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environmental monitoring of surface water pollution

Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2024-05-08
  • Date accepted
    2024-11-07
  • Date published
    2024-12-12

The effect of mechanical and thermal treatment on the characteristics of saponite-containing material

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Solving the problems of modern building materials science is reduced to obtaining high-quality materials, expanding and searching for a rational raw material base, which can be carried out through the use of various industrial wastes. In this paper, the possibility of using waste from the mining industry – saponite-containing material (SCM) obtained during the enrichment of kimberlite ores from the Lomonosov diamond deposit, as an active mineral additive for cement binders and concretes is considered. The influence of mechanical and thermal treatment on a number of properties of the material selected from the tailings dump and in its initial state was studied. The study of the surface activity of SCM samples consisted in determining the sorption capacity, acid-base centers and their distribution. An increase in the activity of the surface of the material particles as a result of mechanical activation and its decrease during temperature treatment were determined. These effects are associated with phase rearrangements and structural changes in the sandy-clay rock, which was confirmed during thermal analysis. The temperature effect has no pronounced effect on the microstructure, the “smoothness” of the particles and the formation of a consolidated surface of the structural elements of the saponite-containing material are noted.

How to cite: Orekhova T.N., Sivalneva M.N., Frolova M.A., Strokova V.V., Bondarenko D.O. The effect of mechanical and thermal treatment on the characteristics of saponite-containing material // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. p. EDN VZGFOR
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2022-03-01
  • Date accepted
    2024-06-03
  • Date published
    2024-12-25

Study of the possibility of using high mineralization water for hydraulic fracturing

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The results of laboratory studies aimed at developing hydraulic fracturing fluid based on alternative sources of high mineralization water are presented. It is shown that Cenomanian sources have the most stable mineralization parameters, while bottom water and mixed waters collected from pressure maintenance systems differ significantly in their properties, with iron content varying several times, and hardness and mineralization undergoing substantial changes. The quality of the examined hydraulic fracturing fluids based on alternative water sources is confirmed by their impact on residual permeability, as well as residual proppant pack conductivity and permeability. The experimental results show similar values for these parameters. The comprehensive laboratory studies confirm the potential for industrial use of high mineralization water in hydraulic fracturing operations.

How to cite: Sultanov S.K., Mukhametshin V.S., Stabinskas A.P., Veliev E.F., Churakov A.V. Study of the possibility of using high mineralization water for hydraulic fracturing // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 270. p. 950-962. EDN SLRNDJ
Economic Geology
  • Date submitted
    2023-11-15
  • Date accepted
    2024-09-24
  • Date published
    2024-12-25

Development and validation of an approach to the environmental and economic assessment of decarbonization projects in the oil and gas sector

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This article addresses the problem of selecting a priority decarbonization project for an oil and gas company aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The wide range of decarbonization options and assessment methods prompted the development of a comprehensive ranking system for project selection. This system incorporates both internal and external factors of project implementation, a two-stage algorithm that filters out unsuitable projects taking into account sustainable development goals, and a quantitative evaluation approach using absolute and relative indicators. The proposed system evaluates decarbonization projects by considering not only the reduction of emissions in both absolute and relative terms, but also the broader environmental, social, and economic aspects relevant to the oil and gas company and the national economy. It includes a ranking mechanism for identifying priority projects and integrates carbon regulation incentives and green taxonomy tools into the economic assessment for more precise comparative analysis. The quantitative assessment in absolute terms involves a specialized net present value calculation, which accounts for revenue from both carbon credit sales and the potential sale of new low-carbon products, if applicable. The proposed assessment provides for targeted analysis of specific performance indicators, such as the cost per unit of emissions reduced, tax and social security contributions per unit of emissions reduced, energy efficiency improvements, and other indicators used for additional assessments of projects under otherwise equal conditions.

How to cite: Sheveleva N.A. Development and validation of an approach to the environmental and economic assessment of decarbonization projects in the oil and gas sector // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 270. p. 1038-1055. EDN GAOTZW
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2022-10-04
  • Date accepted
    2024-03-05
  • Date published
    2024-08-26

Localization and involvement in development of residual recoverable reserves of a multilayer oil field

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During waterflooding of a multilayer oil field there is a constant deterioration of the structure and composition of residual reserves due to geological and technological reasons. The largest share of residual reserves is localized in pillars, which arise from uneven development of the production facility and are undrained or poorly drained zones. The results of a quantitative assessment of the distribution of residual oil reserves in the Middle and Upper Devonian deposits of the Romashkinskoe oil field of the Republic of Tatarstan are presented. A retrospective method is proposed to identify reserves by analyzing and summarizing historical exploration data and the long history of reservoir development, and a calculation algorithm is proposed to quantify them. It has been established that residual oil reserves are localized in rows of dividing and injection wells, as well as in the central rows of producing wells in a three-line drive, in abandoned and piezometric wells, in the areas adjacent to the zones of reservoir confluence, pinch-out, oil-bearing contours, distribution of reservoirs with deteriorated porosity and permeability properties. Depending on geological conditions, algorithms for selecting geological and technical measures to include localized reserves in development and forecasting production profiles were proposed. According to the proposed method, residual recoverable reserves were identified and a number of wells were recommended for experimental works on their additional recovery: in well 16 (hereinafter in the text, conventional well numbers are used) after isolation of overlying high-water-cut formations, the additional perforation was carried out and oil flow was obtained. Additional perforation in well 6 resulted in oil recovery during development as well. Thus, the developed approaches to identifying residual recoverable reserves and patterns of their spatial distribution can be recommended in other multilayer oil fields with a long history of development.

