Mineral Processing
Jiaye Li; Jing Zhao; Zebin Wang; Huan Liu; Qing Wen; Jinling Yin; Ze Li; Yang Lei; Guiling Wang
Abstract
Traditional graphite has safety and environmental issues, associated with fluorine purification. To address these issues, an energy-saving and efficient graphite purification process can be explored through the acid leaching method with composite additives. The acid leaching process was studied and optimized ...
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Traditional graphite has safety and environmental issues, associated with fluorine purification. To address these issues, an energy-saving and efficient graphite purification process can be explored through the acid leaching method with composite additives. The acid leaching process was studied and optimized in detail using the controlled variable method including the effects of the soaking time and temperature on the graphite purification process. Then the response surface method was used to simulate the orthogonal experiment of graphite purification to verify the correctness of the single-factor, experiment. The purity and micromorphology of the graphite samples at each stage were characterized and tested. The experimental results showed that the optimal liquid-to-solid ratio of the acid solution and graphite was 20:1, which could make the fixed carbon content reach 99.77%. On the basis of these optimal process conditions, the addition types were further explored. The experimental result showed that the best addition was ascorbic acid and EDTA, which could reduce the content of various impurities in the graphite raw material without destroying the microstructure of the graphite. Benefitting from the addition of compound additives in the two-step process, almost all the metal ions were leached from the graphite. After the acid and water leaching, the fixed carbon content of graphite could reach 99.96%. The process parameters proposed in this paper were scientifically verified by both the single-factor and multi-factor experiments, and innovative and effective additives were introduced in different steps to make the graphite purity break through 99.9%, which was difficult to reach by the traditional method.
Blessing Olamide Taiwo; Gebretsadik Angesom; Yewuhalashet Fissha; Yemane Kide; Enming Li; Kiross Haile; Oluwaseun Augustine Oni
Abstract
Rock blast production rate (BPR) is one of the most crucial factors in the evaluation of mine project's performance. In order to improve the production of a limestone mine, the blast design parameters and image analysis results are used in this work to evaluate the BPR. Additionally, the effect of rock ...
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Rock blast production rate (BPR) is one of the most crucial factors in the evaluation of mine project's performance. In order to improve the production of a limestone mine, the blast design parameters and image analysis results are used in this work to evaluate the BPR. Additionally, the effect of rock strength on BPR is determined using the blast result collected. In order to model BPR prediction using artificial neural networks (ANNs) and multivariate prediction techniques, a total of 219 datasets with 8 blasting influential parameters from limestone mine blasting in India are collected. To obtain a high-accuracy model, a new training process called the permutation important-based Bayesian (PI-BANN) training approach is proposed in this work. The developed models are validated with new 20 blast rounds, and evaluated with two model performance indices. The validation result shows that the two model results agree well with the BPR practical records. Additionally, compared to the MVR model, the proposed PI-BANN model in this work provides a more accurate result. Based on the controllable parameters, the two models can be used to predict BPR in a variety of rock excavation techniques. The study result reveals that rock strength variation affects both the blast outcome (BPR) and the quantity of explosives used in each blast round.
Exploration
Naresh Kumar Katariya; Bhanwar Singh Choudhary
Abstract
Slope stability and bench safety in iron ore open-pit mines in western India are comprehensively analysed in this research. To evaluate current mining conditions and identify areas at risk, the study integrates comprehensive field observations, laboratory testing, and advanced slope stability modelling ...
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Slope stability and bench safety in iron ore open-pit mines in western India are comprehensively analysed in this research. To evaluate current mining conditions and identify areas at risk, the study integrates comprehensive field observations, laboratory testing, and advanced slope stability modelling using Slide 6.0 software. Factors of safety (FOS) of various mining sections varied from 0.475 to 1.495, as per limit equilibrium analysis with Slide 6.0. This signifies the presence of possibly unstable slopes that require certain stabilisation measures to ensure operational safety. The research considers how significant environmental factors, like temperature, wind speed, rainfall, and soil moisture, influence slope stability in addition to the geotechnical analysis. Rainfall and soil moisture were found to have a high and statistically significant positive correlation (Pearson correlation = 0.706, p = 0.005), implying that an increase in rainfall results in increased soil moisture content, which in turn affects the behaviour of slopes. Also, a moderate degree of negative relationship between temperature and wind speed was revealed (partial correlation = -0.593, p = 0.042), meaning that smaller wind speeds are characteristically associated with increased temperatures. These findings highlight the importance of continuous monitoring of the environment in open-pit mine operations and the importance of considering environmental factors when assessing slope stability. The information collected in this study provides a solid foundation for developing valuable recommendations intended to enhance safety, better control slopes, and promote the long-term development of mining activities in the region.
