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Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2023-10-02
  • Date accepted
    2024-11-07
  • Date published
    2025-04-25

Laboratory studies of hydraulic fracturing of intersecting boreholes in a non-uniform stress field

Article preview

This study focuses on the features of hydraulic fracture propagation in intersecting boreholes in polymethyl methacrylate blocks in a non-uniform stress field. Glycerol aqueous solution and plasticine were used as the working fluids. According to linear fracture mechanics, a stress concentrator at the borehole intersection contributes to the beginning of crack formation, with further crack propagation occurring in the plane containing their axes. The relevance of this study is due to the search for innovative approaches and the development of technological solutions to address the issue of effective longitudinal crack formation and its further propagation in a rock mass under unfavourable stress field conditions. This paper provides a scheme of laboratory stand operation and a general view of the sealing packers used to isolate a specified interval when performing tests. The graphs of glycerol pressure versus injection time are presented, and the breakdown pressure in the blocks is specified. The shape of fractures formed during the indentation of plasticine into the borehole system was investigated. The findings of physical modelling indicate that longitudinal cracks are predominantly formed in the boreholes. The deviation of the crack trajectory from the vertical plane containing the borehole axes is primarily affected by the magnitude of the horizontal compressive stress field rather than the increase in the angle between them. In addition, the angles of inclination of the longitudinal crack plane measured at its intersection with the side face of the block are specified.

How to cite: Patutin A.V., Skulkin A.A., Rybalkin L.A., Drobchik A.N. Laboratory studies of hydraulic fracturing of intersecting boreholes in a non-uniform stress field // Journal of Mining Institute. 2025. Vol. 272. p. 100-109. EDN JFQTTE
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2023-11-02
  • Date accepted
    2024-09-24
  • Date published
    2025-04-25

Mercury contamination of sediments at Indonesia Ciujung watershed: contribution of artisanal small-scale gold mining

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Artisanal small-scale gold mining is the largest artificial source of mercury pollution and has been a very common problem recently. This study examined the contribution of Hg release due to artisanal small-scale gold mining in contaminating the sediment of the watershed in Indonesia. Different from other methods, we measured Hg pollution using the stable isotopes of carbon and nitrogen. This report is the first time analytical reports in Indonesia since most papers focus primarily on only detecting heavy metals in river water and sediments, neglecting deep research on Hg pollution and resources. The findings of this study indicate that artisanal and small-scale gold mining activities, located in the upstream areas of the tributaries that act as point sources, are the primary source of mercury in the sediment of the Ciujung watershed. The isotopes δ13C and δ15N successfully trace the Hg-contaminated sediment in the Ciujung watershed derived from the Cisimeut and Ciberang Rivers based on soil organic matter. The biological effect showed the Hg concentration in most of the sampling sites exceeded the Effects-range medium and Probable effect limit values. The Risk quotient values of Hg indicated the Hg pollution had a possibility effect on the benthic organism. Several limitations have also been added in this study and needs for further investigation.

How to cite: Nugraha W.C., Jeong H., Quang P.D., Novirsa R., Komorita T., Yasuhiro I., Kobayashi J., Arizono K., Nandiyanto A.B.D. Mercury contamination of sediments at Indonesia Ciujung watershed: contribution of artisanal small-scale gold mining // Journal of Mining Institute. 2025. Vol. 272. p. 59-71. EDN PJVEY
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2024-03-20
  • Date accepted
    2024-11-07
  • Date published
    2025-04-25

Analysis of the stress state of rocks transformation near a horizontal well during acid treatment based on numerical simulation

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The article presents an overview of the assessment and modelling of the stress state of rocks in the near-wellbore zone of horizontal wells during acid stimulation of the formation for improving the efficiency of oil and gas field development. A numerical finite element model of near-wellbore zone of the reservoir drilled by a horizontal section was compiled using one of oil fields in the Perm Territory as an example. The distribution of physical and mechanical properties of the terrigenous reservoir near the well was determined considering transformation under the action of mud acid for different time periods of its injection. Multivariate numerical simulation was performed and the distribution of horizontal and vertical stresses in near-wellbore zone was determined with regard for different values ​​of pressure drawdown and changes in stress-strain properties depending on the area of ​​mud acid infiltration. It was found that a change in elastic modulus and Poisson's ratio under the influence of acid led to a decrease in stresses in near-wellbore zone. Analysis of the stress distribution field based on the Coulomb – Mohr criterion showed that the minimum safety factor of rock even after the effect of mud acid was 1.5; thus, under the considered conditions of horizontal well modelling, the reservoir rock remained stable, and no zones of rock destruction appeared.

