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By D. Duvris

Health and safety issues are a very important aspect of mining activities. Although the application of scientific research and current technology shields workers from many dangerous aspects of mining, accidents do happen. Many companies and institutions worldwide have committed to a continuous effort to minimize such occurrences. In this study, the health and safety data pertaining to the Greek mining and quarrying industry for the last 3 decades are presented and critically evaluated with respect to number of workers, annual production, etc. Appropriate indices are also calculated regarding the incidence and frequency of accidents. Health and safety issues specific to mining in Greek are also discussed.

Jan 1, 2000

By Mike Ghassemi

It is clear that precise overground and under-ground mapping is an important factor for all designers. Due to rapid changes in underground construction, tunnel designers are increasingly in need of updating project information. This article explains the latest techniques for detecting under-ground utilities as well as underground mapping. Global Positioning System (GPS) is a very ac-curate and popular navigation and mapping system that has been used extensively above ground, but is not used for underground mapping as signals are not strong enough to pass through ground or water. Most underground techniques were developed for military applications during the first and second world wars. Later, the techniques became public. For example, ground penetrating radar was developed for the military in 1970 to be used for locating tunnels under the demilitarized zone between North and South Korea. Later, the same technique was used for detecting unexploded ordinance such as plastic land mines.

Jan 1, 2011

By Zhenzhong Bian, Ruiyang Zhang, Xiaofeng Zhong, Zhangxuan Ning, Yuanping Zhang, Jie Lu, Airan Zhang

This study addressed the separation and recovery of vanadium(IV), iron, and titanium from synthetic and real leach solutions of vanadium-bearing titanomagnetite using extractant P204 (di-(2-ethylhexyl) phosphate) and P507 (2-ethylhexyl hydrogen- 2-ethylhexyl phosphonate). Based on the speciation analysis of vanadium in sulfuric acid medium, the single-stage extraction efficiency of vanadium, iron, and titanium was 94.21%, 3.45%, and 5.32%, respectively, under the optimal extraction condition of P204-P507 concentration of 15% (v/v), P204 to P507 ratio of 3:1 (v/v), TBP (Tributyl phosphate) concentration of 5%, sulfonated kerosene concentration of 80%, initial pH of 1.8, contact time of 8 min, and phase ratio (O/A) of 2:1. By confirming the predictions of the McCabe-Thiele diagram, a five-stage countercurrent extraction was carried out and the desirable extraction efficiency for vanadium reached 98.13%. The maximum co-extraction coefficient and distribution ratio of vanadium were 2.58 and 26.23, respectively. The stripping efficiencies and concentrations of a vanadium-rich solution by three stages of countercurrent experiments with 20 vol.% sulfuric acid reached 99.14% and 0.58 g/L, respectively, while almost all of the titanium remained in the organic phase. The mechanism of synergistic extraction between hydrogen ions of P–O–H and VO2+ in acidic conditions was confirmed by ATR-FTIR spectroscopy and molecular structure derivation. Besides, the separated impurity ions ( Fe2+) after oxidation, precipitation, and roasting process form a qualified iron oxide pigment with a total iron content of 97.2%.

Apr 25, 2023

By Robert C. Bates

Published information discussing uranium mine radon daughter controls and related costs was examined and used to develop an estimated (projected) cost per ton for any level of control. Results show a clear power function increase of cost for conventional dilution ventilation as the annual exposure limit is lowered. Projections can be made using any assumed changes in consumer price index (CPI) and radon daughter working level months exposure limit. Bounds on the estimated costs are provided, and applicability of the final equation is discussed.

Jan 1, 1983

By R. W. Fedors, S. T. Green, F. T. Dodge, D. B. Walter

Spatial and temporal temperature variations in a high-level radioactive waste repository drift can give rise to moisture transport within the drift. Knowledge of this moisture transport may be important to assessing the potential for corrosion of all metallic components in the drift. The model presented here shows one approach to simulating evaporation, transport, and condensation of water in large underground openings using a framework based on computational fluid dynamics. Simulation results that explicitly model water and latent heat transport are presented.