Mineral Processing
Rahul Shakya; Manendra Singh
Abstract
Due to the critical nature of seismic risk in metro tunnels, the seismic response of underground tunnels is a highly delicate topic. The seismic response of a sub-surface structure depends more on the properties of the surrounding ground and the induced earth deformation during an earthquake than on ...
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Due to the critical nature of seismic risk in metro tunnels, the seismic response of underground tunnels is a highly delicate topic. The seismic response of a sub-surface structure depends more on the properties of the surrounding ground and the induced earth deformation during an earthquake than on the structure's inertial properties. This paper examines the seismic response of a typical section of the underground tunnel of Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) between Rajiv Square and Patel Square in New Delhi's Connaught Place. Three-dimensional elasto-plastic analysis of Delhi metro underground tunnels under the seismic loading has been performed by finite element method using the Plaxis 3D software. Additionally, the influence of various boundary conditions on the dynamic response of metro tunnels has been examined. A comparison of the three-dimensional analysis with the two-dimensional plane-strain analysis has also been made. Horizontal displacements were experienced maximum compared to the longitudinal and vertical displacements in the soil-tunnel system. In dynamic analysis, the absorbent boundary is much more effective in controlling the displacements and the induced acceleration than the elementary boundary or the free-field boundary.
Exploration
Ahmed Mahmoud Abdelhameed; Maher Abdelateef El Amawy; Ayman Mahrous; Mohamed El-Khouly; Adel Fathy
Abstract
Hyperspectral imaging (HSI), combined with advanced machine learning algorithms (MLAs), has unlocked novel research opportunities and revolutionized geological mapping by enabling precise lithological classification. Accurately detailed geological mapping is one of the most essential requirements for ...
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Hyperspectral imaging (HSI), combined with advanced machine learning algorithms (MLAs), has unlocked novel research opportunities and revolutionized geological mapping by enabling precise lithological classification. Accurately detailed geological mapping is one of the most essential requirements for targeting mineralization. However, achieving comprehensive lithological mapping remains a challenge, hindering systematic mineral exploration. This work explores the use of PRISMA hyperspectral data and the Support Vector Machine (SVM) and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) algorithms to objectively map the Precambrian rock assemblages at the El Ineigi area in the Central Eastern Desert (CED) of Egypt. For this purpose, PRISMA data in HDF5 format were first pre-processed and subsequently transformed through principal component analysis (PCA). The processed spectral data were then combined with extensive fieldwork and previously existing geological maps and classified using SVM and ANN to achieve enhanced discrimination of the exposed rock units in the study area. Our results conclusively demonstrate the exceptional capability of PRISMA data for detailed lithological mapping. The SVM and ANN classification achieved remarkably high overall accuracy, successfully generating a robust geological map that clearly discriminates between various Neoproterozoic basement rock units in the El Ineigi area. Through the integration of diagnostic spectral signatures with field verification, we confidently identified all major mappable units, including metavolcanics, metagabbro-diorite complexes, younger granites, and Wadi deposits. The proposed integrated approach demonstrates superior performance compared to traditional mapping techniques, offering enhanced discrimination precision and operational efficiency. These findings strongly support the combined use of PRISMA hyperspectral data and MLAs for lithological mapping applications.
Mineral Processing
M. Naderi; Seyed Z. Shafaie; M. Karamoozian; Sh. Gharanjik
Abstract
In this work, the parameters affecting the recovery of copper from the low-grade sulfide minerals of Sarcheshmeh Copper Mine were studied. A low-grade sulfide ore was used with a copper grade of 0.25%, which was about 28% of the mineral oxide, and the sulfide minerals made up the rest. Much more sulfide ...
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In this work, the parameters affecting the recovery of copper from the low-grade sulfide minerals of Sarcheshmeh Copper Mine were studied. A low-grade sulfide ore was used with a copper grade of 0.25%, which was about 28% of the mineral oxide, and the sulfide minerals made up the rest. Much more sulfide minerals were found to be pyrite and most of the gangue minerals were quartz, anorthite, biotite, and muscovite. In order to investigate, simultaneously, the solids (10 to 20%) and acidity (1.5 to 2.5) and shaking (110 to 150 rpm), the separation of bacteria from Sarcheshmeh Copper Mine was carried out. After adjustment of the sample, bio-leaching tests were performed in accordance with the pattern defined by the software DX7 in shaking flasks, and the Cu recovery was modeled and optimized using the response surface methodology. The influential parameters were comprehensively studied. The central composite design methodology was used as the design matrix to predict the optimal level of these parameters. Then the model equation was optimized. The results obtained showed that increasing solids (from 10 to 20%) was bad for bacteria. The highest copper recovery was equivalent to 69.91%, obtained after 21 days at 35 degrees using the Acidi Thiobacillus Ferrooxidans bacteria and a K9 medium with a pulp density of 10% and pH 1.5.
