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frozen sedimentary rocks

Geology
  • Date submitted
    2024-05-15
  • Date accepted
    2024-11-07
  • Date published
    2025-04-14

Metacarbonate rocks of the Paleoproterozoic Khapchan series (southeastern part of the Anabar Shield): mineral and chemical composition, metamorphic conditions

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The mineral composition of metacarbonate rocks (silicate marbles and carbonate-silicate rocks) of the Khapchan series (southeastern part of the Anabar Shield) was studied, and the PT (pressure and temperature)-parameters of their formation were established. Silicate marbles contain calcite, dolomite, forsterite, clinohumite, spinel, enstatite, diopside, pargasite, meionite, phlogopite, and feldspars. Carbonate-silicate rocks are composed of calcite, quartz, feldspars, diopside, grossular, marialite, and vesuvianite. Carbonate-silicate rocks are significantly enriched in SiO2, Al2O3, FeO, Na2O, K2O, TiO2 and contain less MgO, CaO than silicate marbles. A difference was revealed in PT-parameters determined for silicate marbles (temperatures 700-900 °C and pressure no more than 8 kbar) and for carbonate-silicate rocks (temperatures 680-820 °C, pressures 8-15 kbar). Silicate marbles have a primary sedimentary nature, as evidenced by their rare-element composition and the presence of fragments of host terrigenous rocks. There is no doubt about the primary sedimentary nature of carbonate-silicate rocks, which are very similar in REE distribution spectra and in rare-element composition to silicate marbles. A number of features indicate that metacarbonate rocks have undergone metasomatic alteration. Thus, in silicate marbles, reaction rims are observed around orthopyroxene, forsterite, potassium feldspar, as well as quartz veins bordered by accumulations of phlogopite, feldspars, and diopside. In carbonate-silicate rocks, the development of secondary marialite on potassium feldspar has been established; the rare-element composition of garnet may indicate its metasomatic origin.

How to cite: Akimova E.Y., Gusev N.I., Savelev A.D., Donchenko D.R. Metacarbonate rocks of the Paleoproterozoic Khapchan series (southeastern part of the Anabar Shield): mineral and chemical composition, metamorphic conditions // Journal of Mining Institute. 2025. p. EDN VKUFOP
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2023-12-07
  • Date accepted
    2024-11-07
  • Date published
    2025-04-07

Determination of the tangential component of cutting resistance during frozen sedimentary rock cutting using blocked, deeply blocked and cell cutting methods

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Due to the insufficient accuracy of existing studies of frozen sedimentary rock cutting process for practical calculations, the article solves the problem of determining the tangential component cutting resistance for blocked, deep blocked and cell cutting, which are currently the most commonly used methods in earthmoving equipment. The cutting tool and rock mass force interaction is considered from the point of view of the emerging stresses, which act on the separated chip element. The analytical dependences for determining the tangential component of cutting resistance were obtained. The numerical explanation of the choice of cell cutting in relation to blocked and deeply blocked cutting is given. For all three methods of cutting, under equal geometrical parameters of the cutting tool and the physical and mechanical properties of the frozen rock, the numerical value of the tangential component of cutting resistance is obtained. The comparison of the cutting resistance estimated values has shown that cell cutting requires relatively less energy and is preferred during the process of frozen sedimentary rock excavation. During field and laboratory investigations with the use of a multi-purpose cutting stand, a sufficient convergence of the analytical statements with the physics of frozen sedimentary rock cutting process was established. The results of the research allow a more reasonable approach to the adjustment of existing methods for determining the required tractive force and power for the drive of an excavation machine, and, therefore, to the actual efficiency and profitability of work.

How to cite: Shemyakin S.A., Shishkin E.A. Determination of the tangential component of cutting resistance during frozen sedimentary rock cutting using blocked, deeply blocked and cell cutting methods // Journal of Mining Institute. 2025. p. EDN FRCVVZ
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2024-05-17
  • Date accepted
    2025-01-28
  • Date published
    2025-03-27

Determination of impact hazard potential of rocks in the Norilsk Industrial Region

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The deeper the mineral deposits developments are, the worse the mining and geological conditions become. Significant growth of stress level in the rock mass contributes to possible manifestation of rock pressure in dynamic form. The resulting task of assessment of rock impact hazard is closely related to the task of obtaining more accurate results of compression tests of samples in rigid or servohydraulic test presses using graphs of their full deformation. This approach requires special expensive equipment, considerable time resources, and sufficient core material. Therefore, it is important to have an approach that allows to assess the propensity of rocks to brittle fracture with research methods simple enough not to result in the loss of quality and reliability of the obtained results. This paper presents the results of laboratory tests of rocks from the Norilsk Industrial Region to determine their tensile and compressive strengths. Test methods involved both domestic and foreign standards for determining the value of the brittleness coefficient. The impact hazard potential of rocks was determined using the Kaiser criterion. It is found that the tested lithological types (rich sulfide ores, hornblende, disseminated ores, and gabbro-dolerite rocks), with the exception of anhydrite, have a low impact hazard potential.

