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Journal Description
Mining
Mining
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on mining science and engineering published quarterly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, GeoRef, AGRIS, and other databases.
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 19.6 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 4.5 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first half of 2024).
- Journal Rank: CiteScore - Q2 (Geology)
- Recognition of Reviewers: APC discount vouchers, optional signed peer review, and reviewer names published annually in the journal.
- Mining is a companion journal of Minerals.
Latest Articles
Below Water Table Mining, Pit Lake Formation, and Management Considerations for the Pilbara Mining Region of Western Australia
Mining 2024, 4(4), 863-888; https://doi.org/10.3390/mining4040048 - 17 Oct 2024
Abstract
Located in northern Western Australia, the Pilbara is the highest productivity region for iron ore and other metal mining in Australia. As elsewhere, mine closure guidelines typically require post-closure landforms to be safe, stable, non-polluting and sustainable here in the long-term. I reviewed
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Located in northern Western Australia, the Pilbara is the highest productivity region for iron ore and other metal mining in Australia. As elsewhere, mine closure guidelines typically require post-closure landforms to be safe, stable, non-polluting and sustainable here in the long-term. I reviewed the primary literature, including international, national and state government guidelines and regional case studies for mine closure and related socio-environmental topics, to understand the key risks and management strategies needed to achieve these broad expectations for below water table (BWT) mining. Many BWT open cut mining projects will result in pit lakes in this region, many of which will be very large and will degrade in water quality with increasing salinisation over time. As an arid region, risks are dominated by alterations to hydrology and hydrogeology of largely unmodified natural waterways and freshwater aquifers. Although remote, social risks may also present, especially in terms of impacts to groundwater values. This remoteness also decreases the potential for realising practicable development of post-mining land uses for pit lakes. Explicitly considered risk-based decisions should determine closure outcomes for BWT voids, and when pit backfill to prevent pit lake formation will be warranted. However, maintaining an open pit lake or backfilling a void should also be considered against the balance of potential risks and opportunities.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Post-Mining Management)
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Open AccessArticle
Physical and Numerical Modeling of a Flow Control Layer Made with a Sludge and Slag Mixture for Use in Waste Rock Pile Reclamation
by
Nelcy Carolina Otalora Vasquez, Abdelkabir Maqsoud and Tikou Belem
Mining 2024, 4(4), 841-862; https://doi.org/10.3390/mining4040047 - 16 Oct 2024
Abstract
The reclamation of waste rock piles (WRPs) is complex, requiring adaptation of existing mine site reclamation techniques. An alternative approach has been developed for waste rock piles reclamation which involves installing finer materials on the top of waste rock piles. These finer layers
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The reclamation of waste rock piles (WRPs) is complex, requiring adaptation of existing mine site reclamation techniques. An alternative approach has been developed for waste rock piles reclamation which involves installing finer materials on the top of waste rock piles. These finer layers (flow control layers—FCLs) redirect water flowing inside the pile toward its slope and limits water infiltration into reactive waste rocks. In the context of sustainable development, a mixture material made with sludge and slag can be used as an FCL in the reclamation of a waste rock pile. To assess the effectiveness of this material, a physical model was used and instrumented with sensors for monitoring volumetric water content and suction and equipped with the following components: (1) a rain simulator; and (2) drains that allow the recovery of water that infiltrates through the system. The physical model was tested with various cover layer thicknesses, inclinations, and precipitation rates. Investigation results showed that the water infiltration across the system was very low, leading to the conclusion that the sludge and slug mixture performed well as a flow control layer in the reclamation of waste rock piles.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Mining Innovation)
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FLAC3D Simulation of Caving Mechanism and Strata Fracture Response in Underground Mining
by
Mahdi Saadat, Mattin Khishvand and Andrew Seccombe
Mining 2024, 4(4), 818-840; https://doi.org/10.3390/mining4040046 - 16 Oct 2024
Abstract
This paper presents an innovative numerical approach to simulating the progressive caving of rock mass in the overburden and floor during longwall mining. A modified caving algorithm is incorporated into FLAC3D 9.0, augmented with the IMASS constitutive model, to accurately replicate the fracturing