K.M. Tanguturi; R.S. Balusu
Abstract
It is necessary to obtain a fundamental understanding of the goaf gas flow patterns in longwall mine in order to develop optimum goaf gas drainage and spontaneous combustion (sponcom) management strategies. The best ventilation layout for a longwall underground mine should assist in goaf gas drainage ...
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It is necessary to obtain a fundamental understanding of the goaf gas flow patterns in longwall mine in order to develop optimum goaf gas drainage and spontaneous combustion (sponcom) management strategies. The best ventilation layout for a longwall underground mine should assist in goaf gas drainage and further reduce the risk of sponcom in the goaf. Further, in the longwall panel, regulators are installed in the maingate (MG) seals to control the gas migration on the MG side and the mine operators frequently encountered with seals leakage problems leading to abnormal gas contents in the tube bundles. Extensive parametric studies were carried out to investigate the effects of ventilation layouts, regulators, and seals leakages on the goaf gas distribution using the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) techniques. The results of various CFD simulations are presented and discussed in detail in this paper.
Rock Mechanics
M. Akhyani; R. Mikaeil; F. Sereshki; M. Taji
Abstract
Predicting the wear performance of circular diamond saw in the process of sawing hard dimensional stone is an important step in reducing production costs in the stone sawing industry. In the present research work, the effective parameters on circular diamond saw wear are defined, and then the weight ...
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Predicting the wear performance of circular diamond saw in the process of sawing hard dimensional stone is an important step in reducing production costs in the stone sawing industry. In the present research work, the effective parameters on circular diamond saw wear are defined, and then the weight of each parameter is determined through adopting a fuzzy rock engineering system (Fuzzy RES) based on defining an accurate Gaussian pattern in fuzzy logic with analogous weighting. After this step, genetic algorithm (GA) is used to determine the levels of the four major variables and the amounts of the saw wear (output parameter) in the classification operation based on the fixed, dissimilar, and logarithmic spanning methods. Finally, a mathematical relationship is suggested for evaluation of the accuracy of the proposed models. The main contribution of our method is the novelty of combination of these methods in fuzzy RES. Before this work, all Fuzzy RESs only use simple membership functions and uniform spanning. Using GA for spanning and normal distribution as membership function based upon our latest work is the first work in fuzzy RES. To verify the selected proposed model, rock mechanics tests are conducted on nine hard stone samples, and the diamond saw wear is measured and compared with the proposed model. According to the results obtained, the proposed model exhibits acceptable capabilities in predicting the circular diamond saw wear.
J. Manyepa; V. Patson Mutambo
Abstract
Designing suitable extraction methods for mining randomly occurring pocket formation of gemstones has never been easy at the Musakashi emerald mine due to the limited geological information. In order to improve the productivity as well as the recovery, in this work, we undertake a detailed ...
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Designing suitable extraction methods for mining randomly occurring pocket formation of gemstones has never been easy at the Musakashi emerald mine due to the limited geological information. In order to improve the productivity as well as the recovery, in this work, we undertake a detailed geological survey (airborne, surface mapping, geochemical sampling, and trenching activities), and review, analyze, and establish the appropriate extraction methods, and conduct the economic viability of the mining emeralds in the Musakashi area. A total of 51 holes are drilled in order to define the mineralization and estimate the mineral resource for the rubble ore and the in-situ ore zones using the Surpac Geovia software. The diamond drilling unravels the existence of an alteration zone enveloping the shales in an area of 150m by 100m. The emerald is localized within these reaction zones, and is estimated to extend to a depth of about 20–30m below the surface. The total mineral resource stands at 345, 290 grams for the rubble ore and 123,870 grams for the discordant veins. From the geological information obtained, a trial pit design is established with a target of increasing recovery of emeralds from the current 10 kg to 100 kg per year.
Blessing Olamide Taiwo
Abstract
Assessment of blast results is a significant approach for the improvement of mining operations. The different procedures for investigating rock fragmentation have their limitations, causing different variation prediction errors. Thus every technique is site-explicit, and applicable for a few explicit ...
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Assessment of blast results is a significant approach for the improvement of mining operations. The different procedures for investigating rock fragmentation have their limitations, causing different variation prediction errors. Thus every technique is site-explicit, and applicable for a few explicit purposes. This work evaluates the existing empirical blast fragmentation model predictions in the case study of small-scale dolomite quarries. An attempt is made to compare the prediction accuracy of the modified Kuz-Ram model, Lawal 2021 model, and Kuznetsov-Cunningham-Ouchterlony (KCO) model with the WipFrag© analysis result and proposed artificial neural network (ANN) models. The prediction error analysis of the current models and that of the new proposed ANN models is evaluated using the three model assessment indices. The assessment indices uncover that the KCO model when compared to the modified Kuz-Ram model has the least error for most blast round percentage passing size predicted. However, the proposed artificial neural network models show high prediction exactness in predicting blast fragment mean size than the existing empirical models. Therefore, the proposed ANN models can be used to improve the productivity of small-scale dolomite blasting operation results for practical purposes.