How to cite: Gospodarikov A.P., Zatsepin M.A., Kirkin A.P. Determination of impact hazard potential of rocks in the Norilsk Industrial Region // Journal of Mining Institute. 2025. p. EDN UOHOQP
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2024-04-22
  • Date accepted
    2024-09-24
  • Date published
    2024-11-12

On peculiarities of composition and properties of ancient hydrocarbon source rocks

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Precambrian rocks are widespread within all continents of the Earth; that said, sedimentary associations of these deposits are of special interest in search for oil and gas fields. A wide range of paleontological, lithological and geochemical methods is utilized for conducting integrated geological-geochemical analysis and evaluating the initial hydrocarbon generating potential of organic matter of Precambrian source rocks. Investigated were peculiarities of depositional environments of the organic matter, specific features of its composition in sedimentary rocks and its generation characteristics. Own research efforts were performed in combination with generalization of other authors’ publications focused on Precambrian sequences enriched in organic matter – their occurrence, isotopic and biomarker characteristics and realization schemes of the hydrocarbon generation potential of Precambrian organic matter in the process of catagenesis. Geochemical peculiarities of initial organic matter are illustrated on various examples, type of the organic matter is determined together with the character of evolution of realization of its initial generation potential.

How to cite: Bolshakova M.A., Sitar K.A., Kozhanov D.D. On peculiarities of composition and properties of ancient hydrocarbon source rocks // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 269 . p. 700-707. EDN MKTALQ
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2024-04-16
  • Date accepted
    2024-09-24
  • Date published
    2024-11-12

Deep-buried Lower Paleozoic oil and gas systems in eastern Siberian Platform: geological and geophysical characteristics, estimation of hydrocarbon resources

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The study of deep-buried oil and gas systems is a promising trend in the preparation of hydrocarbon resources. The study of the factors determining oil and gas potential is extremely important. The Lena-Vilyui sedimentary basin in the eastern Siberian Platform has a potential for the discovery of large oil and gas fields in deep-buried Cambrian deposits. The use of original methodological approaches to the analysis of black shale and overlying deposits, generalization of the results of lithological, biostratigraphic and geochemical studies of Cambrian deposits in territories adjoining the study area, modern interpretation of geophysical data showed that siliceous, carbonate, mixed rocks (kerogen-mixtite) of the Kuonamka complex and clastic clinoform-built Mayan deposits are most interesting in terms of oil and gas potential. Oil and gas producing rocks of the Lower and Middle Cambrian Kuonamka complex subsided to the depths of 14 km. The interpretation of modern seismic surveying data confirms the hypothesis of a limited occurrence of the Upper Devonian Vilyui rift system. Based on generalization of geological, geophysical and geochemical archival and new materials on the Lower Paleozoic deposits of the eastern Siberian Platform, a probabilistic estimation of geological hydrocarbon resources of the Cambrian and younger Paleozoic complexes in the Lena-Vilyui sedimentary basin was performed. Based on basin modelling results it was concluded that the resources were mainly represented by gas. It is presumed that oil resources can be discovered in traps of the barrier reef system as well as on the Anabar and Aldan slopes of the Vilyui Hemisyneclise. With a confidence probability of 0.9, it can be stated that total initial resources of oil and gas (within the boundaries of the Vilyui Hemisyneclise) exceed 5 billion t of conventional hydrocarbons. The recommended extremely cautious estimate of resources of the pre-Permian complexes is 2.2 billion t of conventional hydrocarbons. In the study area, it is necessary to implement a program of deep and super-deep parametric drilling without which it is impossible to determine the oil and gas potential of the Lower Paleozoic.

How to cite: Kontorovich A.E., Burshtein L.M., Gubin I.A., Parfenova T.M., Safronov P.I. Deep-buried Lower Paleozoic oil and gas systems in eastern Siberian Platform: geological and geophysical characteristics, estimation of hydrocarbon resources // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 269 . p. 721-737. EDN WDBEOS
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2023-08-31
  • Date accepted
    2023-12-27
  • Date published
    2024-11-12

Geochemical studies of rocks of the Siberian igneous province and their role in the formation theory of unique platinum-copper-nickel deposits

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The Norilsk deposits, unique both in their geological structure and reserves of nickel and platinum, have attracted the attention of researchers for several decades. Several hypotheses have been proposed to explain their formation. Two of them are the most widely accepted: the model of ore formation in an intermediate chamber from picritic melt enriched in sulphides and the formation of sulphides in situ through the assimilation of sulphate-bearing sediments by tholeiitic magma as it rises to the surface. The main questions regarding the genesis of these deposits are: the composition of the parental magmas that formed the ore-bearing massifs; the relationship between intrusions and effusive rocks; and the extent and role of assimilation of host rocks by magmas. These issues are discussed in the article using a large amount of analytical data obtained by the author during the study of the magmatic rocks and geological structures in the Norilsk area. Based on these data, it was concluded that none of the proposed models could fully explain all observed geological features of the deposits as well as the appearance of the unique sulphide ores. In order to solve the problem of the genesis of the Norilsk deposits, it is necessary to analyse the evolution of P3-T1 magmatism over time in the Siberian large igneous province, especially in its eastern part, and to determine its association with ore-forming processes; and its investigating it is a priority task for understanding sulphide ore formation. Solving this task should be based not only on geophysical data but also on studies of the geochemistry of igneous rocks within the province.

