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By N. Rowlands

The importance of mineralogical and chemical characterization of fine particles in the fields of mineral and metallurgical processing is discussed. Emphasis is placed on electron beam analysis techniques including electron diffraction and energy dispersive analysis with special reference to the scanning trans- mission electron microscope. The correct choice of instrument depending upon particle size, composition and nature of sample is stressed and the analytica1 capabilities of different types of instruments are evaluated. Recent applications of electron beam equipment to processing problems are presented and the paper concludes with a review of new developments in the fields of surface analysis and micro-diffraction.

Jan 1, 1985

This paper addresses the valuation and development timing of an undeveloped mineral project. Traditional analysis has us developing the project immediately if its net present value (NPV) is positive. Option pricing theory finds that it is better to wait until the NPV of the property is significantly greater than zero before developing. Alternatively, when evaluating the development timing decision, we must calculate NPV using a higher "timing-adjusted" discount rate, and develop the property only if its NPV using this timing-adjusted discount rate is greater than zero. This paper uses option pricing ideas to convert this development timing advice into a more concrete and user-friendly decision rule: develop the project when its "development-timing NPV" is positive, this development-timing NPV being calculated using the normal discount rate.

Jan 1, 1997

By A. E. Koski

This paper describes the implementation of specialized software in mine planning at the Cleveland-Cliffs' managed Empire Mine on Michigan's Marquette Iron Range. The application puts together years of mining experience on the eastern end of the Marquette Range beginning in the early 1960's. The Empire Mine, in its thirty-fifth year of production, uses the software to model a complex and highly variable low grade magnetite ore body, capturing the economics of mining and processing to the final product. With special attention given to geostatistical methods, the software is used for all geologic modeling, ore reserve estimation, ore control, pit design and short and long range planning.

Jan 1, 1999

By L. Boyd, T. Martin, V. Gall

Water infiltration into subgrade infrastructure can cause major impacts on their performance. In addition to damaging the structure, water intrusion leads to deterioration of installations including electrical and mechanical components and in patron discomfort. To remedy these impacts, leak remediation is often carried out to halt water infiltration. Remediation methods include coatings, drainage, injection/stitch grouting, curtain (backside) grouting, and/or internal umbrella systems. Selection of the rehabilitation method depends on the structure’s use, owners’ priorities, its installations, structural conditions, surrounding ground, and hydrogeologic conditions. Since many factors influence the rehabilitation method chosen, a novel holistic approach is undertaken to understand leakage causes and consequences to develop the most appropriate, efficient, and reliable solution to extend the structure’s life. A reconnaissance phase combines geologic, hydrogeologic, and as-built information with detailed digital scans and visual observations to develop a database of existing conditions. This database, called a tunnelband, is used to develop the rehabilitation solution and made part of the contract documents, allowing for an informed bid by specialty contractors. Tunnelband and the preferred rehabilitation system are portrayed in contract documents, which are procured in various contract types depending on the owner’s preference and project characteristics. The pool of contractors are required to submit their understanding of this holistic approach by developing and supplying the owner with a detailed workplan. The completed rehabilitation is portrayed in detailed as-built drawings which also provide the owner with an operation and maintenance manual outlining for periodic observation of the structure and checking of its performance. Ultimately, this information is implemented into a “BIM Digital Twin” that is used by the operations and maintenance staff for long-term observations. This proposed novel framework for leak rehabilitation is currently being used successfully in a number of projects throughout the United States.

Jun 13, 2023

By Hamid Maleki

Rock mechanics models are “data-limited,” i.e., one seldom knows enough about a rock mass to use computational models unambiguously. Statistical methods, however, are capable of being applied where there are good data but a limited understanding of certain natural phenomena, such as the creep of rock salt or elevated risk domains associated with violent failure of strata commonly referred to as coal bumps and coal bursts. Important to these evaluations are (1) having statistically valid data collected consistently and (2) incorporation of analytical calculations for quantifying geologic, mining and particularly geotechnical variables. By combining the strength of the statistical and analytical models, an improved “hybrid” model is created and utilized. To demonstrate the use of hybrid statistical-analytical techniques in rock mechanics problems, three case studies are used. The first case study involves a historic examination of a nuclear waste repository in rock salt, where mathematical models are built using excavation con- vergence data to identify significant variables and estimate future deformation and stability. This case study uses the convergence rate at up to 121 locations of different ages and geometries using monitoring data over the facilities' footprint excavated through 1998. The second case study focuses on ongoing analysis of coal burst mechanics and associated factors. Within the last three decades, a hybrid statistical-analytical methodology has been applied for identifying significant factors affecting coal bursts. This final hybrid model utilizes data from 30 case studies from Utah, Colorado, Kentucky, and other Eastern U.S. mines providing predictive capability for the entire United States coal fields. The last case study is the assessment of Castlegate Sandstone escarpment stability using historic data collected over 17,000-ft of sandstone escarpment exposure in the vicinity of longwall operations in Utah. Results from all three case studies are used for demonstrating the utility of the method in solving ground control problems.