S. Mulenga; R. Kaunda
Abstract
In this work, a new drilling and blasting design methodology is introduced and applied at a case study mine to improve productivity. For the case study copper mine, a blast diameter of 203 mm is proposed to be used in the ore zone to meet the new required production rate of 90mtpa from 75mtpa. Currently, ...
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In this work, a new drilling and blasting design methodology is introduced and applied at a case study mine to improve productivity. For the case study copper mine, a blast diameter of 203 mm is proposed to be used in the ore zone to meet the new required production rate of 90mtpa from 75mtpa. Currently, the Konya and Walter’s model is used to generate drilling and blasting design at a blasthole diameter of 172 mm. The new drilling and blast design approach is advantageous in the sense that it generates a lower specific drilling value and predicts an average fragment size compared with the current method being used. In this regard, a modified available energy blast design method that incorporates the blastability index of ore zone in the calculation of the input powder factor is introduced. The results of the blast design simulations at a 203 mm blasthole diameter shows that the modified available energy model generates a drilling and blasting design with a specific drilling value that is 15.3% less than that generated by the Ash’s and Konya and Walter’s models. Further, the modified available energy model generates a blast design with a predicted average fragment size that is 3.4% smaller than that generated by the Ash’s model, and 6.7% smaller than that generated by the Konya and Walter’s model.
Rahul Shakya; Manendra Singh
Abstract
Due to fast urbanization, there is a shortage of above-ground surfaces. Thus to reduce this shortage of above-ground surface, underground tunnels are constructed beneath the structure for transportation purposes. As a result, it is critical to understand how earthquakes affect underground tunnels, so ...
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Due to fast urbanization, there is a shortage of above-ground surfaces. Thus to reduce this shortage of above-ground surface, underground tunnels are constructed beneath the structure for transportation purposes. As a result, it is critical to understand how earthquakes affect underground tunnels, so that people's lives can be saved and service levels can be maintained. Underground constructions cannot be considered entirely immune to the impacts of ground shaking, as evidenced by the Kobe earthquake (1995), the Chi-Chi earthquake (1999), and the Niigata earthquake (2004), when some underground structures were severely damaged. A typical section at Chandani Chowk of DMRC (Delhi Metro Rail Corporation) tunnels, New Delhi, India, has been analyzed by using the finite element method. Response of the soil tunnel system for the Uttarkashi earthquake (1991) has been found out in the form of maximum forces induced in the RC liner of the tunnel, displacement, induced acceleration and stresses. The results have been compared with the available closed-form solutions. Parametric studies by considering different parameters such as effect of contraction (volume loss), influence of boundary conditions and damping, effect of interface condition between soil and tunnel, effect of displacement time history and effect of a nearby building have also been conducted. Forces in RC liners and stress concentration obtained in the present study are well-matched to those obtained by available closed formed solutions. The vertical stress concentration and volume loss depend upon the soil medium's constitutive behavior. The section under consideration was safe against the 1991 Uttarkashi earthquake. It can also be observed that, due to the presence of the building, the axial force and bending moment increased in tunnel’s liner, and the value of all three forces reduced as the position of the building was away from the tunnel. Shear force and bending moment were maximum for full slip condition between soil and tunnel lining however the effect of the interface condition on the displacement was negligible after a certain value of the interface condition.
Exploration
Mohamed Y Amer; Adel M Salem; Mohammed S Farahat; Said Kamel Elsayed
Abstract
Sustainable production of sufficient energy to power the world’s economy with a minimum environmental footprint has been one of the most significant challenges for the decades. Geothermal energy has been considered as one of the promising options to meet the world’s future energy demand. ...
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Sustainable production of sufficient energy to power the world’s economy with a minimum environmental footprint has been one of the most significant challenges for the decades. Geothermal energy has been considered as one of the promising options to meet the world’s future energy demand. The cost of drilling geothermal wells is between 35% and 50% of the total investment cost for the new high-temperature geothermal plants. This “up front” cost makes the geothermal plants more expensive to build than the conventional plants, and because of this and the perceived risk, a lot of attention has been focused on reducing this cost.This paper attempts to minimize the cost of drilling deep wells such as AG-119X, in Egypt of 20060 ft. in depths; in this well, the actual cost was more than the proposed by about five million USD. The actual cost of the drilling operation has been analyzed and compared with the proposed; by observing the cost of each drilling item, it was found that the power drive tools in the bottom hole assembly such as the downhole motor with Rotary Steerable drilling system (RSS) or turbodrill hydraulic downhole motor is the most costly element of the drilling operation in 8.5 holes, which tack thirteen trips in every trip with a new bit, and it was found that the turbodrill hydraulic downhole motor was costly effected in drilling the shush section, in this, and can save around 1756999 USD; this paper is a road map for reducing the cost of drilling geothermal wells.