How to cite: Krivolutskaya N.А. Geochemical studies of rocks of the Siberian igneous province and their role in the formation theory of unique platinum-copper-nickel deposits // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 269 . p. 738-756. EDN ROAVGE
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2023-09-29
  • Date accepted
    2023-10-25
  • Date published
    2024-08-26

Laboratory studies of transformation of porosity and permeability and chemical composition of terrigenous reservoir rocks at exposure to hydrogen (using the example of the Bobrikovskii formations in the oil field in the northeast Volga-Ural oil and gas province)

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The article describes the methodology for laboratory studies of reservoir rock exposure to hydrogen. The stages of sample research and the instruments used in the experiments are considered. A comparative analysis of the results of studies on porosity and permeability of core samples was performed. It was shown that after exposure to hydrogen, the porosity decreased by 4.6 %, and the permeability by 7.9 %. The analysis of correlation dependencies demonstrated a typical change in the relationship of these characteristics: after the samples exposure to hydrogen the scatter of the values increased and the correlation coefficient decreased, which indicates a change in the structure of the void space. Based on the research results, it was concluded that the decrease in porosity and permeability of the core samples occurred due to their minor compaction under the action of effective stresses. The chemical analysis of the rock showed no major difference in the composition of the basic oxides before and after exposure to hydrogen, which points to the chemical resistance of the studied formation to hydrogen. The experimental results showed that the horizon under consideration can be a storage of the hydrogen-methane mixture.

How to cite: Popov S.N., Chernyshov S.E., Abukova L.A. Laboratory studies of transformation of porosity and permeability and chemical composition of terrigenous reservoir rocks at exposure to hydrogen (using the example of the Bobrikovskii formations in the oil field in the northeast Volga-Ural oil and gas province) // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 268 . p. 646-655. EDN MFPSXV
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2021-12-20
  • Date accepted
    2024-05-02
  • Date published
    2024-08-26

A new formula for calculating the required thickness of the frozen wall based on the strength criterion

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The study delves into the elastoplastic deformation of a frozen wall (FW) with an unrestricted advance height, initially articulated by S.S.Vyalov. It scrutinizes the stress and displacement fields within the FW induced by external loads across various boundary scenarios, notably focusing on the inception and propagation of a plastic deformation zone throughout the FW's thickness. This delineation of the plastic deformation zone aligns with the FW's state of equilibrium, for which S.S.Vyalov derived a formula for FW thickness based on the strength criterion. These findings serve as a pivotal launchpad for the shift from a one-dimensional (1D) to a two-dimensional (2D) exploration of FW system deformation with finite advance height. The numerical simulation of FW deformation employs FreeFEM++ software, adopting a 2D axisymmetric approach and exploring two design schemes with distinct boundary conditions at the FW cylinder's upper base. The initial scheme fixes both vertical and radial displacements at the upper base, while the latter applies a vertical load equivalent to the weight of overlying soil layers. Building upon the research outcomes, a refined version of S.S.Vyalov's formula emerges, integrating the Mohr – Coulomb strength criterion and introducing a novel parameter – the advance height. The study elucidates conditions across various soil layers wherein the ultimate advance height minimally impacts the calculated FW thickness. This enables the pragmatic utilization of S.S.Vyalov's classical formula for FW thickness computation, predicated on the strength criterion and assuming an unrestricted advance height.

How to cite: Semin M.А., Levin L.Y. A new formula for calculating the required thickness of the frozen wall based on the strength criterion // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 268 . p. 656-668. EDN WEJUBT
Geology
  • Date submitted
    2022-11-21
  • Date accepted
    2024-05-02
  • Date published
    2024-08-26

M1 formation tectono-structural features and gas-oil potential within Archinskaya area Paleozoic basement (Western Siberia)

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Western Siberian Plate basement oil and gas potential evaluation largely depends on structural and stratigraphic complex architecture representation. New modern procedures for seismic data processing, detailed Paleozoic deposits stratigraphic studies and expanded geophysical well logging significantly change the representation of the basement rocks fold-block structure and previously developed hydrocarbon reservoirs models. Detailed studies conducted within the Archinskii uplift showed that Paleozoic sediments form a contrasting folded structure complicated by block tectonics. The significant block displacements amplitude determines the lithological and stratigraphic basement rocks erosional-tectonic surface, while the identified stratigraphic blocks control the oil productivity distribution within the Archinskaya area. The filtration-capacity heterogeneity folded structure of the Paleozoic sediments is reflected in the distribution of hydrocarbon saturation in the well section, forming independent gas, oil, and oil-water zones for the development process. The relationship between anticlinal structural forms of basement rocks to lowered, and synclinal to elevated blocks, determines the necessity to conduct exploration prospecting within younger stratigraphic blocks when assessing the deep Paleozoic oil and gas potential.

How to cite: Belozerov V.B., Korovin M.O. M1 formation tectono-structural features and gas-oil potential within Archinskaya area Paleozoic basement (Western Siberia) // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 268 . p. 520-534. EDN XDUIIJ
Geology
  • Date submitted
    2023-05-21
  • Date accepted
    2024-05-02
  • Date published
    2024-08-26

Assessment of the influence of lithofacies conditions on the distribution of organic carbon in the Upper Devonian “Domanik” deposits of the Timan-Pechora Province