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This paper presents an innovative numerical approach to simulating the progressive caving of rock mass in the overburden and floor during longwall mining. A modified caving algorithm is incorporated into FLAC3D 9.0, augmented with the IMASS constitutive model, to accurately replicate the fracturing response of various strata. This study aimed to analyze the longwall caving performance, overburden fracturing response, and shield support characteristics to optimize the mining process and enhance safety. The numerical analysis revealed a progressive stress release at the longwall face, attributed to damage in the form of spalling, which was accompanied by a high level of displacement. The fracture process zone above the shield canopy was not significant, indicating the effective performance of the shield in controlling the roof. However, the floor heave highlights the need for the implementation of effective risk and safety measures. Goaf is predicted to form with a longwall advance rate of 25.0–30.0 m, resulting from progressive macroscopic fracturing caused by the development of cracks initiated by bedding plane and rock mass failures. Above the caved zone, an active fracture zone is observed to evolve due to the continuous longwall mining and caving process.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Empirical, Analytical, and Numerical Approaches in Mining Geomechanics, 2nd Edition)
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Open AccessArticle
Prospect for Fine and Coarse Coal Waste Deployment for a Constructed Technosol and Eragrostis Tef Growth
by
Eduardo Kercher de Oliveira, Arthur Cesa Venturella, Jéssica Weiler and Ivo André Homrich Schneider
Mining 2024, 4(4), 806-817; https://doi.org/10.3390/mining4040045 - 13 Oct 2024
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The aim of this study was to evaluate soil properties and Eragrostis tef (teff) growth on Technosols produced from coarse and fine coal wastes from Moatize Mine, Mozambique. The experiment was performed in triplicate in 30 L containers filled with different substrate conditions,
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The aim of this study was to evaluate soil properties and Eragrostis tef (teff) growth on Technosols produced from coarse and fine coal wastes from Moatize Mine, Mozambique. The experiment was performed in triplicate in 30 L containers filled with different substrate conditions, composed of fine coal waste, coarse coal waste, agricultural soil, and sewage sludge as an organic matter source. The soil analyses included bulk density, available water capacity, permeability, and fertility. Plant growth was monitored for biomass production and plant tissue composition. All the substrates presented a good available water capacity and a proper drainage condition. Regarding soil fertility, there were shortages of potassium and boron in the substrates composed exclusively of coal wastes, which was reflected in the composition of the plant tissue. Even so, plant growth was statistically equivalent to the control in all conditions, except for the substrate produced exclusively with fine coal waste and sewage sludge, which presented a better performance. Technosols are an alternative for reducing the final mine waste volume, and Eragrostis tef is used as a means for land use after the mining process, with social gains, and as a tool in an ecological process for restoring coal mining sites.
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Enhancing Load-Bearing Capacity of Weak Soils Using Geosynthetics: A Finite Element Analysis
by
Hassan Tavassoli Rad, Farhad Mahmoudi Jalali, Mohammad Gheibi, Reza Yeganeh Khaksar, Andres Annuk and Reza Moezzi
Mining 2024, 4(4), 777-805; https://doi.org/10.3390/mining4040044 - 11 Oct 2024
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In the context of mining applications and the increasing demand for high load-bearing soils, utilizing weak soils poses a significant challenge. This study investigates the effectiveness of geosynthetics in stabilizing weak soils through numerical modeling using Abaqus software (R2016X)and validation via laboratory model
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In the context of mining applications and the increasing demand for high load-bearing soils, utilizing weak soils poses a significant challenge. This study investigates the effectiveness of geosynthetics in stabilizing weak soils through numerical modeling using Abaqus software (R2016X)and validation via laboratory model testing. We examined the impact of various geosynthetic lengths and embedment depths across three soil types: clay loam (ML), sand (SM), and well-graded sand (SW). Our results reveal that ML and SM soil types exhibit local shear failure, while SW soil types demonstrate general shear failure. Notably, the bearing capacity of soils increases with coarser particle sizes due to higher Meyerhof parameters, leading to soil failure at lower settlements. Optimal geotextile embedment depths were determined as H/B = 0.125 for ML soil, H/B = 0.250 for SM soil, and H/B = 0.5 for SW soil. Additionally, the effect of geotextile length on bearing capacity is more pronounced in ML soil, suggesting greater effectiveness in fine-grained soils. The optimal geotextile lengths for installation are approximately 1.5 times the width for ML soil, 1.0 times for SM soil, and 1.0 times for SW soil. We also found that SW soil typically fails at lower settlements compared to ML and SM soils. Consequently, geotextile placement at shallower depths is recommended for SW soil, where the soil experiences higher tension and pressure. These findings contribute to enhance soil stabilization and load management in mining geotechnics.