Mineral Processing
G.G. Berhe; A. Velázquez del Rosario; Y. Abubeker; W. Girma; T. Bogale; C. Mulugeta Sisay
Abstract
The decomposition of the Ethiopian Kenticha tantalite ore was studied using the KOH fusion and H2O leaching system at 400 0C for a 1 h reaction time. The experimental results obtained showed that 27 wt% of Ta2O5 was mainly transformed into insoluble KTaO3, not to be KNbO3, and as well, into the dissolved ...
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The decomposition of the Ethiopian Kenticha tantalite ore was studied using the KOH fusion and H2O leaching system at 400 0C for a 1 h reaction time. The experimental results obtained showed that 27 wt% of Ta2O5 was mainly transformed into insoluble KTaO3, not to be KNbO3, and as well, into the dissolved liquor containing 94.73 vol% of Nb2O5 and 75.80 vol% of Ta2O5. The observations, supported by the EDXRF, XRD, and ICP-OES techniques, showed that the ratio of the dissolved mixture of Nb and Ta metal ions was beneficial to the solvent extraction from both Ta2O5 and Nb2O5. Niobium and tantalum were extracted from their neutralized alkaline dissolved and hydrolyzed solution by a new process using the EMIC/AlCl3 ionic liquid as the extractant using selective stripping, precipitation, and calcination of a highly crystalline pure 99.84 wt% of Nb2O5 and amophours 90.81 wt% of Ta2O5. The compositions of the dissolved metal ions and solids were analyzed by the ICP-OES, EDXRF, XRD, and FT-IR techniques.
Exploration
Prince Ofori Amponsah; Eric Dominic Forson
Abstract
This study was set out to delineate prospective zones of gold mineralization occurrence over the Julie tenement of Northwestern Ghana using two spatial statistical techniques, namely information value (IV) and weight of evidence (WofE) models. First, 110 locations, where gold (Au) mineralization has ...
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This study was set out to delineate prospective zones of gold mineralization occurrence over the Julie tenement of Northwestern Ghana using two spatial statistical techniques, namely information value (IV) and weight of evidence (WofE) models. First, 110 locations, where gold (Au) mineralization has been observed, were identified by field survey results derived from highly anomalous geo-chemical assay datasets. Of these 110 locations, 77 (representing 70% of the known locations, where gold has been observed) were randomly selected for training the aforementioned models, and the remaining 33 (analogous to 30% of the known Au occurrence) were used for validation. Secondly, eleven mineral conditioning factors (evidential layers) comprising analytic signal, reduction-to-equator (RTE), lineament density (LD), porphyry density, potassium concentration, thorium concentration, uranium concentration, potassium-thorium ratio, uranium-thorium ratio, geology, and arsenic concentration layers were sourced from geo-physical, geological, and geo-chemical datasets. Subsequently, by synthesizing these eleven evidential layers using the two spatial statistical techniques, two mineral prospectivity models were created in a geographic information system (GIS) environment. Finally, the mineral prospectivity models produced were validated using the area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUC). The results obtained showed that the IV model produced had a higher prediction accuracy in comparison with the mineral predictive model produced by the WofE with their AUC scores being 0.751 and 0.743, respectively.
Exploration
V. Adjiski; D. Mirakovski; Z. Despodov; S. Mijalkovski
Abstract
Auxiliary ventilation of the blind development heading in underground mines is one of the most challenging work activities amongst mining underground operations. The auxiliary forcing ventilation system provides positive pressure, cooling, controlling gas layering, and removing diesel fumes and dust ...
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Auxiliary ventilation of the blind development heading in underground mines is one of the most challenging work activities amongst mining underground operations. The auxiliary forcing ventilation system provides positive pressure, cooling, controlling gas layering, and removing diesel fumes and dust levels from development headings, stopes, and services facilities. The effectiveness of the auxiliary forcing ventilation system depends upon many system variables. Currently, no scientific models and calculations are available that can be used to estimate the optimal distance from the outlet of the auxiliary forcing ventilation system to the development heading in underground mines that can provide the most efficient ventilation close to the face of the heading. In this work, scenarios are developed and simulated with a validated CFD model inside the ANSYS Fluent software. In each scenario, the system parameters such as dead zone, mean age of air, and face velocity are calculated, which are later used in the optimization process. By examining these parameters at the development heading zone, we can quantify the effectiveness of the ventilation system and confirm that the system design meets the government regulations. This work is carried out using the k-epsilon realizable turbulent model inside the ANSYS Fluent software.