Jan 1, 2004

As 1979 drew to a close, it was obvious that China would have another good year with output of most industrial products at 3-9% above levels attained in 1978. Most increases were registered on the basis of maximum utilization of existing capacities and nationalization of procedures and methods. There were also distinct improvements in the quality and variety of products. Coal output probably surpassed the 650-Mt level in 1979. Steel output was expected to reach the 35-Mt level, an increase of nearly 10% over 1978. Based on the vast amount of housing and road and project construction, cement production more than likely surpassed 70 Mt. The nonferrous base metal industries improved somewhat in 1978, but actual output levels in recent years may have been a little higher than previously estimated by the outside world. Stagnate world demand slowed growth in the "export metals" sector. Minerals like magnesite and talc were produced at tonnages much larger than previously thought, with gold also falling into this category. Sulfur and pyrite production are still short, although a big pyrite mine was being brought into production. Barite out-put was reportedly up and fluorspar output held its own. Westerners generally concede that difficulties in transportation and power supply are holding back mineral production. Throughout 1979, basic construction continued on the majority of projects started by the Chinese and those few foreign projects contracted before the adjustment of industrial priorities. Foreign Ventures Perspective The foreign connection looms large in China's plan for modernization. In effect, it is an extension of what China wants to do in terms of "walking on two legs"-that is, develop what can be done locally to the fullest extent, then rely on international technology to move into the bigger and more complicated projects. Foreign projects are designed to complement domestic projects rather than replace them. Many foreign projects were started or continued by the Chinese in 1979. Building the necessary infrastructure for the projects is usually a Chinese endeavor and requires Chinese technicians and money. In areas with a strong economic base, this activity proceeds without foreign aid. In other areas, added funds are requested. Foreign funds can come in many forms-equipment technology, low interest loans, equity capital, advance-of-funds on the basis of future delivery in kind, and joint venture money. The Chinese are exploring all these avenues, with the strategy of minimizing foreign exchange needs for individual projects. They feel very uncomfortable with high interest rates, even though interest can be treated as operating ex¬pense rather than capital expense. Then there's the question of rights. Will Chinese sovereignty be affected? Can foreigners own land, in addition

Jan 3, 1980

By John S. Brock

During 1964 and 1965 a mineral exploration program was carried out over an area of approximately 250 square miles, located in the Anvil-Vangorda Creek area of east central Yukon, 125 miles northwest of Whitehorse. The Vangorda deposit, a massive lead-zinc sulphide body discovered in 1953, was centred in the area proposed for exploration, a northwest trending belt located between the southwestern flank of the Anvil Range and Pelly River. Exploration for base metals in the remote Anvil area had previously been restricted by poor metal markets in the late 1950's. Regional geologic information was also limited except for publication of a scale 1 inch to 4 mile map by the Geological Survey of Canada in 1961. To effectively explore this area, a combination of geophysical and geochemical methods were essential due to extensive overburden cover varying in depth from a few feet to over 300 feet. (Figure (i) Key Map) Dynasty Explorations initiated the first comprehensive regional exploration program in the Anvil area, utilizing saturation prospecting methods employing geologic, geochemical and geophysical methods. The program involved an approach demanding continual modification of technical and physical logistics. After a total of 12 months of field work involving an expenditure of approximately $450,00, massive sulphides were discovered which subsequently proved to be an economic orebody. Thirteen properties had been acquired and explored. Ten separate geophysical anomalies had been outlined by a combination of magnetic, electric and gravimetric survey techniques of which five were tested by rotary drilling and two by diamond core drilling. The discovery of the Faro deposit was a direct result of this program.