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The study of high-carbon formations was instigated both by the decreasing raw material base of oil as a result of its extraction, and by the progress in development of low-permeability shale strata, primarily in the USA, Australia, and China. The most valuable formations occur in traditional hydrocarbon production areas – the West Siberian, Volga-Ural and Timan-Pechora, North Pre-Caucasian and Lena-Tunguska oil and gas provinces. Specific features of the Late Devonian-Early Carboniferous high-carbon formation occurring in the eastern marginal part of the East European Platform are: heterogeneous section due to intense progradation of the carbonate platform from west to east; succession of lithofacies environments that determined the unevenness of the primary accumulation and secondary distribution of organic matter (OM); possible migration or preservation in the source strata during the subsidence stages of the moving parts of bitumides, which determined the prospects for oil and gas potential. The distribution pattern of the present OM content was investigated depending on lithofacies conditions and lithological composition of rocks in the “Domanik type” Upper Devonian-Tournaisian deposits in the Timan-Pechora Province (TPP), its transformation degree to bring it to the initial content of organic carbon and further estimation of the share of stored “mobile oil” in oil and gas source formation. The study was based on the analysis of the data set on organic carbon content in core samples and natural exposures in the Ukhta Region in the Domanik-Tournaisian part of the section including more than 5,000 determinations presented in reports and publications of VNIGRI and VNIGNI and supplemented by pyrolytic and bituminological analyses associated with the results of microtomographic, macro- and lithological studies and descriptions of thin sections made at the Saint Petersburg Mining University. For each tectonic zone of the TPP within the investigated high-carbon intervals, the content of total volumes of organic carbon was determined. The data obtained allow estimating the residual mass of mobile bitumoids in a low-permeability matrix of the high-carbon formation.

How to cite: Prishchepa O.M., Sinitsa N.V., Ibatullin A.K. Assessment of the influence of lithofacies conditions on the distribution of organic carbon in the Upper Devonian “Domanik” deposits of the Timan-Pechora Province // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 268 . p. 535-551. EDN JPUKCM
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2022-05-20
  • Date accepted
    2023-06-20
  • Date published
    2024-02-29

Increasing the quality of zeolite-bearing rocks from Eastern Transbaikalia by applying directed energy

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This paper presents the use of accelerated electrons to treat zeolite-bearing rocks from Eastern Transbaikalia to increase the efficiency of separating zeolites from rock-forming minerals via electromagnetic separation. The effectiveness of the liberation of zeolite minerals using accelerated electrons was analyzed. The results of dry electromagnetic separation of zeolite-bearing rocks are presented. The dependence of the extraction of iron-bearing minerals from zeolite-bearing rocks by electromagnetic separation on the magnetic field intensity for different particle sizes has been established. The main methods of zeolite-bearing rock enrichment and ore preparation were determined. A technological scheme for processing zeolite-bearing rocks, based on the use of accelerated electron treatment at the ore preparation stage, is presented, significantly improving the zeolite production quality.

How to cite: Razmakhnin K.K., Khatkova A.N., Shumilova L.V. Increasing the quality of zeolite-bearing rocks from Eastern Transbaikalia by applying directed energy // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 265 . p. 129-139. EDN VNPZCT
Geology
  • Date submitted
    2023-02-07
  • Date accepted
    2023-06-20
  • Date published
    2024-02-29

Origin of carbonate-silicate rocks of the Porya Guba (the Lapland-Kolvitsa Granulite Belt) revealed by stable isotope analysis (δ18O, δ13C)

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Carbonate-silicate rocks of unclear origin have been observed in granulites of the Porya Guba of the Lapland-Kolvitsa Belt within the Fennoscandinavian Shield. The present work aims to reconstruct possible protoliths and conditions of metamorphic transformation of these rocks based on oxygen and carbon isotopic ratios combined with phase equilibria modeling. Isotope analysis and lithochemical reconstructions suggest that carbonate-silicate rocks of the Porya Guba represent metamorphosed sediments (possibly marls) with the isotopic composition corresponding to the Precambrian diagenetically transformed carbonates (δ18O ≈ 17.9 ‰, SMOW and δ13C ≈ –3.4 ‰, PDB). The chemical composition varies depending on the balance among the carbonate, clay, and clastic components. Significant changes of the isotopic composition during metamorphism are caused by decomposition reactions of primary carbonates (dolomite, siderite, and ankerite) producing CO2 followed by degassing. These reactions are accompanied by δ18O and δ13C decrease of calcite in isotopic equilibrium with CO2 down to 15 ‰ (SMOW) and –6 ‰ (PDB), respectively. The isotopic composition is buffered by local reactions within individual rock varieties, thus excluding any pronounced influence of magmatic and/or metasomatic processes.

How to cite: Krylov D.P., Klimova E.V. Origin of carbonate-silicate rocks of the Porya Guba (the Lapland-Kolvitsa Granulite Belt) revealed by stable isotope analysis (δ18O, δ13C) // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 265 . p. 3-15. EDN GISHQG
Geology
  • Date submitted
    2022-12-01
  • Date accepted
    2023-01-19
  • Date published
    2023-12-25

Inclusions of diamond crystals in the tourmaline of the schorl-uvite series: problems of genesis