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Open AccessArticle
Dissolution Kinetics of Carbonates in Low-Grade Microgranular Phosphate Ore Using Organic Acids as Leaching Agents
by
Yerkebulan Raiymbekov, Perizat Abdurazova and Ulzhalgas Nazarbek
Mining 2024, 4(4), 766-776; https://doi.org/10.3390/mining4040043 - 9 Oct 2024
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The present study investigates the process of selective leaching of low-grade phosphate ore of the Karatau basin using organic acids such as formic and citric acids. Chemical and instrumental analyses of the investigated phosphate ore were carried out, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning
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The present study investigates the process of selective leaching of low-grade phosphate ore of the Karatau basin using organic acids such as formic and citric acids. Chemical and instrumental analyses of the investigated phosphate ore were carried out, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Based on experimental data, reaction rate constants were calculated, and the obtained activation energies for each of the reagents were used. The reaction rate constants indicate that formic acid led to a more gradual increase in P2O5 concentration over time, while citric acid demonstrates a more significant increase in phosphorus concentration at all temperatures, especially at 70 °C. The activation energy for formic acid is 14.69 kJ/mol, indicating a diffusion-controlled reaction mechanism, whereas the activation energy for citric acid is higher, i.e., 35.78 kJ/mol, suggesting a more complex mechanism involving both diffusion and chemical processes. The present study highlights the importance of selecting appropriate reaction conditions to achieve maximum efficiency for the leaching of phosphate ore, depending on both temperature and reagent used.
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Open AccessArticle
An AI-Based Approach for Developing a Recommendation System for Underground Mining Methods Pre-Selection
by
Elsa Pansilvania Andre Manjate, Natsuo Okada, Yoko Ohtomo, Tsuyoshi Adachi, Bernardo Miguel Bene, Takahiko Arima and Youhei Kawamura
Mining 2024, 4(4), 747-765; https://doi.org/10.3390/mining4040042 - 2 Oct 2024
Abstract
Selecting the most appropriate mining method to recover mineral resources is a critical decision-making task in mining project development. This study introduces an artificial intelligence-based mining methods recommendation system (AI-MMRS) for the pre-selection of underground mining methods. The study integrates and evaluates the
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Selecting the most appropriate mining method to recover mineral resources is a critical decision-making task in mining project development. This study introduces an artificial intelligence-based mining methods recommendation system (AI-MMRS) for the pre-selection of underground mining methods. The study integrates and evaluates the capability of two approaches for mining methods selection (MMS): the memory-based collaborative filtering (CF) approach aided by the UBC-MMS system to predict the top-3 relevant mining methods and supervised machine learning (ML) classification algorithms to enhance the effectiveness and novelty of the AI-MMRS, addressing the limitations of the CF approach. The results reveal that the memory-based CF approach achieves an accuracy ranging from 81.8% to 87.9%. Among the classification algorithms, artificial neural network (ANN) and k-nearest neighbors (KNN) classifiers perform the best, with accuracy levels of 66.7% and 63.6%, respectively. These findings demonstrate the effectiveness and viability of both approaches in MMS, acknowledging their limitations and the need for continuous training and optimization. The proposed AI-MMRS for the pre-selection stage supplemented by the direct involvement of mining professionals in later stages of MMS, has the potential to significantly aid in the MMS decision-making, providing data-driven and experience-based recommendations following the ongoing evolution of mining practices.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Mining Innovation)
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Application of SAP to Improve the Handling Properties of Iron Ore Tailings of High Cohesiveness: Could a Reagent Help the Decommissioning Process of a Dam?