How to cite: Burkhanov R.N., Lutfullin A.A., Raupov I.R., Maksyutin A.V., Valiullin I.V., Farrakhov I.M., Shvydenko M.V. Localization and involvement in development of residual recoverable reserves of a multilayer oil field // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 268. p. 599-612. EDN DKXZSP
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2024-03-30
  • Date accepted
    2024-06-03
  • Date published
    2024-07-04

Preparation and use of complex titanium-containing coagulant from quartz-leucoxene concentrate

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The search for the new high-efficiency reagents for wastewater treatment is a challenging and urgent task. Titanium-containing coagulants represent a new trend in water treatment and have a much higher efficiency that the traditional aluminium and iron-containing coagulants. The high cost of reagents significantly hinders their implementation. Complex titanium-containing reagents are coagulants prepared by modifying the traditional coagulants by adding 2.5-10.0 wt.% titanium compounds. In this work, titanium tetrachloride prepared from quartz-leucoxene concentrate was prehydrolyzed with subsequent double decomposition with sulfuric acid. The resulting mixture of hydrochloric and sulfuric acids was neutralized with aluminium hydroxide/oxide to form a self-hardening mixture (chemical dehydration). The sample of a complex sulfate-chloride titanium-containing coagulant was a mixture of AlCl3·6H2O – 5-20 wt.%, Al2(SO4)3·18H2O – 70-90 wt.% and TiOSO4 – 2.5-10.0 wt.%. It was proved that by changing the ratio of aluminium oxide/hydroxide and titanium tetrachloride at the stage of prehydrolysis and double decomposition, it is possible to obtain samples of a complex coagulant with different contents of the modifying additive of titanium compounds. An assessment of the coagulation properties of the complex reagent demonstrated its higher efficiency in cold water compared to aluminium sulfate. Studies on the use of the complex titanium-containing coagulant in the process of wastewater treatment from phosphate anions and suspended matter demonstrated its higher efficiency as compared to that of traditional reagents. The advantages of the prepared reagent are a reduction in the effective dose of the reagent, minimization of residual concentrations of pollutants in purified water, intensification of the processes of sedimentation and filtration of coagulation sludge. Purified water can be reused in the recycling water supply system. The use of quartz-leucoxene concentrate and titanium tetrachloride obtained from it as the source material would not only minimize the cost of the resulting complex coagulant, but also take a step towards the implementation of the Zero Waste concept.

How to cite: Kuzin E.N. Preparation and use of complex titanium-containing coagulant from quartz-leucoxene concentrate // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 267. p. 413-420. EDN LQQWFL
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2024-01-31
  • Date accepted
    2024-06-03
  • Date published
    2024-07-04

Rationale for a possibility of using humic preparations production waste for wastewater purification from metals (Cd2+, Zn2+, Mg2+, Cu2+) aimed at developing efficient measures on environmental rehabilitation

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Results of studying optimal conditions and parameters for afterpurification of underspoil waters from metal ions using humic acids production waste are presented with a view to develop the efficient measures on environmental rehabilitation of ecosystems disturbed by the development of copper pyrite deposits. The influence of contact time and waste dosage on the purification process was analysed, changes in the pH of wastewater and its impact on the growth and development of plants were studied. The key factors were identified allowing to achieve the efficiency of the purification process – the optimal contact time in the range from 120 to 180 min and waste dosage of 10 g/l. The study showed that the use of waste resulted in a neutral pH value of 7.03 compared to the initial pH value of 5.95. It was ascertained that the use of iron-magnesium production waste in combination with waste from humic preparations production made it possible to achieve the MPC of commercial fishing importance (with the exception of magnesium). Wastewater after the afterpurification process with high magnesium concentrations did not have a stimulating effect on the growth and development of Lepidium sativum L. plants. From biotesting results it can also be stated that there is no negative impact on the growth and development of Lepidium sativum L. The results obtained indicate a potentiality of using afterpurified wastewater for watering plants in the process of initiating the environmental rehabilitation of the disturbed ecosystems.

How to cite: Antoninova N.Y., Sobenin A.V., Usmanov A.I., Gorbunov A.A. Rationale for a possibility of using humic preparations production waste for wastewater purification from metals (Cd2+, Zn2+, Mg2+, Cu2+) aimed at developing efficient measures on environmental rehabilitation // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 267. p. 421-432. EDN NYTBJH
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2024-05-02
  • Date accepted
    2024-06-03
  • Date published
    2024-07-04