Jan 1, 1971

By D. W. Olson

The estimated value of natural gemstones produced from U.S. deposits during 2004 was $12.9 million. This was a 3-percent increase from that of 2003. U.S. gemstone production included agates, amber, beryl, coral, garnet, jade, jasper, opal, pearl, quartz, sapphire, shell, topaz, tourmaline, turquoise and other gem materials. More than 60 varieties of gemstones have been produced commercially from U.S. mines. But commercial mining of gemstones has never been extensively undertaken in the United States. Most of the deposits have been relatively small compared with other mining operations. In the United States, much of the current gemstone mining is conducted by collectors, gem clubs and hobbyists rather than business organizations.

Jan 1, 2005

By J. C. Stankus

Many coal seams are associated with soft floor strata and during mine development if coal pillars are not properly designed, floor heave occurs and causes interruption of coal production. In the severe cases, the section or mine is abandoned. One of the methods for controlling floor heave is floor bolting. This paper describes the demonstration of floor bolting methods in a West Virginia coal mine. Three methods were used: (1) vertical full resin bolting, (2) floor truss bolting, and (3) floor truss bolting plus a floor cut at the center of the entry. The design of each method and the experimental results are discussed in detail.

Jan 1, 1993

By G. van Eck, H. Smit, L. Meyer

The Cook Islands (CI) possesses within its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) a massive field of polymetallic nodules representing one of the world’s largest undeveloped cobalt deposits, along with large quantities of other metals critical to achieving global energy transition targets. In February of 2022 the Seabed Minerals Authority (SBMA) of the CI granted Moana Minerals a license to conduct our nodule exploration program. This paper describes how Moana Minerals chose to approach conducting exploration activities, one of the greatest challenges to Deep Sea Mining (DSM) development and the securing of the social license to advance to eventual mining of the resources, in an unconventional manner. The remote location of the project poses logistical challenges in mobilizing to and operating in the region and is a significant cost driver. Historically, exploration campaigns mobilized large vessels from mainland Europe, the Americas, and Asia as this model works well when contemplating long duration and widely temporally spaced campaigns without the need to revisit. Moana Minerals, when considering these challenges determined a multi-year deep sea mining (DSM) exploration program conducted in such a remote location can be better optimized by the deployment of a smaller yet highly capable “exploration optimized” vessel that is dedicated to the task and is based full time in the Cook Islands. INTRODUCTION The paper describes the challenges of exploration in remote regions including the South Pacific, and how an unconventional consideration of the problem led to the solution. Completion of an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment begins with a detailed environmental scoping study, resource update sampling requirements, and engineering data and sample requirements, which identifies the exploration goals of the project and technology needed to accomplish those goals. The method walks the reader through vessel and technology selection, discusses the challenges of equipment selection considering size and capability, describes the final arrangement, and provides results from the initial exploration campaigns. We followed the project from conception through the shipyard conversion, mobilization, and initial operations in the Cook Islands. The result shows how a smaller vessel with limited budget makes a large impact on the exploration capabilities in the region while building public trust. The Anuanua Moana is the first dedicated deep sea minerals exploration vessel modified with a suite of technologies that allow it to compete technically with existing ships but operate locally in the smaller ports of the South Pacific. The unique combination of size and technical capability gives the Anuanua Moana advantages over other vessels. This paper shows the importance of the Anuanua Moana in the development of offshore exploration strategies in the emerging deep sea minerals space.