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The mineralogical and geochemical features of diamond-bearing tourmaline crystals (schorl-uvite series) from garnet-clinopyroxene rocks of the Kumdy-Kol deposit (Northern Kazakhstan) have been studied in detail. The formation of the main rock-forming minerals (garnet + K-bearing clinopyroxene) occurred in the diamond stability field at 4-6 GPa and 950-1000 °C. Crystallization of K-bearing clinopyroxene at these parameters is possible in the presence of an ultra-potassic fluid or melt formed because of crustal material melting in subduction zones. Tourmaline crystals (up to 1 cm) containing diamond inclusions perform veins crosscutting high-pressure associations. The composition of individual zones varies from schorl to uvite within both a single grain and the sample as a whole. The potassium content in this tourmaline does not exceed 0.1 wt.% K2O, and the isotopic composition of boron δ11B varies from –10 to –15.5 ‰, which significantly differs from the previously established isotopic composition of boron in maruyamaite crystals (δ11B 7.7 ‰ in the core and –1.2 ‰ in the rim) of the same deposit. Analysis of the obtained data on δ11B in the tourmalines from the diamond-grade metamorphic rocks within the Kumdy-Kol deposit suggests the existence of two boron sources that resulted in crystallization of K-bearing tourmaline crystals (maruyamaite-dravite series) and potassium-free tourmalines of the schorl-uvite series.

How to cite: Korsakov A.V., Mikhailenko D.S., Zhang L., Xu Y.-G. Inclusions of diamond crystals in the tourmaline of the schorl-uvite series: problems of genesis // Journal of Mining Institute. 2023. Vol. 264 . p. 833-841. EDN UMQOXK
Modern Trends in Hydrocarbon Resources Development
  • Date submitted
    2022-08-20
  • Date accepted
    2022-11-17
  • Date published
    2022-12-29

Comparison of the approaches to assessing the compressibility of the pore space

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Integral and differential approaches to determining the volumetric compression of rocks caused by changes in the stress state are considered. Changes in the volume of the pore space of rocks are analyzed with an increase in its all-round compression. Estimation of changes in the compressibility coefficients of reservoirs due to the development of fields is an urgent problem, since the spread in the values of compressibility factors reduces the adequacy of estimates of changes in the physical properties and subsidence of the earth's surface of developed fields and underground gas storages. This parameter is key in assessing the geodynamic consequences of the long-term development of hydrocarbon deposits and the operation of underground gas storage facilities. Approaches to the assessment differ in the use of cumulative (integral) or local (differential) changes in porosity with a change in effective pressure. It is shown that the coefficient of volumetric compressibility of pores calculated by the integral approach significantly exceeds its value calculated by the differential approach, which is due to the accumulative nature of pore compression with an increase in effective pressure. It is shown that the differential approach more accurately determines the value of the pore compressibility coefficient, since it takes into account in more detail the features of the change in effective pressure.

How to cite: Zhukov V.S., Kuzmin Y.O. Comparison of the approaches to assessing the compressibility of the pore space // Journal of Mining Institute. 2022. Vol. 258 . p. 1008-1017. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2022.97
Modern Trends in Hydrocarbon Resources Development
  • Date submitted
    2021-09-01
  • Date accepted
    2022-10-07
  • Date published
    2022-12-29

Parameter determination of the method of directional unloading of the reservoir based on physical modelling on a true triaxial loading setup

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The article presents a theoretical and experimental substantiation of the method of directional unloading of the reservoir in fields with low-permeability reservoirs. The relevance of the article is due to the reduction of hydrocarbon resources in modern conditions and the need to create new efficient environmentally friendly technologies to develop hydrocarbon deposits with hard-to-recover reserves, primarily with low-permeability reservoirs. The results of a theoretical study of the stress-strain state in the vicinity of a well, both cased and open, are presented. They are necessary to develop programs for laboratory testing of core specimens from the studied fields. A technique for physical modelling of deformation processes in the bottomhole zone with a decrease in pressure at the well bottom in a true triaxial loading unit is described in order to determine the parameters of the process impact on the formation reservoir, leading to an increase in well productivity. The method was applied to the conditions of the low-permeability reservoir at the Verkhneviluchanskoye oil and gas condensate field in the southwest of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia). Expe-rimental studies were carried out on a unique scientific unit for true triaxial loading, created at the IPMech RAS, the Triaxial Independent Loading Test System. The directional unloading method was adapted for the studied field, the process parameters of successful application of the method were determined: the bottomhole design, the drawdown values necessary to increase the permeability of the bottomhole formation zone.

How to cite: Karev V.I., Kovalenko Y.F., Khimulia V.V., Shevtsov N.I. Parameter determination of the method of directional unloading of the reservoir based on physical modelling on a true triaxial loading setup // Journal of Mining Institute. 2022. Vol. 258 . p. 906-914. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2022.95
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2022-04-05
  • Date accepted
    2022-07-21
  • Date published
    2022-11-10

Development of resource-saving technology for excavation of flat-lying coal seams with tight roof rocks (on the example of the Quang Ninh coal basin mines)

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It is shown that the creation of the variants of resource-saving systems for the development of long-column mining is one of the main directions for improving the technological schemes for mining operations in the mines of the Kuang Nin coal basin. They provide a reduction in coal losses in the inter-column pillars and the cost of maintaining preliminary workings fixed with anchorage. The implementation of these directions is difficult (and in some cases practically impossible) when tight rocks are lying over the coal seam, prone to significant hovering in the developed space. In the Quang Ninh basin, 9-10 % of the workings are anchored, the operational losses of coal reach 30 % or more; up to 50 % of the workings are re-anchored annually. It is concluded that the real conditions for reducing coal losses and the effective use of anchor support as the main support of reusable preliminary workings are created when implementing the idea put forward at the St. Petersburg Mining University: leaving the coal pillar of increased width between the reused mine working and the developed space and its subsequent development on the same line with the stoping face simultaneously with the reclamation of the reused mine working.