How to cite: Popov S.N., Chernyshov S.E., Wang X. Analysis of the stress state of rocks transformation near a horizontal well during acid treatment based on numerical simulation // Journal of Mining Institute. 2025. Vol. 272. p. 110-118. EDN VOBTXU
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2023-12-07
  • Date accepted
    2024-11-07
  • Date published
    2025-04-25

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. Vol. 272. p. 136-144. EDN FRCVVZ
Geology
  • Date submitted
    2024-03-11
  • Date accepted
    2024-11-07
  • Date published
    2025-04-25

Geochemical characteristics of weathering crusts on the Dzhezhimparma Ridge and the Nemskaya Upland (South Timan)

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Numerous local varieties of weathering crusts are known in the South Timan. They differ in their position in the section, type of weathering products, substrates, and occurrence. The aim of the research is to identify patterns in the distribution of rock-forming, rare and rare earth elements and the composition of clay minerals in clay formations of the weathering crusts. The main task is to describe the occurrence and geochemical features that enable determining the genetic type and formation conditions of weathering crusts. The paper presents the results of a study of the distribution of petrogenic, rare earth, rare elements, and clay minerals in weathering crust of different ages, genetic types and occurrence conditions on the Dzhezhimparma Ridge and the Nemskaya Upland in the South Timan. We found that hydromica-kaolinite-type weathering crust is developed after the Late Riphean Dzhezhim Fm. rocks in the basement-cover contact zone on the Dzhezhimparma Upland, and the layer of fine-grained rock at the base of the Devonian section previously considered a weathering crust was formed as a result of mechanical destruction of the Devonian sandstones during movement in the thrust zone. In the Vadyavozh quarry located on the Nemskaya Upland, we studied and described the formations of Mesozoic-Cenozoic areal and linear weathering crusts after the Late Riphean Dzhezhim Fm. rocks. We found that micaceous siltstones in the siltstone-sandstone strata of the Dzhezhim Fm. are associated with the Riphean stage of crust formation and are composed of weathering crust material redeposited in the epicontinental basin.

How to cite: Grakova O.V., Nikulova N.Y., Simakova Y.S. Geochemical characteristics of weathering crusts on the Dzhezhimparma Ridge and the Nemskaya Upland (South Timan) // Journal of Mining Institute. 2025. Vol. 272. p. 3-15. EDN EBLEPI
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2023-06-25
  • Date accepted
    2024-11-07
  • Date published
    2025-02-25

Study of wormhole channel formation resulting from hydrochloric acid treatment in complex-type reservoirs using filtration and X-ray computed tomography methods

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The primary function of hydrochloric acid treatment (HAT) is to create the maximum number of high-conductivity channels in the near-wellbore zone of the reservoir to restore its permeability and enhance hydraulic connectivity between the undisturbed part of the formation and the well. The objective of this study is to physically model HAT on core samples from the Orenburg oil and gas condensate field and to research the impact of such treatment on the structure of the pore space of rocks related to complex-type reservoirs. The complexity of the rock's pore space and the low permeability of the formations are distinguishing features of the study object. For this reason, HAT is a widely applied method for production intensification, necessitating the verification of acid injection rates, where the success criterion is the formation of high-conductivity filtration channels (wormholes) in the near-wellbore zone. These channels significantly expand the drainage area of wells, thereby bringing additional reservoir sections into development. The study examined the characteristics of filtration channel development resulting from acid treatment. Their structure was characterized and analyzed using X-ray computed tomography. The complex study confirmed the accuracy of the selected injection rate and provided practical recommendations for enhancing the efficiency of HAT.