Iron ore tailings as a raw material for Fe-Al coagulant production

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The paper presents the results of experimental research into the recovery of Fe-Al coagulant from iron ore tailings (IOTs). The variables investigated in the laboratory tests included sulphuric acid concentration, temperature, leaching time, solid/liquid phase ratio (S:L) and the presence of stirring. The experiment determined the composition of the coagulant and the solid residue after leaching. The maximum iron content in the solution after leaching was obtained using 40 % H2SO4 at a temperature of 100 °C (or with stirring at 75 °C) and a contact time of 60 minutes. In this case, the iron yield was at the level of 25 % of the total content in the iron ore tailings. Chemical analysis of the solution obtained after leaching showed Fe and Al sulphate contents of 11 and 2 % respectively. In the next step, the efficiency of the coagulant was evaluated on model solutions of colour. The experimental results showed that the coagulant obtained from the iron ore tailings can be used for wastewater treatment in a wide pH range from 4 to 12 pH units. The solid residue after leaching is a fine-grained powder rich in silica, which can potentially be used as an artificial raw material in the construction industry. The research carried out in this thesis has shown that the extraction of coagulants from iron ore tailings can be considered as a way to extend the production chain of iron ore mining and to minimise the amount of tailings to be stored in tailing ponds. The technical solution presented in this work allows to comprehensively solve the problem of environmental protection by creating new target products for wastewater treatment from IOTs.

How to cite: Matveeva V.A., Chukaeva M.A., Semenova A.I. Iron ore tailings as a raw material for Fe-Al coagulant production // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 267. p. 433-443. EDN ASOYNX
Editorial
  • Date submitted
    2024-07-04
  • Date accepted
    2024-07-04
  • Date published
    2024-07-04

Environmental safety and sustainable development: new approaches to wastewater treatment

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In 2015, the UN member states adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Despite significant progress, billions of people – one in three people – do not have access to safe, clean drinking water. Modern wastewater treatment methods include a wide range of biological, chemical and physical processes, each having its own advantages and applications. This thematic volume considers the latest achievements in wastewater treatment technologies, wastewater purification and treatment as well as their potential applications at the local level. The problem of surface water pollution is relevant for all regions of the world. One of the largest sources of pollutants is mining and processing industry. The first stage in the development of wastewater treatment technologies is monitoring of anthropogenically modified water bodies.

How to cite: Pashkevich M.A., Danilov A.S., Matveeva V.A. Environmental safety and sustainable development: new approaches to wastewater treatment // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 267. p. 341-342.
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2024-03-07
  • Date accepted
    2024-06-14
  • Date published
    2024-07-04

Anomaly detection in wastewater treatment process for cyber resilience risks evaluation

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Timely detection and prevention of violations in the technological process of wastewater treatment caused by threats of different nature is a highly relevant research problem. Modern systems are equipped with a large number of technological sensors. Data from these sensors can be used to detect anomalies in the technological process. Their timely detection, prediction and processing ensures the continuity and fault tolerance of the technological process. The aim of the research is to improve the accuracy of detection of such anomalies. We propose a methodology for the identification and subsequent assessment of cyber resilience risks of the wastewater treatment process, which includes the distinctive procedure of training dataset generation and the anomaly detection based on deep learning methods. The availability of training datasets is a necessary condition for the efficient application of the proposed technology. A distinctive feature of the anomaly detection approach is a new method of processing input sensor data, which allows the use of computationally efficient analytical models with high accuracy of anomaly detection, and outperforms the efficiency of previously published methods.

How to cite: Novikova E.S., Fedorchenko E.V., Bukhtiyarov M.A., Saenko I.B. Anomaly detection in wastewater treatment process for cyber resilience risks evaluation // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 267. p. 488-500. EDN TBPPHN
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2024-03-29
  • Date accepted
    2024-06-03
  • Date published
    2024-07-04

Potential use of water treatment sludge for the reclamation of small-capacity sludge collectors

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In small settlements, collectors for the sludge produced during water treatment processes are small-sized and located in the vicinity of drinking water storage reservoirs or in coastal areas. Sludge removal is not economical. Besides, the relief depressions formed after sludge disposal are required to be reclaimed. In ore mining regions, where the main settlements of the Urals are located, sludge produced in water treatment has high contents of heavy metals typical of ore mining provinces. Consequently, places of sludge accumulation are potential sources of water pollution. The article discusses the possibility to mix sludge with slaked lime and local overburden with the help of special equipment. So far water treatment sludge in the region has been used to reclaim the surface of solid waste landfills by creating anaerobic conditions for waste decomposition. When placed inside the embankment dams as an independent object, sludge needs to be improved for the increase of its bearing capacity and the ability to bind heavy metals. The article aims at the substantiation of the composition and properties of the reclamation material made of the water treatment sludge mixed with local overburden and slaked lime (technosoil). For this reason the paper describes the composition of the sludge in a sludge collector, the composition and properties of the overburden rocks as a component of the mixtures with water treatment sludge, the composition and properties of the mixtures of water treatment sludge with overburden rocks and Ca(OH)2 as a component dewatering sludge and neutralizing toxicants. Furthermore, the research work provides the technology created for the optimal processing of the water treatment sludge in the process of the reclamation of a sludge collector. The research results and the experience obtained in reclamation of disturbed lands in the region have confirmed the possible use of technosoil for the reclamation of small-capacity sludge collectors. The analysis of the chemical composition and physical and mechanical properties of the mixtures under study has shown that the most economical and environmentally sound reclamation material is a mixture of water treatment sludge, loose overburden dump soils and Ca(OH)2 in a ratio of 60 : 30 : 10 %.