R. Koner
Abstract
The Wardha valley coalfields, situated in the western part of India, contribute to more than 7% of the national coal production. The open-pit mining methods are the modes of exploitation of coal in the majority of the mines in the area. Due to the increased depth of working and higher stripping ...
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The Wardha valley coalfields, situated in the western part of India, contribute to more than 7% of the national coal production. The open-pit mining methods are the modes of exploitation of coal in the majority of the mines in the area. Due to the increased depth of working and higher stripping ratio, the output of waste overburden is increased. The challenges are the scarcity of the available land for dumping waste overburden geo-material safely. Optimization of the mine dump slope geometry is the only available alternative in the hands of the management in order to increase the life of the projects and continue the production of coal. This investigation specifically addresses this issue, and proposes a combination of the optimum geometric configurations of the dump slope. This work utilizes the computational power of the numerical modeling technique in order to solve a large number of alternatives and zero them down to the optimum combination. The numerical modeling is considered as a major external factor that contributes to the mine dump's instability. This work shows an 18% increase in the dumping waste material volume in the present condition. This investigation also reveals that double stage dumping is comparably better in optimizing the dump slope configuration.
Muhammad Junaid; Rini Asnida Abdullah; Radzuan Sa'ari; Wahid Ali; Amber Islam; Mahmut Sari
Abstract
This research work aims to critically analyze the efficacy of inexpensive and rapid 2D electrical resistivity tomography (2D ERT) survey for sub-surface geological delineation of granite deposits. The research work involves six ERT profiles using the Schlumberger protocol with an inner and outer electrode ...
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This research work aims to critically analyze the efficacy of inexpensive and rapid 2D electrical resistivity tomography (2D ERT) survey for sub-surface geological delineation of granite deposits. The research work involves six ERT profiles using the Schlumberger protocol with an inner and outer electrode spacing of 5 m and 10 m, respectively. In addition, the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) survey is also performed to obtain the terrain information of the studied area. At the same time, a few boreholes are drilled to validate the 2D ERT interpretations. The 2D ERT survey reveals that strong resistivity contrast enables inverted resistivity imaging to characterize the deposit such as topsoil (100-800 Ωm), fracture granite (800-2300 Ωm), and solid granite (> 2300 Ωm). The results obtained from UAV, 2DERT, and borehole survey are further processed to estimate the bedrock to topsoil ratio to assess the feasibility of the deposit. The bedrock to topsoil ratio, estimated by 2D ERT and borehole, is 3.2 and 2.2, respectively. At the same time, the combined UAV, 2D ERT, and borehole survey calculates the bedrock volume 3.2 times to topsoil. Thus the research work allows us to conclude that 2D ERT is an inexpensive, viable, and efficient technique for sub-surface geological documentation, and helps select appropriate mining methods.
A. Owolabi
Abstract
In this paper, we report a geospatial assessment of the selected mine sites in the Plateau State, Nigeria. The aim of this work is to determine the impact of mining on the terrain as well as the Land Use/Land Cover (LULC) of the host communities. The Shuttle Radar Topographic Mission (SRTM) is used for ...
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In this paper, we report a geospatial assessment of the selected mine sites in the Plateau State, Nigeria. The aim of this work is to determine the impact of mining on the terrain as well as the Land Use/Land Cover (LULC) of the host communities. The Shuttle Radar Topographic Mission (SRTM) is used for the terrain mapping. The derived impact of mining on LULC between 1975 and 2014 is determined by classifying the relevant Landsat imageries. The digital terrain map reveal that the mining activity is not well-coordinated. Hence, the parts of the mine sites that are rich in the desired minerals are punctuated with low depth, while the other parts have high terrain as a result of the haphazard mining activity. The analysis of the LULC change show that the degraded land (DL), built-up area (BU), water bodies (WB), and exposed rock outcrop (RO) increase by 15.68%, 4.68%, 0.06%, and 14.5%, respectively, whereas the arable farmland (FL) and forest reserve (FR) decrease by 28.29% and 6.63%, respectively. Mining has adversely affected the natural ecology of the studied area. Therefore, the mine sites should be monitored, and their environmental damages should be pre-determined and mitigated. There should be regular inspections to keep these activities under control. The existing laws and regulations to conserve the natural ecosystems of the host communities should be enforced to curtail the excesses of the operators of the mining industries. Restoration of the minefields to reduce the existing hazards prevent further environmental degradation, and facilitating the socio-economic development of the area is also suggested.