by
Hely Simões Gurgel and Ivo André Homrich Schneider
Mining 2024, 4(4), 733-746; https://doi.org/10.3390/mining4040041 - 2 Oct 2024
Abstract
This work aims to evaluate the use of a superabsorbent polymer (SAP) to provide improvements in the handling properties of iron ore tailings (IOT). The material studied came from the magnetic separation reprocessing of the material discarded at the Gelado Dam, located in
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This work aims to evaluate the use of a superabsorbent polymer (SAP) to provide improvements in the handling properties of iron ore tailings (IOT). The material studied came from the magnetic separation reprocessing of the material discarded at the Gelado Dam, located in Serra dos Carajás in the state of Pará, Brazil. While the concentrate presents reasonable handling conditions, the tailings, with 61.5% iron, 15% moisture, and 39% of the mass, have high cohesiveness and adhesiveness due to their fine nature and the climatic conditions of the Amazon rainforest. However, the tailings can still be considered a product as long as the handling and transportation logistics are feasible. Thus, studies with an SAP and IOT were carried out in a bench rotating drum to promote mixing between them, and the main variables studied were the SAP dosage and the required contact time. The improvement in the physical properties of the IOT were evaluated considering the Hausner ratio, Carr index, Jenike’s flow function index, Atterberg limits, and chute angle. The superabsorbent polymer promoted a significant improvement in the state of consistency of the material, and the best performance was obtained with a dosage of 1000 g t−1. As long as a suitable contact condition was promoted, a contact time of 1 min was enough to achieve the expected benefits. After dosing with the superabsorbent polymer, the material’s handling classification changed from ‘cohesive’ to ‘easy flow’, and the chute angle was reduced from 90° to levels below 60°. It was concluded that the application of the superabsorbent polymer has the potential to improve the fluidity of the material discarded in the magnetic concentration operation, allowing it to be handled throughout the production and transportation chain. The SAP appears to be an important additive for the full use of the material present in the dam (100% recovery), with both economic and socio-environmental benefits.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Envisioning the Future of Mining, 2nd Edition)
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Toxicity of Iron Mining Tailings and Potential for Revegetation Using Schinus terebinthifolia Raddi Based on the Emergence, Growth, and Anatomy of the Species
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Poliana Noemia da Silva, Carlos Henrique Goulart dos Reis, Vinícius Politi Duarte, Evaristo Mauro de Castro, Maxwell Pereira de Pádua and Fabricio José Pereira
Mining 2024, 4(3), 719-732; https://doi.org/10.3390/mining4030040 - 23 Sep 2024
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the emergence, early growth, and anatomy of Schinus terebinthifolia Raddi cultivated in iron mining tailings. The seeds were obtained from trees used in urban afforestation and cultivated on two substrates: sand and iron mining tailings. The chemical composition
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This study aimed to evaluate the emergence, early growth, and anatomy of Schinus terebinthifolia Raddi cultivated in iron mining tailings. The seeds were obtained from trees used in urban afforestation and cultivated on two substrates: sand and iron mining tailings. The chemical composition of the mining tailing was characterized. The experiment was conducted in a growth room for 60 days. The emergence rate, seedling survival, height, number of leaves, chlorophyll content, and leaf and root anatomy were evaluated. The analysis of the composition of the mining tailings indicated that macro- and micronutrients were present, as well as potentially toxic elements such as Al, Cd, Cr, and Pb. The mining tailings reduced the emergence rate, and 25% of the seedlings died in this substrate. In addition, the mining tailings promoted a significant reduction in all parameters investigated, including seedling height, number of leaves, chlorophyll content, total leaf thickness, abaxial and adaxial epidermis thickness, palisade parenchyma thickness, and the length and width of the seeds. Additionally, the chloroplasts, the metaxylem vessel diameter, and the phloem proportion were evaluated. Interestingly, the tailings promoted an increase in the secretory channel. In the roots, no significant changes were observed in the parameters analyzed. Thus, the seeds of S. terebinthifolia germinated in the iron mining tailings, and 75% of the seedlings survived, showing their potential for reforestation. Nonetheless, iron mining tailings exhibited toxicity to S. terebinthifolia seedlings, reducing their photosynthetic tissues and, consequently, their growth; this toxicity is likely related to potentially toxic elements present in tailings.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Sustainable Mining Engineering 2024)
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Insights on Prioritization Methods for Mining Exploration Areas: A Case Study of the Tiltil Mining District, Chile
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Claudio Sebastián Molina, Carlos Jorge Marquardt, José Joaquín Jara and Patricio Ignacio Faúndez
Mining 2024, 4(3), 687-718; https://doi.org/10.3390/mining4030039 - 18 Sep 2024
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This study proposes a simple and replicable methodology to prioritize mining exploration projects based on their geoscientific characteristics and contextual factors, which can be adapted to different mining contexts. Using the Tiltil Mining District in Central Chile as a case study, where over
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This study proposes a simple and replicable methodology to prioritize mining exploration projects based on their geoscientific characteristics and contextual factors, which can be adapted to different mining contexts. Using the Tiltil Mining District in Central Chile as a case study, where over 100 small and medium-sized Au and Cu prospects exist, this research outlines three key stages: (1) collection of relevant data; (2) selection of the most appropriate multi-criteria decision-making methods (MCDMs); and (3) the application, analysis, and comparison of these methods. This study identifies AHP and PROMETHEE II as the most suitable MCDM for the case study. The application of these methods consistently ranked El Huracán, San Aurelio, and La Despreciada as the top three exploration priorities. The AHP’s weight assignment highlights economic, geological, and social factors as the most critical variables in determining project viability.
