At the early stage of mine feasibility assessment, decision-making is constrained by high geological uncertainty despite the need for rapid evaluation of economic viability. This study proposes a morphological texture-based classification framework as a screening tool for early-stage mine design. Distinct textural variants within a single ore deposit are classified using field and laboratory data and evaluated across slope stability, excavation energy, and ore grade. A multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) approach is applied to quantify trade-offs among these factors. Results show that weakly banded ores, such as deposition type 1 (DT), are easier to excavate but less stable, whereas competent units, such as DT6 and DT4, allow steeper, more stable slopes. The intermediate unit, as in DT5, exhibits higher grades but moderate constraints. MCDA ranking identifies DT6 as the most balanced unit. The framework demonstrates that morphological texture can effectively link geology with engineering and economic considerations, providing early-stage guidance for slope design and prioritisation under uncertainty.