Statistical, Geostatistical and Spatial Analysis of Technology-Critical Elements in Trepça Mine
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17794/rgn.2026.4.10Keywords:
Geostatistics, Spatial, Distribution, TCE, TrepçaAbstract
This study investigates the presence, concentration, and spatial distribution of Technology-Critical Elements (TCEs) in the Trepça Mine, focusing on ore body horizons VIII-XI. During research in the relevant archives (Trepça, ICMM, GSK), it was noted that there is no statistical, geostatistical or spatial studies have been conducted in the Trepça mine for Technology-Critical Elements. Mineralizations in Trepça are mainly occur as vein structures known as ore bodies. In this study, all existing ore bodies from horizons VIII-XI, were sampled. Representative samples were collected from each active ore body and analysed using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) to quantify elements including Bi, Co, Ge, V, W, Li, Ga, In, Te, and Nb. Statistical and geostatistical analyses were performed using Microsoft Excel, R Studio, and Golden Software Surfer to assess variability, correlations, and spatial trends. The highest concentrations were observed for Bi (avg. 98.81 ppm; max. 610.4 ppm), W (avg. 28.68 ppm), and Co (avg. 28.47 ppm), with significant variability across horizons. Correlation analysis revealed strong positive relationships between several elements, such as W–V (r = 0.70), W–Ge (r = 0.65), and Bi–W (r = 0.60), suggesting possible common geological origins. These findings highlight the potential for the sustainable recovery of strategic elements from Trepça’s polymetallic ore zones and underscore the mine’s relevance not only for traditional metals but also for critical raw materials essential to low-carbon and high-tech industries.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Berat Sinani, Blazo Boev, Arianit Reka, Bahri Sinani, Ivan Boev
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