Feb 22, 2026

By M. E. Rossi, J. A. Bassan, J. B. Novillo

Sampling and geological models are the basis of recoverable resources models. They are pillars of mineral resources and reserves estimation, and what geostatistical methods for grade estimation should rely upon. The resource model is best estimated if geostatistical methods make good use of sound geologic models. Data collection from the original drill holes, including field procedures and the quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) of those samples are pillar one of a resource model. The second pillar of the model is the good use of the logged geological information, resulting robust geological interpretations, and the corresponding three-dimensional models of those interpretations. These models are partly subjective and mostly conditioned by the quality of logging and the geologist’s experience. They are also conditioned by the quality of the three-dimensional models built, regardless of the modeling method employed, traditional or implicit. Grade estimation is more commonly done by applying some geostatistical method and using the two basic sources of information, data and geologic model. Multiple stages are involved in this process, and in all of them there are uncertainties and risks that have to be dealt with. Knowledge, understanding, interpretation, and management of the model’s fundamentals are critical, given that they directly affect its accuracy and predictive quality. The mitigation of related risks allows for the creation of opportunities, generating value and reducing the project’s uncertainty. This paper discusses some of the key variables, uncertainties, and risks involved in the resource modeling process, illustrating with specific examples; discusses possible risk mitigation alternatives, and proposes best practices to avoid or mitigate those uncertainties. Emphasis is placed on taking advantage of technological advances without ignoring fundamentals. INTRODUCTION In the area of mineral resource estimation, one alarming trend that these authors have observed in the past 20 years or so is that the care and diligence in checking the work as it progresses has generally diminished. This is, perhaps, an unintended consequence of the availability of new technologies and tools that attempt simplify and speed up the work involved. This has led to a more casual attitude towards checks and balances that have to be in place at any given stage of the process before proceeding to subsequent stages, as best practices dictate. To some extent, some of these aspects are covered in international standards for resource estimates reporting (JORC, 2012; CIM, 2010). But these are broad, and do not specifically recommend best practices to a level of detail that would have an impact on certain aspects of the process. There are numerous references in the geology and mining journals and conferences that discuss the consequences of poor recoverable resource models (Baker and Giacomo, 1998; Vaughan, 1997).

Jan 1, 2019

By T. P. Meloy

A methodology is presented for the spreadsheet solution of processing networks performing separations with the methodology developed here a spreadsheet grid is used to represent networks with and without recycle loops. In this manner, network solutions are numerically approximated by spreadsheet grid solutions. The methodology was used to explore the ramification networks developed by the Chinese for tungsten and molybdenum processing. Non-linear stage transfer functions for two-component sharp separations can be used.

Jan 1, 1994

By Richard L. Profio

A practical analysis of the three basic elements of a mining shovel's productive capacity. Payload Speed Reliability Improved dipper fill factor is explored referring to the latest generation of wide dippers combined with higher "bank horsepower" capabilities of modern drive systems. Cycle time improvement is reviewed including overall attachment geometry and coordination of motions. A specific case study is detailed. Basic reliability of welded structures, machinery components, and electrical systems are related to operating costs. Three basic elements determine a mining shovel's long term productive capacity: 1) Average payload per cycle. 2) Average cycle time; and 3) Reliability. This paper deals with productivity gains that are possible with existing shovels as well as new equipment.