Jun 25, 2024

Abraham E.M., 465 Adam K., 151, 203, 249 Agioutantis Z., 137, 389 Alley M.M., 301

Jan 1, 2007

By N/A

finally, but not least, the staff of Vaal Reefs Chemical Laboratory for their assistance and patience with the introduction of a new technology,

Jan 1, 1991

By W. White

The manuscript of this paper was not available for publication when the Proceedings went to press. Should the author elect, he may distribute copies at the time of the Symposium.

Jan 1, 1986

By Gordon P. Riddler

IMMM Reporting Code 2001 – Some Developments -General definition of a Competent Person -Rules of Conduct with Guidelines -Table of Generic Terms with Guidelines -More specific to non-metallic minerals -Word ‘ore’ is not used for reserve/resource categories -More definitive on Mineral Exploration Results

Jan 1, 2003

By Reno M. Tonsi, Bill Raley

Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems are important tools in providing more efficient and profitable operations for the mining industry. This paper touches on the different types of equipment used in SCADA applications and discusses the benefits obtained in using Programmable Logic Controllers in this application.

Jan 1, 1989

By K. M. Kolin

ABSTRACT OF ORAL PRESENTATION A discussion of current U. S. Bureau of Mines research into the problem of strata control in multiple Western coal seams will be presented. The problem and research priorities will be described as determined from interviews with major Colorado and Utah mine operators as well as governmental agencies responsible for Federal leases. Proposed contract research and ongoing in-house studies will be discussed, including case histories and results from projects being conducted at two multiple seam operations in Utah.

Jan 1, 1977

By Georgy Cherkashov

The geological setting, morphology and physical properties of massive sulfide deposits must be taken into account when designing the underwater systems being currently constructed for mining of this type of marine minerals. Based on more than 20 years experience of hydrothermal mineralization studies in the northern equatorial part of the Mid Atlantic Ridge (MAR) we have provided the following conclusions:

Jan 1, 2008

By A. Athousaki

The Ecological Footprint is a resource accounting tool used to address underlying sustainability questions. Aggregates consist of natural, artificial or recycled materials. The production of aggregates is the fastest growing activity worldwide since huge quantities are required by the construction industry. This paper presents a parametric investigation of the ecological footprint of transporting aggregates for urban use as a function of tonnage and distance.

Jan 1, 2008

By A. Ferreira Morgado, P. de Souza Santos

The sodium smectitic clays (bentonites), have more industrial applications in that class of mineral, a driving force to obtain this mineral. In Brazil, there are several occurrences of smectitic clays, unfortunately they are polycationic, with a distribution of several exchangeable cations, where the cation sodium occurs in minor quantity. In this work, the original polycationic smectitic clay was firstly proper characterized and then treated with sodium carbonate obtaining homoionic sodium smectitic clay. The rheological tests in the optimized sodium smectitic clay showed good results for drilling fluids, typical of a sodium bentonite ones.

Jan 1, 1999

By G. W. Ford, S. E. Black

Current research into coal based synthetic fuels is taking place on two fronts, fuels for power generation and conversion of coal to ultra-clean fuels for transportation. Present research into solid synthetic fuels is concentrated on development of clean coal technology which will meet or exceed the proposed cap and trade emissions set forth in the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990. Research into ultra-clean liquid fuels is concentrated on either direct or indirect liquefaction process which could be used to manufacture both diesel fuels and gasoline.

Jan 1, 2003

By Deepak Malhotra

Western technology is considered a panacea for all ills in developing countries. Is that really the case? Are inventors of new technology overselling? What are the expectations of the receiving party? The author offers his views on these questions and proposes a process for systematic transfer of technology while minimizing surprises on the part of the seller and the receiver.

Jan 1, 2001

By J. G. Nalven, J. A. Sturgess

On July 1, 1999, most domestic metal mines will have to report releases of toxic chemicals into the environment for the first time as required by SARA Title 313. Some of these reportable releases will appear huge in relation to reports by other industries. The reasons for the potentially large reportable releases, special considerations for mining operations, and strategies for dealing with the reports are described. Data composited from experience with several mining companies is presented in the context of a typical goldmine.

Jan 1, 1999

By B. E. Zeigler

This bi-product from a nickel smelter has been manufactured over the last 30 years for the abrasive and roofing industries. This paper discusses a new development for this material a foundry aggregate used for molding sand in both ferrous and non ferrous casting industries. Test data, marketing strategies, manufacturing, and case studies will be presented from the first concept, to current production, marketing and the end use of this product.

Jan 1, 1999

By D. Forbes

The results of a fundamental study involving zeta-potential and turbidity determinations of solid suspensions are discussed. Illustrations of how these results are utilized to design field applications of solid-grade polymers to clarify mine-drainage water are presented. Operational and economical advantages are examined.

Jan 1, 1997

By Donald R. Lamont

The paper outlines the reasons for and research behind the recent decision to adopt oxygen decompression in the UK. Currently used measures of decompression illness are critically appraised. The paper describes the main precautions to be taken on site to manage the fire risk from the use of oxygen underground. A summary of the initial results from the use of oxygen decompression in the UK is presented.

Jan 1, 2003