Exploration
Ahmed Abdelhalim; Islam Abuelella; Shawky M Sakran; Said Mohamed Said
Abstract
Kharit basin is an interior Cretaceous rift basin hosted in a Precambrian basement complex of the Arabian-Nubian shield. Satellite images and potential geophysical data previously outlined the basin without a detailed field study. Kharit area is a remote and hyper-arid area; therefore, the application ...
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Kharit basin is an interior Cretaceous rift basin hosted in a Precambrian basement complex of the Arabian-Nubian shield. Satellite images and potential geophysical data previously outlined the basin without a detailed field study. Kharit area is a remote and hyper-arid area; therefore, the application of remote sensing is essential for completing the process of its geo-structural mapping. A multi-spectral optical dataset of the Landsat-8 and high-resolution images of Google Earth was integrated with the field investigation to classify the lithological units and define structures. That integration between analyzed satellite images and field investigations led to a geological map of a minimum scale of 1:50,000 for the lithological rock units and a maximum scale of up to 1:7000 for the structural mapping. The map shows an elongated NW-oriented rift basin filled by a thick deposit of Cretaceous sequences bounded from the east, west, and south by Proterozoic igneous and metamorphic rocks. Additionally, rift-related volcanic rocks were mapped along the western border fault system of the basin. The main mapped faults were delineated in three trends, NW-SE, WNW-ENE, and N-S, while several folds of NW orientations are developed as a normal drag of the main bounding faults. The Early Cretaceous extension along inherited Precambrian lineaments propagated this fault pattern and its associated folds. These structural elements configured the studied area architecture as several grabens with thick Cretaceous sequences.
Mineral Processing
Kwang Sok Jong; Chang Il Kim; Song Chol Kim; Kum Chon Jang; Hyon Hui Jang
Abstract
In this study, the effects of various reagents-sodium carbonate and sodium hydroxide as pH regulators, calcium lignosulfonic acid as depressant, and combined sodium oleate and amide as collector on the flotation of apatite ore were investigated using flotation experiments, and adsorption mechanism of ...
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In this study, the effects of various reagents-sodium carbonate and sodium hydroxide as pH regulators, calcium lignosulfonic acid as depressant, and combined sodium oleate and amide as collector on the flotation of apatite ore were investigated using flotation experiments, and adsorption mechanism of collector on apatite surface were evaluated using quantum mechanical simulations. The flotation experiments showed that the addition of 4 kg/t sodium carbonate and 1.5 kg/t sodium hydroxide as pH regulators, 3 kg/t calcium lignosulfonic acid as depressant and 60 g/t combined sodium oleic acid and oleamide (acid number of collector; 105 mgKOH/g) as collector exhibited excellent collecting ability for apatite. From low-grade apatite ore with P2O5 7.05%, a concentrate with P2O5 31.42% was obtained with 81.08% recovery in rougher flotation. Compared with the simulation results for the interaction energy between apatite {001} surface and collectors, and the relative concentration of collector on apatite {001} surface, adsorption strength has following order; combined sodium oleic acid and oleamide > sodium oleic acid > oleamide. From the simulation results on the equilibrium configuration of the collector with the fluorapatite {001} surface in the liquid environment, it was revealed that the two atoms (N and H) of the oleamide can form a strong bidentate conformation, and O atom in the C-O group and that in -C=O group of oleic acid anion can bond with the Ca atom on the surface {001} to form monodentate conformation.
Rock Mechanics
Pankaj Bhatt; Anil Kumar Sinha; Mariya Dayana P J; Parvathi Geetha Sreekantan; Murtaza Hasan
Abstract
The rapid development of road networks needs huge construction materials. Mining and industrial wastes can be used as sustainable road construction materials and will be alternatives to fulfill the huge demand in road construction. Zinc tailing is one such mining waste and has the potential for road ...
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The rapid development of road networks needs huge construction materials. Mining and industrial wastes can be used as sustainable road construction materials and will be alternatives to fulfill the huge demand in road construction. Zinc tailing is one such mining waste and has the potential for road construction. This material was collected from Zawar mines (Rajasthan), and characterization was carried out for embankment/subgrade applications. A physical model test was conducted in the laboratory to examine the stress-settlement behaviour. To improve the modulus value of tailing, it was reinforced with geogrid in two different laying patterns, viz. layer/loop and stress-settlement behavior was studied. Different parameters were studied: reinforcement depth, layer of reinforcement, number of loops, and depth of loop of reinforcement. The experimental result was validated with the numerical finite element method (SoilWorks). Tailing comprises fine-grained silt-size particles (61%) with no swelling behavior and non-plastic nature. It has values of MDD and OMC as 1.86 g/cm3 and 11%, respectively. It has a higher value of CBR (12%) and internal friction angle (34.6o) with cohesionless nature. The variation of settlement with stress is linear for reinforced and unreinforced tailing fill. As the depth of reinforcement increases, settlement increases in both layer and loop reinforcement. The settlement trajectory obtained from a numerical method closely resembles that of a laboratory physical model, particularly when the applied stress is up to 600 kPa. The modulus of elasticity of tailing was significantly improved with the introduction of geogrid reinforcement either in layer or loop.
