Plurigaussian conditional simulation (PGS) of the Budenovskoe uranium roll-front deposit, central Kazakhstan: 3D model of the host sedimentary sequence.

This article focuses on the application of Plurigaussian conditional simulation (PGS) and Sequential Gaussian conditional simulation (SGS) methods to develop a detailed 3D geostatistical model of the host sedimentary sequence at the Budenovskoe sandstone-hosted uranium roll-front deposit in central Kazakhstan. The PGS method was used to construct lithostratigraphic models that minimize subjectivity by integrating geostatistical and lithostratigraphic data, while SGS was applied to model rock permeability constrained by the PGS lithotypes. The integrated model enhances the characterization of fluid infiltration pathways critical for optimizing in-situ leach (ISL) uranium extraction and assessing project risks. Results demonstrate that the uranium rolls are predominantly hosted within permeable sandstones and conglomerates, bounded by less permeable clay, shale, and carbonate layers, with the model providing uncertainty quantification useful for practical mining block and leach cell design.