How to cite: Guman O.M., Antonova I.A. Potential use of water treatment sludge for the reclamation of small-capacity sludge collectors // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 267. p. 466-476. EDN MSIDNU
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2024-04-09
  • Date accepted
    2024-06-03
  • Date published
    2024-07-04

Analysis of the geochemical barriers effectiveness as the basis for the use of nature-like water purification technologies

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Nature-like technologies are being introduced into many human activities including mining wastewater treatment. This work is based on long-term studies of the Sibay copper-zinc-pyrite deposit development. It is dedicated to assessment of geochemical barriers effectiveness in Cu, Zn, Cd removal from water of the Karagayly River (receiving quarry and dump drainage water). The research is based on the elements’ content and forms in water and bottom sediments, pH values etc. Four types of hydrogeochemical environment (formed due to changes in the water use over the past 20 years) were distinguished using discriminant analysis. The mechanisms of barriers formation and destruction were described. Statistical modeling of the metals’ precipitation was performed by multivariate regression analysis. Cu is adsorbed by recently formed Fe hydroxides, and, to a lesser extent, precipitates with sulfates as water pH increases. Antagonism to Mn hydroxides has been demonstrated, due to different physicochemical conditions for their precipitation. Zn enters solid phase mainly with sulfates, this element also forms its own mineral phases. The second mechanism is adsorption by recently formed Mn hydroxides, which corresponds to the idea of similar conditions for the precipitation of metal hydroxides. Cd behavior reflects conditions intermediate between these of Cu and Zn. Contribution of both mechanisms (related to Fe hydroxides and aqueous sulfates) is equal. Antagonism to Mn is absent. According to the assessment results using of nature-like technologies in situ in watercourses, canals and other water drainage systems is promising. Developed statistical models can be used for needs of experimental studies and artificial geochemical barriers engineering.

How to cite: Opekunov A.Y., Korshunova D.V., Opekunova M.G., Somov V.V., Akulov D.A. Analysis of the geochemical barriers effectiveness as the basis for the use of nature-like water purification technologies // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 267. p. 343-355. EDN KKNLQG
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2024-04-22
  • Date accepted
    2024-06-13
  • Date published
    2024-07-04

Comprehensive utilization of urban wastewater sludge with production of technogenic soil

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The article presents the analysis of the existing approach to wastewater sludge treatment and justifies the selection of the most promising management technology that allows maximum use of wastewater sludge resource po-tential. To obtain a useful product (biocompost) suitable for use as part of technogenic soil, experimental studies of aerobic stabilization of organic matter of dehydrated urban wastewater sludge with the addition of other waste by using passive composting technology were carried out. The technology is included in the list of best available technologies (BAT). The selection of the most optimal components for the mixture was based on the results of determining the C and N content, humidity and pH of the components used that ensured the composting of organic waste. The results of laboratory studies of the obtained biocompost according to the main agrochemical and sanitary-epidemiological indicators are presented. Testing was carried out according to the criterion of toxicity of the biocompost’s aqueous extract. The assessment of the technogenic soil was performed when using biocompost in its composition for compliance with existing hygienic requirements for soil quality in the Russian Federation. Based on the results of the vegetation experiment, optimal formulations of the technogenic soil were determined, i.e., the ratio of biocompost and sand, under which the most favorable conditions for plant growth are observed according to a combination of factors such as the number of germinated seeds, the maximum height of plants and the amount of biomass. The conducted research makes it possible to increase the proportion of recycled urban wastewater sludge in the future to obtain soils characterized by a high degree of nutrient availability for plants and potentially suitable for use in landscaping, the biological stage of reclamation of technogenically disturbed lands, as well as for growing herbaceous plants in open and protected soil.

How to cite: Bykova M.V., Malyukhin D.M., Nagornov D.O., Duka A.A. Comprehensive utilization of urban wastewater sludge with production of technogenic soil // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 267. p. 453-465. EDN IAYJKS
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2024-04-25
  • Date accepted
    2024-06-13
  • Date published
    2024-07-11

Evaluation of the effectiveness of neutralization and purification of acidic waters from metals with ash when using alternative fuels from municipal waste

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The problem of pollution of natural water objects with heavy metals is extremely relevant for the areas where industrial enterprises are located. Unauthorized discharge of contaminated wastewater, inefficient operation of sewage treatment plants, as well as leakage of drainage waters from man-made massifs lead to changes in the hydrological system affecting living objects. The article studies the composition of ash from the combustion of alternative fuels from municipal waste, and also considers the possibility of using it to neutralize sulfuric acid drainage waters and extract metal ions (Cu, Cd, Fe, Mn, Zn) from them. It has been established that the efficiency of water purification from metals depends on the pH value achieved during the purification process. The pH value is regulated by the dose of the introduced ash, the contact time and depends on the initial concentration of metal ions and sulfates in the solution. Studies on the neutralization and purification of a model solution of sulfuric acid drainage waters of a tailings farm of known composition have shown that in order to achieve a pH of 8-9, optimal for precipitation of metal hydroxides Cu, Cd, Fe, Mn, Zn and Al washed out of ash, and water purification with an efficiency of 96.60 to 99.99 %, it is necessary to add 15 g/l of ash and stir the suspension continuously for 35 minutes. It was revealed that exposure to ash with sulfuric acid waters leads to the transition of water-soluble forms of metals into insoluble ones and their “cementation” with calcium sulfate. The amount of Zn and Fe ions washed out of the ash decreases by 82 and 77 %, Al, Cd, Cu, Mn – by 25 %. This reduces the toxicity of ash, which is proved by a decrease in the toxic multiplicity of dilution of the water extract by 14 times.