How to cite: Zubov V.P., Phuc L.Q. Development of resource-saving technology for excavation of flat-lying coal seams with tight roof rocks (on the example of the Quang Ninh coal basin mines) // Journal of Mining Institute. 2022. Vol. 257 . p. 795-806. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2022.72
Geology
  • Date submitted
    2022-02-22
  • Date accepted
    2022-09-15
  • Date published
    2022-11-10

The problem of the genesis of the Mesoarchean aluminosilicate rocks from the Karelian craton and their possible use as a quartz-feldspar raw material

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The article presents original data obtained in the study of the chemical and mineral compositions of the Late Archean aluminosilicate rocks (formerly called silicites) from the Koikari and Elmus structures of the Vedlozero-Segozero greenstone belt of the Karelian craton (Central Karelia). A comprehensive study of these formations revealed their complex genesis as a result of the late imposition of hydrothermal and metamorphic alteration on sedimentary and volcanic-sedimentary rocks of feldspar-quartz composition. Due to the superimposed metasomatic (temperature?) impact on feldspar-quartz siltstones, Fe was removed from microinclusions in quartz and feldspar and its oxides were concentrated along the grain boundaries. Minerals such as monazite, parisite, allanite are also located either along the grain boundaries of quartz and feldspars, or together with calcite they fill microfractures, which makes it possible to get rid of them when preparing quartz-feldspar concentrates using various beneficiation technologies. According to most indicators limited by GOSTs, individual samples in their natural form meet the requirements for quartz-feldspar raw materials for use as part of batch in the production of diverse types of glass. Additional beneficiation of the feedstock (grinding, screening into narrow classes and further magnetic separation) leads to a decrease in Fe 2 O 3 content to normalized values. The resulting quartz-feldspar concentrates with various particle sizes can be used in the production of building material and fine ceramics (sanitary and ceramic products, facing and finishing tiles, artistic, household porcelain and faience). The homogeneity of the mineral and chemical composition, the possibility of compact extraction and beneficiation (including in mobile small-sized installations) increase the prospects and competitiveness of this non-traditional feldspar raw material from Central Karelia.

How to cite: Kondrashova N.I., Bubnova T.P., Medvedev P.V. The problem of the genesis of the Mesoarchean aluminosilicate rocks from the Karelian craton and their possible use as a quartz-feldspar raw material // Journal of Mining Institute. 2022. Vol. 257 . p. 720-731. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2022.65
Geology
  • Date submitted
    2022-02-24
  • Date accepted
    2022-05-25
  • Date published
    2022-07-26

Litsa uranium ore occurrence (Arctic zone of the Fennoscandian Shield): new results of petrophysical and geochemical studies

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Mineralogical, petrophysical and geochemical studies have been carried out to determine the sequence and formation conditions of uranium mineralization within the Litsa ore occurrence (Kola Region). Mineralogical studies show the following formation sequence of ore minerals: uraninite – sulfides – uranophane, coffinite, pitchblende. Two stages of uranium mineralization are distinguished: Th-U (1.85-1.75 Ga) and U (400-300 Ma). The distribution of physical properties of rocks in the area is consistent with the presence of two temporal stages in the formation of mineralization with different distribution and form of uranium occurrence in rocks. The factors that reduce rock anisotropy are the processes of migmatization and hydrothermal ore mineralization, which heal pores and cracks. Fluid inclusions in quartz studied by microthermometry and Raman spectroscopy contain gas, gas-liquid and aqueous inclusions of different salinity (1.7-18.4 wt.% NaCl-eq.). According to homogenization temperatures of inclusions in liquid phase, the temperature of the Paleoproterozoic and Paleozoic stages of uranium mineralization at the Litsa ore occurrence is ~ 300 and 200 °С, respectively. Correlations of the spatial distribution of elastic anisotropy index with an elevated radioactive background allow using this petrophysical feature as one of the prognostic criteria for uranium and complex uranium mineralization when carrying out uranium predictive work.

How to cite: Il’chenko V.L., Afanasieva E.N., Kaulina T.V., Lyalina L.M., Nitkina E.A., Mokrushina O.D. Litsa uranium ore occurrence (Arctic zone of the Fennoscandian Shield): new results of petrophysical and geochemical studies // Journal of Mining Institute. 2022. Vol. 255 . p. 393-404. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2022.44
Geology
  • Date submitted
    2022-04-18
  • Date accepted
    2022-06-15
  • Date published
    2022-07-26

Results and prospects of geological mapping of the Arctic shelf of Russia

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The results of compiling the sets of the State Geological Map at a scale of 1:1,000,000 for the Arctic continental shelf of Russia are analyzed. Results are summed up, and the main problems of geological mapping are outlined. The results of geological and geophysical studies of the Arctic Ocean are of great importance for deciphering the geological evolution. The Arctic shelf is the widest shelf in the world, while the spreading ocean basin is one of the narrowest and is characterized by anomalous structural features. The main problems of geological mapping include identification the sedimentary cover/folded basement boundary, interpretation the geodynamic evolution of the shelf and adjacent ocean, determining the rates of sedimentation and stratigraphic subdivision of the sedimentary cover due to a small number of key boreholes. It is promising to further study problem areas with unclear features of geological structure as well as small-scale mapping in areas of industrial development on the Arctic continental shelf.