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Open AccessArticle
Towards Mine 4.0: A Proposed Multi-Layered Architecture for Real-Time Surveillance and Anomaly Detection in an Open-Pit Phosphate Mine
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Laila El Hiouile, Ahmed Errami and Nawfel Azami
Mining 2024, 4(3), 672-686; https://doi.org/10.3390/mining4030038 - 17 Sep 2024
Abstract
Given the global importance and limited availability of phosphate, optimizing the use of this critical resource and minimizing its wastage are of paramount importance. In this context, this paper proposes an innovative architecture for the implementation of an intelligent video surveillance system specifically
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Given the global importance and limited availability of phosphate, optimizing the use of this critical resource and minimizing its wastage are of paramount importance. In this context, this paper proposes an innovative architecture for the implementation of an intelligent video surveillance system specifically designed for open-pit phosphate mines. The proposed architecture is designed to meet the overall functional requirements of a surveillance system in the challenging environment of open-pit mining, while aligning with the guidelines of the Mine 4.0 revolution. It incorporates advanced technologies that address the critical challenges of latency, data security, and transparency commonly encountered in traditional monitoring systems. By adopting a multi-layered approach that leverages edge, fog, and cloud computing, coupled with blockchain technology and expert collaboration, our architecture offers a comprehensive framework for efficient data processing at every stage, from initial data acquisition to real-time anomaly detection and decision-making.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Envisioning the Future of Mining, 2nd Edition)
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Modeling and Mitigating Gas Hazards during Potash Mine Closure
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Evgenii Kolesov, Mikhail Semin, Aleksey Starikov and Evgenii Grishin
Mining 2024, 4(3), 657-671; https://doi.org/10.3390/mining4030037 - 10 Sep 2024
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The planned closure of potash mines achieved through the injection of highly mineralized brines into the worked-out area is a complex process. A critical concern arises when brines obstruct the aerodynamic connections between the flooded mine’s airspace and the atmosphere, potentially leading to
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The planned closure of potash mines achieved through the injection of highly mineralized brines into the worked-out area is a complex process. A critical concern arises when brines obstruct the aerodynamic connections between the flooded mine’s airspace and the atmosphere, potentially leading to the formation of closed cavities where explosive gases can accumulate. To address this hazard, it is imperative to develop systems capable of extracting the gas–air mixture from the unflooded part of the worked-out area. Two distinct scenarios are examined: the first involves controlled flooding with saturated brines, while the second contemplates flooding resulting from a hypothetical breakthrough of supra-salt strata, leading to the ingress of groundwater into the worked-out area. A novel mathematical model is introduced to predict the evolution of gas–air mixture parameters in the unflooded part of the worked-out area. Utilizing this model, we assess the effectiveness of proposed measures designed to eliminate explosive gases from the worked-out area. Specifically, a pipeline system is proposed for the removal of gases. The findings from this study contribute valuable insights into ensuring the safe and efficient closure of potash mines, shedding light on potential risks and effective mitigation strategies for gas-related hazards during planned flooding.
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Open AccessArticle
Comparison of MLR, MNLR, and ANN Models for Estimation of Young’s Modulus (E50) and Poisson’s Ratio (υ) of Rock Materials Using Non-Destructive Measurement Methods
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Orcun Tugay Deniz and Vedat Deniz
Mining 2024, 4(3), 642-656; https://doi.org/10.3390/mining4030036 - 6 Sep 2024
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In this study, the static E50 and υ parameters of rock materials were investigated using P-S wave velocities and Shore hardness (SH), using non-destructive measurement methods. In this study, the multiple linear regression (MLR), multiple non-linear regression (
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In this study, the static E50 and υ parameters of rock materials were investigated using P-S wave velocities and Shore hardness (SH), using non-destructive measurement methods. In this study, the multiple linear regression (MLR), multiple non-linear regression (MNLR), and artificial neural network (ANN) models were used to estimate and determine the static E50 and υ parameters. When comparing the models defined by MLR, MNLR, and ANN to the R2 values, it was found that the ANN models, which estimate the E50 and υ parameters of rock materials using non-destructive methods (Vp, Vs, Vp/Vs, ρd, and SH), achieved higher accuracy than the MLR and MNLR models. The originality of this study is rooted in the fact that ores such as galena, chromite, and barite were studied for the first time from a rock mechanics perspective, providing an innovative viewpoint. In addition, the use of all non-destructive measurement methods, Vp, Vs, and Shore hardness tests, also increases the importance of the study findings.