How to cite: Kharko P.A., Danilov A.S. Evaluation of the effectiveness of neutralization and purification of acidic waters from metals with ash when using alternative fuels from municipal waste // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. p. EDN CGGRHJ
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2024-01-31
  • Date accepted
    2024-05-02
  • Date published
    2024-12-25

Evaluation of the effectiveness of water dust-suppressing emulsions based on acrylic and alkyd polymers

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Currently, the use of special dust-suppressing reagents is promising to reduce the level of dust in the vicinity and on the territories of pits, mining and processing plants and other facilities with a high content of fine dust. The analysis of ways to reduce the dust-forming ability of inorganic dispersions with a high degree of dusting is carried out. Due to the lack of regulatory and technical documentation devoted to the standardization of quality control methods for dust-suppressing compounds, it becomes necessary to analyze existing parameters and methods for their determination in order to develop mandatory methods for controlling the properties of dust-suppressing compounds, films formed by them and consolidated systems. The study is devoted to substantiating the necessary methods for assessing the dust-forming ability of inorganic dispersions after treatment with various dust suppressants and evaluating their effectiveness. The parameters are considered and methods for quantifying the determination of the quality of the consolidated layer of dust samples using different dust-suppressing compositions are described. As a result of the analysis of the set of parameter values, it was found that the most resistant to the effects of negative factors due to the formation of a denser and more durable polymer matrix mesh are dusting surface samples treated with an emulsion of alkyd glypthalic resin on a water basis with a high agglomerating effect on particles of inorganic dispersion and the formation of a consolidated layer with a wetting angle of 92.5° and a compressive strength 0.56 MPa.

How to cite: Strokova V.V., Ryazanova A.Y., Markova I.Y., Stepanenko M.A., Ishmukhametov E.M. Evaluation of the effectiveness of water dust-suppressing emulsions based on acrylic and alkyd polymers // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 270. p. 941-949. EDN EHHKHL
Geology
  • Date submitted
    2023-07-07
  • Date accepted
    2023-12-27
  • Date published
    2024-12-25

A new insight into recording the mineral composition of carbonate reservoirs at well killing: experimental studies

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Well killing operation remains an important technological stage before well workover or servicing, during which filtrate penetrates the bottomhole area of the formation. The impact of process fluids and their filtrate on rock has a significant influence on permeability and porosity of carbonate reservoirs, which decrease due to fines migration. There are few known scientific studies of the interaction of killing fluid filtrate with carbonate rock and fines migration. In our experiments, an aqueous phase was used which is the basis for well killing in pure form, for the preparation of blocking agents and is used in reservoir pressure maintenance system. Core samples taken from the pay of the reservoir were used to simulate the well killing process with generation of reservoir thermobaric conditions. Killing fluid filtrate was kept for seven days, which characterizes the average workover time at flowing wells in the fields of the Perm Territory. Using micro-X-ray tomography and scanning electron microscope, images were obtained before and after the experiment, which allowed confirming a decrease in total number of voids due to fines migration and, as a consequence, a decreasing permeability of samples. Measurement of pH and fines concentration in the aqueous phase was performed before and after the experiment and pointed to mineral reactions occurring as a result of rock dissolution. The results of experiments made it possible to record a decrease in permeability of carbonate samples by an average of 50 % due to clogging of void space and migration of fines (clayey and non-clayey).

How to cite: Chernykh V.I., Martyushev D.A., Ponomareva I.N. A new insight into recording the mineral composition of carbonate reservoirs at well killing: experimental studies // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 270. p. 893-903. EDN QOALPE
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2023-11-27
  • Date accepted
    2023-12-27
  • Date published
    2024-02-29

Physico-chemical aspects and carbon footprint of hydrogen production from water and hydrocarbons

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Physico-chemical aspects determine the efficiency and competitiveness of hydrogen production technologies. The indicator of water consumption is especially relevant, since water is one of the main sources of hydrogen in almost all methods of its production. The article analyzes comparative water consumption indicators for various technologies based on published research and actual data from production plants. The volume of water consumption depends on the quality of the source water, which should be taken into account when implementing hydrogen projects in order to minimize the negative impact on the environment. Based on the operating industrial plant, the material balance of hydrogen production by steam reforming was demonstrated, which made it possible to determine the proportion of hydrogen (48.88 %) obtained from water. Currently, the carbon footprint indicator is becoming more important, reflecting greenhouse gas emissions throughout the production chain. According to the results of the total greenhouse gas emissions assessment for hydrogen production by steam reforming (about 10.03 kg CO2-eq/kg H2), the carbon footprint of hydrogen from water (4.2-4.5 kg CO2-eq/kg H2) and hydrogen from methane (15.4-15.7 kg CO2-eq/kg H2) has been determined. Consequently, almost half of the hydrogen produced by steam reforming is produced from water, corresponds to the indicators of “low-carbon” hydrogen and can be considered as “renewable” hydrogen. To make management decisions, an objective assessment in terms of energy and water costs is necessary based on a system analysis by the development of hydrogen energy and the growth of global hydrogen production. The impact of these indicators on the water cycle and global water resources will increase.