How to cite: Gusev E.A. Results and prospects of geological mapping of the Arctic shelf of Russia // Journal of Mining Institute. 2022. Vol. 255 . p. 290-298. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2022.50
Geology
  • Date submitted
    2021-04-04
  • Date accepted
    2022-04-26
  • Date published
    2022-07-26

Vendian age of igneous rocks of the Chamberlain valley area (Northern part of the Wedel Jarlsberg Land, Svalbard Archipelago)

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The geological structure, structural relations with the underlying complexes, mineral composition, age and origin of sedimentary-volcanogenic and intrusive formations of the Chamberlain valley area (northern part of the Wedel Jarlsberg Land, Svalbard Archipelago) are considered. As a result of the studies, two stages of the Late Precambrian endogenous activity in this area have been identified. For the first time the Vendian ages (593-559 Ma) of intrusive (dolerites) and effusive (basalts, andesites, tuffs) rocks were determined by U-Pb-method (SHRIMP-II) for Svalbard Archipelago. At the same time, the Grenville ages for large bodies of gabbro-diorites, metadolerites bodies (1152-967 Ma), and metagranites (936 Ma) were determined for the first time for this area, which correlates well with the ages of magmatic formations obtained earlier in the southern part of Wedel Jarlsberg Land. A detailed petrographic and petrochemical characterization of all the described objects were compiled and the paleotectonic conditions of their formation were reconstructed. Based on these data, the Chemberlendalen series, which is dated to the Late Vendian, and the Rechurchbreen series, which the authors attribute to the Middle Riphean and correlate with the lower part of the Nordbucht series are distinguished. The data obtained indicate a two-stage Precambrian magmatism in this area of the Svalbard archipelago and, most importantly, provide evidence for the first time ever of endogenous activity on Svalbard in the Vendian time. This fact makes it possible to reconsider in the future the history of the formation of folded basement of the Svalbard archipelago and the nature of the geodynamic conditions in which it was formed.

How to cite: Sirotkin A.N., Evdokimov A.N. Vendian age of igneous rocks of the Chamberlain valley area (Northern part of the Wedel Jarlsberg Land, Svalbard Archipelago) // Journal of Mining Institute. 2022. Vol. 255 . p. 419-434. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2022.20
Geology
  • Date submitted
    2021-03-18
  • Date accepted
    2021-11-30
  • Date published
    2021-12-27

Deformations assessment during subway escalator tunnels construction by the method of artificial freezing of soil for the stage of ice wall formation

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The work is devoted to the study of the processes of displacement and deformation of the surface during the escalator tunnels construction of the subway by the method of artificial freezing of soils. The features of the construction and freezing technology, the rocks characteristics in which the escalator tunnels made are considered. The data of specially organized, full-scale surveying observations of deformations on the earth surface are presented. The main factors influencing deformation processes in the frozen strata of a layered inhomogeneous rock mass with inclined tunneling are determined, the complexity of the predictive task and the need to simplify the design scheme are shown. The work is focused on the assessment of the least studied geomechanical processes of soil heaving-uplifts and deformations during the periods of active and passive freezing stages. When studying the displacements processes of the earth surface and rock mass, the finite element method and analysis of the obtained data using field observations of displacements were used. A simplified calculation scheme is proposed for modeling, which allows taking into account the uneven influence of frozen rocks of an inhomogeneous layered rock mass with a large inclined tunneling. The satisfactory convergence of the data of field surveying observations on the earth surface and the results of modeling geomechanical processes for the period of active and passive freezing stages is shown. The proposed calculation scheme is recommended for the prediction of deformation at the stages of underground construction, characterized by the development of the most dangerous tensile deformations of buildings and structures on the surface.

How to cite: Volokhov E.M., Mukminova D.Z. Deformations assessment during subway escalator tunnels construction by the method of artificial freezing of soil for the stage of ice wall formation // Journal of Mining Institute. 2021. Vol. 252 . p. 826-839. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2021.6.5
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2021-03-05
  • Date accepted
    2021-10-18
  • Date published
    2021-12-16

Physical and mathematical model of rock destruction by a milling machine cutter

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As a result of the analysis of the work on rock destruction by cutters of milling of machines, it was found that the existing developments do not allow us to proceed to the derivation of calculation d dependencies for determining fracture resistance, or can be used only in preliminary calculations of the known by design parameters of milling machines. To eliminate these disadvantages, a combined physical and mathematical model of the process of interaction of a single milling cutter with a spherical tip with the rock has been developed. Consideration of the physical picture of the action of forces and stresses acting from the cutter with spherical tips on the separating rock element in the limiting condition allowed to describe analytically the components of total resistance, which are the mathematical part of the physical and mathematical model of rock destruction by cutters. Analytical dependences for determining the tangential and normal components of fracture resistance of rocks of medium hardness have been obtained. The adequacy of the physical and mathematical model to the physical process of destruction of rocks of different hardness by cutters on a universal stand was tested both in the field and in the laboratory conditions. Technical evaluation of the results of experimental studies confirms the reliability of the developed physical and mathematical model.