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Open AccessArticle
On the Behavior of Bauxite Tailings under a Wide Range of Stresses
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Rosanne Rodrigues Santos Maciel Gonçalves, Matheus de Rezende Dutra, Bruna Zakharia Hoch, Hugo Carlos Scheuermann Filho, Fernando Schnaid and Lucas Festugato
Mining 2024, 4(3), 629-641; https://doi.org/10.3390/mining4030035 - 31 Aug 2024
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Despite its vital importance to the contemporary economy, some drawbacks are mainly associated with waste derived from mining activity. This waste consists of tailings that are hydraulically disposed of in large impoundments, the tailings dams. As the dams are enlarged to accommodate higher
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Despite its vital importance to the contemporary economy, some drawbacks are mainly associated with waste derived from mining activity. This waste consists of tailings that are hydraulically disposed of in large impoundments, the tailings dams. As the dams are enlarged to accommodate higher amounts of materials, the stress states at which the deposited tailings are submitted change. This may be a concern for the stability of such structures once the geotechnical behavior of this material may be complex and challenging to predict, considering the existing approaches. Thus, the present study concerns the mechanical response of bauxite tailings under a wide span of stresses, ranging from 25 kPa to 4000 kPa. One-dimensional compression tests and isotropically drained and undrained triaxial tests were carried out on intact and remolded samples of the bauxite tailings. The after-shearing grain size distribution was characterized via sedimentation analysis. The results have shown a stress-dependency of the critical state friction angle for the intact material, which may be related to fabric alterations derived from structure deterioration and particle breakage. Overall, this research provides valuable insights into the response of structured and de-structured bauxite tailings, which are helpful for future constitutive modeling of such material.
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Open AccessArticle
Examining Sustainable Transition and Post-Mining Management in the Ruhr Region and the Prospective Evaluation of Knowledge Transfer to Kosovo’s Mining Sector
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Kemajl Zeqiri, Tansel Dogan, Stefan Möllerherm and Sara Kasmaeeyazdi
Mining 2024, 4(3), 613-628; https://doi.org/10.3390/mining4030034 - 27 Aug 2024
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Despite the long tradition of mining activities in Kosovo, there is still the a lack of policies for post-mining. Specifically, focusing on coal mining, this research analyzes the sustainable transition and post-mining management in the Ruhr Region, exploring the potential for knowledge transfer
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Despite the long tradition of mining activities in Kosovo, there is still the a lack of policies for post-mining. Specifically, focusing on coal mining, this research analyzes the sustainable transition and post-mining management in the Ruhr Region, exploring the potential for knowledge transfer to enhance mining practices in Kosovo. The research aims to identify transferable strategies for sustainable mining transitions by examining environmental, social, and economic dimensions. Through comparative analysis, the study assesses the applicability of Ruhr’s experiences in fostering environmentally responsible mining practices in Kosovo and beyond. Similarities and possible challenges are discussed based on the environmental and socio-economic points of view. The findings contribute insights into effective post-mining strategies, facilitating knowledge transfer to regions undergoing similar transitions and thereby fostering sustainable mining practices globally.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Post-Mining Management)
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Multi-Level Characterization of Lignite Mine Waste by the Integration of Wide Wavelength Range Infrared Spectroscopy
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Oscar Kamps, Feven Desta, Fardad Maghsoudi Moud and Mike Buxton
Mining 2024, 4(3), 588-612; https://doi.org/10.3390/mining4030033 - 26 Aug 2024
Abstract
Both the mineralogy and geochemistry of coal mine waste presents environmental and social challenges while simultaneously offering the potential source for recovery of metals, including critical raw materials (CRMs). Assessing these challenges and opportunities requires effective waste management strategies and comprehensive material characterization.