Exploitation
Rahul Shende; Omkar Navagire; Himanshu Kumar Jangir; Srinivasan V.; Anirban Mandal; Anjan Patel
Abstract
Due to its intricate challenges, Black cotton (BC) soil is dumped separately in mining areas, and this study focuses on a BC soil dump at an open-cast mine site. This soil, characterized by cohesion of 26-40 kPa and internal friction angle of 13°-17°, exhibits significant expansion and contraction ...
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Due to its intricate challenges, Black cotton (BC) soil is dumped separately in mining areas, and this study focuses on a BC soil dump at an open-cast mine site. This soil, characterized by cohesion of 26-40 kPa and internal friction angle of 13°-17°, exhibits significant expansion and contraction with moisture fluctuations, swelling during wet periods, and shrinking during dry spells, posing considerable challenges in mining areas. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has suggested constructing a 15-20m wall to protect the village on the periphery of the BC soil dump of 36m height. This study aimed to identify sustainable and economical alternative feasible remedial solutions. Field testing, including borehole investigation, was conducted to determine the stratigraphy beneath the dump. Numerical analysis using SLOPE/W software was performed for slope optimization and to evaluate remedial measures such as stone pitching and rockfill trench. The study shows that the dump can be stabilized using the design modification and possible cost-effective measures. Based on field observations, dump material testing, and numerical analysis, alternative remedial measures were proposed and implemented. The study also includes a cost-benefit analysis of the recommended remedial measures.
Mineral Processing
Chol Ung Ryom; Kwang Hyok Pak; Il Chol Sin; Kwang Chol So
Abstract
Shaking table and flotation are often used in scheelite (CaWO4) beneficiation, and usually they are applied in sequence. In this paper, analysis of mineral movement have been investigated in shaking table in which pulp was conditioned with xanthate as a collector and fed, heavy scheelite was concentrated, ...
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Shaking table and flotation are often used in scheelite (CaWO4) beneficiation, and usually they are applied in sequence. In this paper, analysis of mineral movement have been investigated in shaking table in which pulp was conditioned with xanthate as a collector and fed, heavy scheelite was concentrated, while heavy pyrite removed directly on the deck by the action of collector. Artificially mixed mineral with 1% scheelite and 2% pyrite was used in CFD simulations and experiments. Through CFD simulations, it was found that pyrite particles, which were hydrophobic by collector, were attached to the water-air interface and subjected to upward buoyancy, which increased the density difference between scheelite and pyrite particles and enabled the separation of both minerals in the shaking table. The experiment results showed that the concentrate grade in conventional table concentration was 23.5% WO3, the separation efficiency was 77.89%, while the concentrate grade of scheelite in the table concentration of xanthate presence was 65.0% WO3 and the separation efficiency was 80.88%. The combination of flotation in table with collector addition not only eliminated the flotation to remove pyrite after table but also resulted in a lower rate of scheelite loss.
N. I. Aziz; I. Porter; F. Sereshki
Abstract
The volumetric changes in the coal matrix (Coal Shrinkage), permeability under various gas environment conditions as well as perographical properties were studied in the laboratory. The shrinkage and permeability of coal were examined with respect to changing gas type and confining pressures. The shrinkage ...
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The volumetric changes in the coal matrix (Coal Shrinkage), permeability under various gas environment conditions as well as perographical properties were studied in the laboratory. The shrinkage and permeability of coal were examined with respect to changing gas type and confining pressures. The shrinkage tests were carried out in high-pressure bombs while the permeability study was conducted in a specially constructed high-pressure chamber. Methane (CH4), carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen, (N2) and a 50% -50% volume mixture of CO2/CH4 gas were used in the study. The tests showed that under different pressure levels gas type affected permeability and shrinkage characteristics of coal. This paper presents a case study of Tahmoor Colliery, NSW, Australia and an overall discussion on coal shrinkage, permeability and coal petrography data of Tahmoor that permits a better understanding of the gas regime in this mine. The results are important to the further understanding of the inter-relationship between gas flow, the coal matrix and permeability in ‘normal’ and ‘tight’ coal conditions (locally referred to as disturbed coal).