How to cite: Maksimov A.L., Ishkov A.G., Pimenov A.A., Romanov K.V., Mikhailov A.M., Koloshkin E.A. Physico-chemical aspects and carbon footprint of hydrogen production from water and hydrocarbons // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 265. p. 87-94. EDN HWCPDC
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2023-04-13
  • Date accepted
    2023-10-25
  • Date published
    2025-02-25

Assessment of the ecological state of aquatic ecosystems by studying lake bottom sediments

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The article presents the results of coupled palynological and geochemical studies of five various genesis lakes, located along the route of the expedition “In the footsteps of Alexander von Humboldt in Siberia, Altai and Eastern Kazakhstan”, dedicated to the double anniversary: the 190th anniversary of the expedition across Russia of the famous scientist and his 250th birthday. A geochemical analysis of water and bottom sediments of Ik Lake (Siberia), Lakes Kolyvanskoe and Beloe (Altai), Lake Bezymyannoe (Kazakhstan) and Nagornyi Pond (Altai) was carried out. Based on their results an assessment of studied lakes ecological state was given through single and integral criteria. A high level of pollution was noted for Nagornyi Pond and Lake Bezymyannoe, which is caused by a significant technogenic load from nearby mines. This is consistent with the data of palynological research. The aquatic ecosystems of Lakes Kolyvanskoe and Beloe are characterized by a satisfactory ecological situation, but they experience an increased recreational load. The results of spore-pollen analysis and analysis of non-pollen palynomorphs showed the low ability of these lakes to self-healing. The most favorable ecological state and high self-cleaning capacity were noted for Lake Ik, which is consistent with the data of palynological studies. It is being confirmed with the results of palynological studies. It was therefore concluded about the ability to make a quick assessment of the aquatic ecosystems’ ecological state by studying lakes using coupled palynological and geochemical analysis.

How to cite: Chukaeva M.A., Sapelko T.V. Assessment of the ecological state of aquatic ecosystems by studying lake bottom sediments // Journal of Mining Institute. 2025. Vol. 271. p. 53-62. EDN IXRSRC
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2021-02-09
  • Date accepted
    2023-09-20
  • Date published
    2024-02-29

Analysis of experience in the use of preformed particle polymer gels in the development of high-water-cut production facilities in low-temperature oil reservoirs

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Foreign practice of oil production in high-water-cut conditions suggests using the technology of injection of preformed particle gel (PPG) suspension into injection wells. After swelling, the polymer particles become elastic and are able to penetrate through highly permeable watered intervals into the remote reservoir zone, forming a polymer “plug”. Thus far, the domestic experience of application of this technology boiled down to testing foreign compounds. We have looked into the possibilities of PPG technology application in geological and technological conditions of high-water-cut fields of Perm Krai. The paper proposes PPG reagents effective in low-temperature reservoirs (20-35 °С) and at relatively high salinity of formation water (more than 200 g/l). The world experience of PPG technology application was analyzed to identify the principal scheme of reagent injection, to establish variants of sequence of injection of PPG particles of different sizes, as well as the possibility of regulating the morphological characteristics of polymer gel particles during synthesis depending on the porosity and permeability of the reservoir. A prerequisite for the technology is the ability to remove PPG particles after treatment from the bottom-hole zone of the formation; for this purpose, tests were carried out on a breaker compound based on sodium persulfate with synergizing additives. PPG technology is effective in reservoirs with high permeability heterogeneity. Two types of high-water-cut production facilities potentially promising for PPG realization have been identified for oil fields of Perm Krai. The first type includes carbonate Tournaisian-Famennian reservoirs with pronounced macrofracturing, in which the PPGs are used for colmatation of flushed large fractures. The second type is terrigenous Visean deposits with increased oil viscosity from 5 to 100 mPa∙s and high permeability of reservoirs (> 0.5 μm2). For both types of reservoirs, areas have been selected that are promising for the implementation of PPG technology.

How to cite: Galkin S.V., Rozhkova Y.A. Analysis of experience in the use of preformed particle polymer gels in the development of high-water-cut production facilities in low-temperature oil reservoirs // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 265. p. 55-64. EDN CNCFIW
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2023-04-11
  • Date accepted
    2023-10-25
  • Date published
    2024-07-04

Acid mine water treatment using neutralizer with adsorbent material

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One of the biggest issues in the mining sector is due to acid mine drainage, especially in those abandoned mining operations and active ones that fail to adequately control the quality of their water discharge. The removal degree of copper, iron, lead, and zinc dissolved metals in acid mine drainage was investigated by applying different proportions of mixtures based on neutralizing reagent hydrated lime at 67 % calcium oxide (CaO), with adsorbent material – natural sodium bentonite, compared to the application of neutralizing reagent without mixing, commonly used in the neutralization of acid mining drainage. The obtained results show that the removal degree of dissolved metals in acid mine drainage when treated with a mixture of neutralizing reagent and adsorbent material in a certain proportion, reaches discharge quality, complying with the environmental standard (Maximum Permissible Limit), at a lower pH than when neutralizing material is applied without mixing, registering a net decrease in the consumption unit of neutralizing agent express on 1 kg/m3 of acid mine drainage. Furthermore, the sludge produced in the treatment with a mixture of the neutralizing reagent with adsorbent material has better characteristics than common sludge without bentonite, since it is more suitable for use as cover material, reducing the surface infiltration degree of water into the applied deposit.