How to cite: Shemyakin S.A., Shishkin E.A. Physical and mathematical model of rock destruction by a milling machine cutter // Journal of Mining Institute. 2021. Vol. 251 . p. 639-647. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2021.5.3
Mining
  • Date submitted
    2020-07-04
  • Date accepted
    2021-03-29
  • Date published
    2021-09-20

Transition between relieved and unrelieved modes when cutting rocks with conical picks

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In the modern theory of rock cutting in production conditions, it is customary to distinguish two large classes of achievable cutting modes – relieved and unrelieved. The kinematics of rock-breaking machines in most cases determines the operation of the cutting tool in both modes in one cycle of the cutting tool. The currently available calculation methods have been developed for a stable, usually unrelieved cutting mode. In this article, the task is set to determine the conditions for the transition between cutting modes and the modernization of the calculation method for determining the forces on the cutting tool. The problem is solved by applying methods of algebraic analysis based on the search for the extremum of the force function on the cutter, depending on the ratio of the real cut spacing to the optimal spacing for the current chip thickness. As a result of solving the problem, an expression is obtained for determining the chip thickness, for which, at the specified parameters, the transition between the relieved and unrelieved cutting modes is provided. The obtained result made it possible to improve the method of calculating the forces on the cutting tool in the areas of the cutter movement with relieved cutting.

How to cite: Averin E.A., Zhabin A.B., Polyakov A.V., Linnik Y.N., Linnik V.Y. Transition between relieved and unrelieved modes when cutting rocks with conical picks // Journal of Mining Institute. 2021. Vol. 249 . p. 329-333. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2021.3.1
Mining
  • Date submitted
    2020-11-16
  • Date accepted
    2021-03-02
  • Date published
    2021-04-26

Determination and verification of the calculated model parameters of salt rocks taking into account softening and plastic flow

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The article suggests using a combination of the modified Burgers model and the Mohr – Coulomb model with the degradation of the adhesion coefficient and the increase in the friction coefficient to determine the parameters of salt rocks. A comparative analysis of long-term laboratory tests and field observations in underground mine workings with the results obtained using a calculated model with certain parameters is carried out. The parameters of the Mohr – Coulomb model with the degradation of the adhesion coefficient and the increase in the friction coefficient were obtained from the statistically processed data of laboratory tests, and the parameters of the modified Burgers model were determined. Using numerical methods, virtual (computer) axisymmetric triaxial tests, both instantaneous and long-term, were performed on the basis of the proposed model with selected parameters. A model problem is solved for comparing the behavior of the model with the data of observation stations in underground mine workings obtained from borehole rod extensometers and contour deformation marks. The analytically obtained coefficients of the nonlinear viscous element of the modified Burgers model for all the analyzed salt rocks did not need to be corrected based on the monitoring results. At the same time, optimization was required for the viscoelastic element coefficients for all the considered rocks. The analysis of the model studies showed a satisfactory convergence with the data on the observation stations. The comparative analysis carried out on the models based on laboratory tests and observations in the workings indicates the correct determination of the parameters for salt rocks and the verification of the model in general.

How to cite: Kozlovskiy E.Y., Zhuravkov M.A. Determination and verification of the calculated model parameters of salt rocks taking into account softening and plastic flow // Journal of Mining Institute. 2021. Vol. 247 . p. 33-38. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2021.1.4
Geology
  • Date submitted
    2020-05-17
  • Date accepted
    2020-10-05
  • Date published
    2020-11-24

Geological structure of the northern part of the Kara Shelf near the Severnaya Zemlya archipelago according to recent studies

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Until recently, the North of the Kara Shelf was completely unexplored by seismic methods. Seismic and seismo-acoustic data that have appeared in recent years have made it possible to decipher features of the regional geological structure. This study solves the urgent problem of determining the prospects for the oil and gas potential of the North Kara sedimentary basin. The relevance of the research is associated with determining the prospects of the oil and gas potential of the North Kara sedimentary basin. The aim of the study is to clarify the age of the reflecting horizons using data on the geology of the island, as well as to determine the tectonic position of the sedimentary cover and basement structures in the north of the Kara shelf. The sedimentary cover is divided into three structural levels: Cambrian-Devonian, Middle Carboniferous-Cretaceous, Miocene-Quarter. The Cambrian-Devonian complex fills the deep troughs of the North Kara shelf. The most noticeable discontinuity is the base of Carboniferous-Permian rocks, lying on the eroded surface of folded Silurian-Devonian seismic complexes. The blanket-like plate part of the cover is composed of thin Carbon-Quarter complexes. The authors came to the conclusion that the fold structures of the Taimyr-Severozemelskiy fold belt gradually degenerate towards the Kara sedimentary basin and towards the continental slope of the Eurasian basin of the Arctic Ocean. A chain of narrow uplifts within the seabed relief, which correspond to narrow anticlines is traced to the West of the Severnaya Zemlya islands. Paleozoic rocks have subhorizontal bedding further to the West, within the Kara shelf. Mesozoic folding in the North of the Kara Sea is expressed exclusively in a weak activation of movements along faults. At the neotectonic stage, the shelf near Severnaya Zemlya was raised and the Mesozoic complexes were eroded. The modern seismic activity of the North Zemlya shelf is associated with the ongoing formation of the continental margin.

How to cite: Gusev E.A., Krylov A.A., Urvantsev D.M., Goremykin Y.V., Krynitsky P.I. Geological structure of the northern part of the Kara Shelf near the Severnaya Zemlya archipelago according to recent studies // Journal of Mining Institute. 2020. Vol. 245 . p. 505-512. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2020.5.1