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Both the mineralogy and geochemistry of coal mine waste presents environmental and social challenges while simultaneously offering the potential source for recovery of metals, including critical raw materials (CRMs). Assessing these challenges and opportunities requires effective waste management strategies and comprehensive material characterization. This study deals with the integration of analytical data obtained from various portable sensor technologies. Infrared reflection spectroscopy (covering a wide wavelength range of 0.4 to 15 µm), and geochemical x-ray fluorescence (XRF) were utilized to differentiate between samples belonging to various geological lithologies and quantify elements of interest. Therefore, we developed a methodological framework that encompasses data integration and machine learning techniques. The model developed using the infrared data predicts the Sr concentration with a model accuracy of R2 = 0.77 for the testing dataset; however, the model performances decreased for predicting other elements such as Pb, Zn, Y, and Th. Despite these limitations, the approach demonstrates better performance in discriminating materials based on both mineralogical and geochemical compositions. Overall, the developed methodology, enables rapid and in-situ determination of coal mine waste composition, providing insights into waste composition that are directly linked to potential environmental impact, and the possible recovery of economically valuable metals.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Post-Mining Management)
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Experimental Investigation into Deploying a Wi-Fi6 Mesh System for Underground Gold and Platinum Mine Stopes
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Brenton Lloyd Chetty, Tom Mmbasu Walingo, Carel Phillip Kruger and Sherrin John Isaac
Mining 2024, 4(3), 567-587; https://doi.org/10.3390/mining4030032 - 17 Aug 2024
Abstract
Stopes suffer from unreliable wireless communication due to their harsh environment. There is a lack of confidence within industry regarding the effectiveness of existing solutions in providing reliable high-bandwidth performance in hard rock stopes. This work proposes that Wi-Fi6 is a good candidate
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Stopes suffer from unreliable wireless communication due to their harsh environment. There is a lack of confidence within industry regarding the effectiveness of existing solutions in providing reliable high-bandwidth performance in hard rock stopes. This work proposes that Wi-Fi6 is a good candidate for reliable high-bandwidth communications in underground hard rock stopes. Experiments in a tunnel and mine stope were conducted to evaluate the performance of Wi-Fi6 in terms of latency, jitter, and throughput. Different criteria, such as multi-hop systems, varying multipath, mesh routing protocols, and frequencies at different bandwidths, were used to evaluate performance. The results show that Wi-Fi6 performance is greater in stopes compared to tunnels. Signal quality evaluations were conducted using the Asus RT-AX53U running OpenWrt, and an additional experiment was conducted on the nrf7002dk running Zephyr OS to evaluate the power consumption of Wi-Fi6 against the industry standard for low-powered wireless communications, IEEE 802.15.4. Wi-Fi6 was found to be more power-efficient than IEEE 802.15.4 for Mbps communications. These experiments highlight the signal robustness of Wi-Fi6 in stope environments and also highlights its low-powered nature. This work also highlights the performance of the two most widely used open-source mesh routing protocols for Wi-Fi.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Mining Innovation)
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A Systems Engineering Approach to Incorporate ESG Risks and Opportunities in Early-Stage Mine Design and Planning
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Micah Nehring and Peter Knights
Mining 2024, 4(3), 546-566; https://doi.org/10.3390/mining4030031 - 12 Aug 2024
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This study examines how ESG risks and opportunities can be systematically identified, assessed, and incorporated into the early-stage design and planning of natural resources projects. The focus for this study will be on the mining activities required to source the resources for the
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This study examines how ESG risks and opportunities can be systematically identified, assessed, and incorporated into the early-stage design and planning of natural resources projects. The focus for this study will be on the mining activities required to source the resources for the global decarbonization effort. The need for a framework to incorporate ESG risks and opportunities into the strategic mine planning process was first identified in the de Beers Sustainability Valuation Approach. The Social Value Capital Decision Model advanced by BHP represents an advance on the de Beers model. This is the first example of a structured methodology for systematically considering stakeholder values and incorporating these into the capital decision framework. To test the applicability of a new approach to mine design by using Quality Function Deployment (QFD), a case study involving a copper mine located in South America was developed. This case study demonstrates how QFD can provide clear line-of-sight to connect design decisions with priority stakeholder concerns. The framework provides a communications tool for aligning the ESG design process across functional silos within complex organizations. The development of appropriate software tools could assist in managing the inherent complexity associated with integrating stakeholder value concerns into early stage design decisions.