How to cite: Tumialán P.E., Martinez N.T., Hinostroza C.B., Arana Ruedas D.P.R. Acid mine water treatment using neutralizer with adsorbent material // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 267. p. 381-387. EDN HWRBRB
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2023-03-20
  • Date accepted
    2023-09-20
  • Date published
    2023-10-27

Experimental simulation of a system of swamp biogeocenoses to improve the efficiency of quarry water treatment

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Mining activities were producing large quantities of wastewater contaminated with nitrogen compounds and metals. With insufficient treatment, these pollutants are released into the environment and have a toxic effect on living organisms. Constructed wetlands are now widely adopted as wastewater treatment systems because of the combination of physical, chemical and biological processes for the removal of contaminants. In this study, an experimental system was modeled to improve the efficiency of the quarry wastewater treatment of a mining enterprise by sharing the higher aquatic vegetation: broad-leaved cattail (Typha latifolia L.), common water-plantain (Alisma plantago-aquatica L.), jointed rush (Juncus articulatus L.) and lower aquatic vegetation (Chlorella sp.). Concentrations of nitrogen compounds and metal were analyzed both in the model and in the treated solution of quarry wastewater for calculation of treatment efficiency. Concentrations of the pollutants in the tissues of the higher aquatic vegetation were analyzed to assess the accumulation capacity and efficiency of translocation of the pollutants. The results of the experimental study showed the practical applicability of the constructed integrated treatment system to reduce the concentration of pollutants in quarry wastewater, as well as increasing the efficiency of treatment by introducing lower aquatic vegetation into the system

How to cite: Pashkevich M.A., Korotaeva A.E., Matveeva V.A. Experimental simulation of a system of swamp biogeocenoses to improve the efficiency of quarry water treatment // Journal of Mining Institute. 2023. Vol. 263. p. 785-794. EDN QJYDIH
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2023-04-11
  • Date accepted
    2023-09-20
  • Date published
    2023-10-27

Current state of above-ground and underground structures of the Alexander Column: an integral basis for its stability

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The Alexander Column as a compositional center of the architectural ensemble of Palace Square in Saint Petersburg, Russia, has always been a matter of concern for both the public and specialists due to progressive deterioration of its granite shaft caused by crack formation. The article examines previous studies related to the inspection and restoration of the column's shaft and other parts above ground level, as well as reasons for crack initiation and propagation in the column. An analysis was performed on the anomalies in the Fennoscandian Shield and the structural-tectonic conditions at the Montferrand quarry site, revealing the presence of faults and circular features within the studied area. The research considers N.Hast's measurements of excess tectonic stresses in anomaly zones (southeastern Finland), which acted horizontally and resulted in the development of tensile cracks within the granite massif and later in the column’s shaft after its installation. The most dangerous type of deformation for the Alexander Column is its tilt in the northeast direction, recorded in 1937 and 2000. The article analyzes the construction features of the column's foundations and additional underground elements, as well as soil and groundwater characteristics based on archival data. The contamination history of the underground space is taken into account, and an analogy-based method is used to assess the engineering-geological and hydrogeological conditions of the underground load-bearing structures within the placement zone of the Alexander Column and the New Hermitage buildings. The results of visual observations on the nature of deterioration and deformation of the pavement around the monument, as well as its pedestal, indicating the development of uneven settlement of the foundation, are presented. The article concludes with general recommendations for organizing and implementing comprehensive monitoring to forecast the deformation dynamics of the Alexander Column.

How to cite: Dashko R.E., Karpenko A.G. Current state of above-ground and underground structures of the Alexander Column: an integral basis for its stability // Journal of Mining Institute. 2023. Vol. 263. p. 757-773. EDN OSYEHQ
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2023-07-04
  • Date accepted
    2023-09-20
  • Date published
    2023-10-27

Structure maintenance experience and the need to control the soils thermal regime in permafrost areas

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The risks of reducing the stability of buildings and structures are increasing in conditions of climate change and the active development of the territories under the influence of natural and anthropogenic factors. The main causes include: loss of the bearing capacity of frozen soils, various geocryological processes, errors at the stages of design, construction and operation of facilities. Main actual task when conducting research and industrial operations in the cryolithozone is monitoring and, if necessary, managing thermal processes in the permafrost layers interacting with facilities. In this article the obtained positive experience of various technologies applying at various stages of the life cycle of civil and industrial facilities was analyzed. It helps to eliminate or prevent the structure deformation or destruction under the influence of climate change. The methods of permafrost stabilization used in the oil and gas industry in process of industrial infrastructure development of the fields have been studied – freezing (cooling) of foundation soils during construction on heterogeneous foundations. The solution to the problems of minimizing accidents when locating production wells in the permafrost zone of the Yamal Peninsula is considered using the example of an oil and gas condensate field and restoring of the temperature regime of perennial unfrozen soils in areas of valve units of main gas pipelines. An assessment of methods used to maintain the industrial and residential infrastructure within the northern municipalities that ensure the functioning of the fuel and energy complex of the Russian Federation in the Arctic was made. The systems of thermal stabilization in the foundations of buildings and industrial facilities built and operated on permafrost soils allow to fully use the high strength and low deformability of frozen grounds. It ensures the state's long-term plans of the industrial development in the Arctic.