Jan 1, 1984

By J. A. Dos Santos

"INTRODUCTION Dramatic reduction in energy use and environmental impact can be achieved with sandwich belt high angle conveyors that serve as the vital link in any IPCC (In-pit Crushing and Conveying) system. These high angle conveyors are not new at all, but have not found wide use in IPCC systems where they can realize the greatest advantage. Reduced energy consumption and environmental impact, with IPCC systems, was already realized in the 1970s. With the bulk material haulage limited to conventional open trough conveyors the most direct path out of the open pit was precluded, requiring low angle spiral ramps and/or deep slots and/or tunnels through the high wall of the open pit. These excavations, to accommodate the low angle limitations, represented undesirable impact on cost and on the environment. Against this backdrop, a major study in 1979 sought to develop high angle conveying systems that could continuously haul the mined bulk material directly out of the pit, along the high wall – the shortest distance between the two end points. Between 1979 and 1982, that study developed sandwich belt high angle conveying systems that utilized all conventional conveyor equipment including smooth surfaced rubber belts that could be continuously scraped clean. These systems had all of the positive features of conventional conveyors but overcame the angle limitation. By hugging the bulk material between two belts, the material’s internal friction could be developed to facilitate conveying at any high angle up to 90 degrees (vertical). After an intense testing period (about one year) on the first large scale prototype system, commercialization began in 1983 with the installation of a 60 degree incline system at a western United States coal mine, elevating 2000 t/h of coal to a train load out system. It did not take a long period of scrutiny and acceptance before this high angle conveyor found use in the most rugged requirements of an IPCC system. This was only the second commercial sale, and after more than 150 commercial installations, it remains arguably the most significant high angle conveying system. In 1984, a copper mine in Serbia, already using pit perimeter crushing and conveying, decided to move their primary crusher deep into the pit and to use a sandwich belt high angle conveying system to elevate the ore continuously, directly out of the pit, along the high wall to the pit perimeter where it then transferred to a conventional conveyor for the remaining haul to the plant. The system had significant features including 2000mm wide belts that elevated 250mm coarse ore, at 4000 t/h, over six 15-meter high benches for a total 90 meters of net lift. The system was able to reduce the truck haulage fleet by ten 200 ton trucks realizing great cost savings, zero emissions to the air and greatly reduced traffic congestion in the pit. The system operated successfully until 2002 when the mine shut down. Many successful sandwich belt high angle conveyors followed with the current count of commercial installations at more than 150. Despite the great success with this system, its use has not been repeated as part of an IPCC system."

Jan 1, 2018

By Robert S. Shoemaker

The development of a metallurgical project is a business venture rather than a technical exercise, and its real objective is to obtain the maximum return on investment consistent with the limitations imposed by company policy and the requirements of society. Demand for profits is the driving force for technical advances and naturally leads to improvements in processes, equipment and plant designs. In the mineral dressing field there have been virtually no new processes developed since the introduction of flotation, and the steady erosion of profits by inflation has been offset only by increasing equipment size. Unfortunately, in recent years, plant designers have not always utilized the largest equipment or the opportunities for functional and economic design presented by the development of larger equipment. Lower cost plants can be developed providing that unrealistic restraints arising from the prejudice of past practices are avoided. As an illustration of this premise, three different approaches were taken toward the design of a clearly delineated but hypothetical copper concentrator of 20, 000 tons per day capacity. While the same flowsheet was used in each case, designs were produced for a conventional plant, an alternate using the largest available equipment, and a third scheme utilizing large equipment and the most functional design which could be developed, including features derived from many plants in many different industries. Capital costs were developed for the three separate designs based on a location in the southwestern United States. Ancillary facilities were identical in each case and included a mine truck shop, a maintenance shop, a general office, and a nominal starter dam for tailings disposal within 5000 feet of the plant. Water supply within 1000 feet of the plant, and power furnished to the property boundary has been assumed in each case. The flowsheet of the three plants is shown in Figure 1 and represents the treatment of a typical sulfide copper ore by three- stage crushing followed by single-stage ball milling. Concentration is by flotation roughing and scavenging followed by regrinding of the concentrates and two stages of cleaning.

Jan 1, 1971

By John Berney-Ficklin

Large scale grinding mills can reduce both capital and operating costs for concentrators. These mills can be effectively used, but they must be free from design and manufacturing deficiencies if they are to reach their full potential and avoid costly downtime. This paper presents the evolution of today's complex grinding mill specifications and discusses the most important items to look for when buying new equipment. It emphasizes the need to monitor specification requirements during design and manufacture. It also discusses the growing trend to have grinding mills fabricated in overseas plants, and the importance of recognizing this when preparing specifications.