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Open AccessArticle
A Preliminary Assessment of Underground Space Resources for Hydrogen Storage in Salt Caverns in Lambton County, Southern Ontario, Canada
by
Ling Li, Shunde Yin and Zhizhang Wang
Mining 2024, 4(3), 530-545; https://doi.org/10.3390/mining4030030 - 26 Jul 2024
Abstract
Underground hydrogen storage (UHS) is considered to solve the intermittency problem of renewable energy. A geological assessment indicated that the B unit of the Salina Group in Southern Ontario, Canada, is the most promising for UHS because it is the thickest and most
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Underground hydrogen storage (UHS) is considered to solve the intermittency problem of renewable energy. A geological assessment indicated that the B unit of the Salina Group in Southern Ontario, Canada, is the most promising for UHS because it is the thickest and most regionally extensive salt rock deposit. However, the comprehensive geological knowledge of potential sites and overall salt volume for UHS remains undiscovered. This paper collected 1112 wells’ logging data to assess the geologic potential for UHS in Lambton County. The geological characteristic analysis of the B unit was conducted using high-frequency stratigraphic sequences and logging interpretation. The internal lithologies and thicknesses of the B unit were interpreted from 426 available wells. The storage capacity of the salt caverns was calculated from simplified cylinder models. The results indicate that the B unit can be subdivided into three high-frequency sequences, denoted as the SQ1, SQ2, and SQ3 subunits. SQ1 corresponds to salt–limestone, SQ2 corresponds to bedded salt rocks, and SQ3 corresponds to massive salt rocks. Well sections and thickness maps indicate that the study area can be divided into two sub-areas along the Wilikesport, Oil Spring, and Watford line. To the northwest, unit B was thicker and deeper in terms of paleo-water depth, and to the southeast, less of the B unit was deposited on the paleo-highs. The main thicknesses in SQ1, SQ2, and SQ3 range from 20 to 30 m, 25 to 35 m, and 30 to 40 m, respectively. In conclusion, the best subunit for UHS is SQ3, with a secondary target being SQ2. The main factor impacting cavern storage capacity for the SQ2 subunit is high mud content, while for SQ3, it is the meters-thick anhydrite developed towards the base of the unit. The available underground storage volume of the salt caverns in the B unit is 9.10 × 106 m3. At the standard state, the working gas volume is 557.80 × 106 m3. The favorable area for UHS is the western part surrounded by Wallaceburg, Oil Spring, and Watford. The thickness distribution of the B unit is the combined result of paleo-topography, sea-level changes, and tectonic movement in Lambton. The geological storage capacity of the salt caverns exhibits significant potential.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Coupled Thermal, Hydraulic, Mechanical and Chemical Phenomena as Related to Underground Safety and Green Mines)
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Open AccessArticle
Spatiotemporal Analysis of Total Suspended Solids in Water Bodies and Mapping Mining Areas in Suriname and French Guiana
by
Breno Mello Pereira and Felipe de Lucia Lobo
Mining 2024, 4(3), 510-529; https://doi.org/10.3390/mining4030029 - 16 Jul 2024
Abstract
Artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) has made several environmental impacts, resulting in the significant siltation of water bodies due to the deposition of sediments on riverbanks. Based on this perspective, this study aims to investigate the water bodies and regions most impacted
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Artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) has made several environmental impacts, resulting in the significant siltation of water bodies due to the deposition of sediments on riverbanks. Based on this perspective, this study aims to investigate the water bodies and regions most impacted by mining activities, especially in relation to the increase in the Total Suspended Solids (TSS) caused by ASGM, focusing on the territories of Suriname and French Guiana, over the period from 2017 to 2023, through the creation of an algorithm in Google Earth Engine. This research also aims to map and describe active mining in this region using the Classification and Regression Tree (CART) method, which achieved an overall accuracy of 82% and a kappa index of 0.77. The results reveal that from 2017 to 2024, there was an increase of 148.09 km2 in mining, with an average increase in TSS of up to 167 mg/L in water bodies most affected by mining activities. Finally, the continued importance of using remote sensing technologies, such as GEE, together with innovative methodological approaches, to monitor and manage natural resources in a sustainable manner is highlighted.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Exploring the Mine Environment, Safety Risk and Occupational Health)
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