How to cite: Brushkov A.V., Alekseev A.G., Badina S.V., Drozdov D.S., Dubrovin V.A., Zhdaneev O.V., Zheleznyak M.N., Melnikov V.P., Okunev S.N., Osokin A.B., Ostarkov N.A., Sadurtinov M.R., Sergeev D.O., Fedorov R.Y., Frolov K.N. Structure maintenance experience and the need to control the soils thermal regime in permafrost areas // Journal of Mining Institute. 2023. Vol. 263. p. 742-756. EDN IMQTQY
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2022-06-27
  • Date accepted
    2023-06-20
  • Date published
    2023-12-25

Analysis of the problems of high-quality drinking water extraction from underground water intakes on Vysotsky Island in the Vyborg district of the Leningrad region

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This article presents the results of drilling, experimental filtration work and laboratory studies aimed at assessing the resources and quality of groundwater in the licensed area of Vysotsky Island located in the Leningrad region, in the Gulf of Finland in accordance with the requirements of regulatory documents. Analysis of the results of hydrochemical studies and their comparison with data on water intakes in adjacent areas gives the right to conclude that it is possible to classify a hydrogeological unit as a different type of resource formation than those located in the surrounding areas. Groundwater in this area is confined to an unexplored deep fractured regional high-pressure zone. According to the received data, the explored water intake can be attributed to a unique groundwater deposit, which has an uncharacteristic composition of groundwater in the north of the Leningrad region, which may be due to the mixing of modern sediments and relict waters of the Baltic glacial lake. The stability of groundwater characteristics is confirmed by long-term monitoring.

How to cite: Nikishin V.V., Blinov P.A., Fedorov V.V., Nikishina E.K., Tokarev I.V. Analysis of the problems of high-quality drinking water extraction from underground water intakes on Vysotsky Island in the Vyborg district of the Leningrad region // Journal of Mining Institute. 2023. Vol. 264. p. 937-948. EDN ZGVJSR
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2022-05-17
  • Date accepted
    2023-04-03
  • Date published
    2024-02-29

Improvement of concentrate quality in flotation of low-rank coal

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Percentage of high-rank coal with low content of ash, moisture, and sulfur in total coal production output is low. Most of the produced coal has a low quality (lignite, bituminous coal: long-flame and fiery). Under increasing requirements for ecological cleanness of coal, the efficient use of coal products is only possible after improvement of their processing properties. The authors discuss the enhancement of flotation efficiency of low-rank coal using the mechanism of physisorption of a collecting agent in particle – bubble attachment. It is explained why the yield of concentrate with low ash content increases as a result of combination of collectors having different physical properties. It is shown that the surface activity of a heteropolar agent relative to the gas – liquid interface and the adsorption density of the agent govern its collecting properties. Based on the recovery – surface activity relationship, the correlation is found between the collecting activity of a chemical compound and the structure of its molecules. The combination of the collectors with different surface activity enables adjusting collectability and selectivity of the blend. The physisorption mechanism of collectors can be a framework for developing recommendations on modification of concentrate yield and ash content, and on selection of optimized ratios of surface activities of miscible collectors relative to the gas – liquid interface.

How to cite: Kondratev S.A., Khamzina T.A. Improvement of concentrate quality in flotation of low-rank coal // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 265. p. 65-77. EDN RJTNNI
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2022-09-30
  • Date accepted
    2023-04-03
  • Date published
    2024-02-29

Optimization of the location of a multilateral well in a thin oil rim, complicated by the presence of an extensive gas cap

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The specific share of the reserves of hard-to-recover hydrocarbon raw materials is steadily growing. The search for technologies to increase the hydrocarbon recovery factor is one of the most urgent tasks facing the oil and gas industry. One of the methods to expand the coverage of oil reserves and increase oil recovery is to use the technology of drilling multilateral wells with a fishbone trajectory. In the Russian Federation, the most branched well was drilled in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) at the Srednebotuobinskoye oil and gas condensate field. The main object of development is the Botuobinsky horizon (Bt reservoir). About 75 % of the geological reserves of the reservoir are concentrated in a thin oil rim with an average oil-saturated layer thickness of 10 m with an extensive gas cap. This circumstance is one of the main complicating factors in the development of the Srednebotuobinskoye oil and gas condensate field. For such complex wells, one of the most important design stages is to determine the optimal location of the fishbone well in an oil-saturated reservoir. The article shows the results of sector modeling in the conditions of the Srednebotuobinskoye field to determine the optimal location of multilateral wells using Tempest simulator.

How to cite: Тomskii К.О., Ivanova M.S. Optimization of the location of a multilateral well in a thin oil rim, complicated by the presence of an extensive gas cap // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 265. p. 140-146. EDN XOVEYF