Jan 1, 1987

"One of the major issues that the Rare Earth Elements Mining Industry has to deal with is the legislation vacuum that exists in many countries around the world. Among these, are countries which have long history and tradition in mining. In many cases the lack of direct legislation for REE mine management as well as for other potentially polluting industries can be a barrier to sustainable development. Moreover, the case of lax legislation in China has led to environmental pollution problems and extended smuggling of rare earth elements. This paper looks into the current regulatory status on the mining of REEs, identifies the loopholes and suggests some elements for a new global legislation framework for sustainable development in the REE mining industry. The setting of this regulatory framework will be in line with the present and future challenges of the rare earths market as well as with the policy strategies that are defined internationally. The aim of such a legislative framework will be to strengthen the global rare earth elements supply chain, appease social concerns and ensure the preservation and conservation of the environment. INTRODUCTION The general public received their first introduction to rare earth elements (REEs) in 2010, when the previously inconspicuous commodities became the subjects of front-page headlines. It was when China created a furore in global high-tech markets after imposing an embargo on Japan following a minor marine dispute (Barakos et al. 2015b). Soon enough the Chinese embargo was extended on REE export restrictions all over the world and thus aroused concerns to many countries over potential supply disruptions. The world had suddenly realized that these wonder materials underpin products that they care about. Governmental and industry executives, policymakers and material scientists voiced concerns and conducted numerous reports stating the situation and the risks of a supply crisis. The price spike of 2011 intensified the crisis and the public turmoil, yet the drama did not last for long as the prices declined significantly in 2012. Nevertheless, the world was nonplussed by the fact that China has the total control of the market with more or less the 90% of the global production. More potential entrants became interested, thus initiating an exploration boom during the recent years that has resulted in a significant increase in known global REE reserves that could have potentials for exploitation."

Jan 1, 2016

By Andrew T. Zador

The growing demand for energy combined with the need to protect and preserve the environment have become prime considerations in the design of efficient coal handling ports and their associated stockpiles. The transportation system is analogous to a connected chain which originates at the mines and terminates at steel mills or power plants, in which the port and the stockpile reserves are a vital link. Railroad transportation costs can be minimized by rapid discharge of the cars which, in turn, requires that an adequate stockpile system be available. Ocean transport costs can be minimized by having an efficient high capacity ship loading system and sufficient quantities of coal on hand -all of which also requires an efficient stockpile system to meet shipping demands. The connector between the two modes of transportation, therefore, is the port stockyard. It is here at the interface that optimization of land utilization and materials handling equipment results in a total transportation chain that can operate as a smooth efficient system. Multiple origins of coal require the simultaneous handling of large quantities of coal of many grades. Railroad transportation logistics often limit and define the incoming arrival patterns and limited rolling stock often require priority treatment for railroad operations. The physical limitations of prime ocean frontage require that coal stockpiles be built close to residential or industrial areas which entail strict environmental controls. Large capacity, enclosed coal stockpiles for ocean shipping have not yet been considered feasible but may be forthcoming in the near future. Several have been analyzed.

Jan 1, 1978

Spirals have become one of the most popular methods for treating fine coal. Unfortunately, spirals tend to produce an undesirably high specific gravity cut-point and often misplace significant amounts of coal and/or rock. In the present study, a process-engineering tool known as linear circuit analysis was used to identify problems with traditional spiral circuits and to suggest alternative configurations. These analyses indicate that a modified rougher-cleaner circuit incorporating a middlings recycle stream offers the best option for improving performance while maintaining a reasonable circulating load. In light of this finding, a full-scale test circuit was installed and evaluated at an existing preparation plant. Data obtained from the plant tests indicate that the new spiral circuit can simultaneously reduce cut-point and improve separation efficiency. Preliminary economic analyses show that the new circuit provides an attractive payback on the capital investment.

Jan 1, 1998

By K. N. Santini, J. M. Barker

The perlite industry in the United States continued to undergo rapid change and increased competition last year as it did in 2002. U.S. production in 2004 was 510 kt (562,000 st),an increase following five consecutive years of decline (Table 1). Perlite is exported to Canada and to the Pacific Rim. These partially offset imports. Perlite imports from Greece to the eastern and Gulf Coasts of the United States declined by about 22 percent after reaching a record 240 kt (264,000 st) in 2003.But their market remains protected by high rail rates from western U.S. plants. Minor imports of perlite persist by Termolita from Mexico.

Jan 1, 2005