How to cite: Аbrosimov A.A. Study of wormhole channel formation resulting from hydrochloric acid treatment in complex-type reservoirs using filtration and X-ray computed tomography methods // Journal of Mining Institute. 2025. Vol. 271. p. 63-73. EDN AIJSIT
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2023-10-04
  • Date accepted
    2024-09-24
  • Date published
    2025-02-25

Crustal movement model in the ITRF2020 – a case study in Northern Vietnam

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In the North area of Vietnam, the crustal movement velocity of 38 GNSS points belonging to different international Earth reference frames (ITRF2000, ITRF2005, ITRF2008) is adjusted to the international Earth reference frame ITRF2020. This is the latest frame up to now. Since then, the picture of crustal movement in the North area of Vietnam has been unified in a dynamic coordinate system. In the study area, the rate of crustal movement is about 35 mm/year, and the direction of displacement is from northwest to southeast. To build a model of the crustal movement of the Earth in the northern area of Vietnam, the movement velocity data of 38 stations in ITRF2020 is evaluated with high accuracy. All points are also satisfactory. And then, the crustal movement velocity model is built by using the collocation method in the form of the 3-order Markov function. Within 38 stations, 34 stations are used to build the model and 4 remaining stations are used as checked stations. The obtained results show that the Earth's crust movement velocity model has an accuracy of about 2 mm/year for movement velocity and 2 deg for movement direction. This is the first model of Earth's crust movement in the North of Vietnam that has been built in the latest dynamic coordinate system ITRF2020. These results have important significance in the research and practical application of the movement of the Earth's crust. The steps of building the movement velocity model in this study can be applied to other experimental areas in the territory of Vietnam.

How to cite: Tham B.T.H., Thanh P.T. Crustal movement model in the ITRF2020 – a case study in Northern Vietnam // Journal of Mining Institute. 2025. Vol. 271. p. 120-130. EDN PHHTOE
Economic Geology
  • Date submitted
    2024-03-18
  • Date accepted
    2024-11-07
  • Date published
    2025-04-25

Public-private partnership in the mineral resources sector of Russia: how to implement the classical model?

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A comparative financial and economic analysis is conducted of different public-private partnership (PPP) models for industrial infrastructure construction projects in an underdeveloped resource-rich region. The Stackelberg game theory-based model is used to build a parametrized family of bilevel mathematical programming models that describe an entire spectrum of partnership schemes. This approach enables a comparison of different strategies for the distribution of infrastructure investments between the government and the subsoil user and hence a scenario of transformation of Russia’s current PPP scheme into the classical partnership model, which is practiced in developed economies. To this end, a database is created on fifty polymetallic deposits in Transbaikalia, and a comparative analysis is conducted of Stackelberg equilibrium development programs that implement different PPP models. The numerical experiment results show the classical PPP model to be most effective in the case of a budget deficit. The analysis helps assess the economic consequences of a gradual transformation of the partnership institution in industrial infrastructure construction from investor support in the Russian model to government support in the classical scheme. Intermediate partnership models, which act as a transitional institution, help reduce the budget burden. These models can be implemented by clustering the deposits, developing subsoil user consortia, and practicing shared construction of necessary transport and energy infrastructure. The intensification of horizontal connections between subsoil users creates favorable conditions for additional effects from the consolidation of resources and can serve as a foundation for a practical partnership scheme within the framework of the classical model.

How to cite: Lavlinskii S.M., Panin A.A., Plyasunov A.V. Public-private partnership in the mineral resources sector of Russia: how to implement the classical model? // Journal of Mining Institute. 2025. Vol. 272. p. 145-158. EDN VQCWOF
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2024-05-28
  • Date accepted
    2024-11-07
  • Date published
    2024-12-25

Methods of intensification of pipeline transportation of hydraulic mixtures when backfilling mined-out spaces

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The paper presents an analysis of the advantages and limitations of additional measures to intensify the transportation of the backfill hydraulic mixture flow. The results of the analysis of the conditions for using pumping equipment to move flows with different rheological properties are shown. Generalizations of the methods for influencing the internal resistance of backfill hydraulic mixtures by means of mechanical activation, as well as increasing fluidity due to the use of chemical additives are given. The article presents the results of studies confirming the feasibility of using pipes with polymer lining, which has proven its efficiency in pumping flows of hydraulic mixtures with different filler concentrations. An analytical model of hydraulic mixture movement in the pipeline of the stowage complex has been developed. The trends in pressure change required to ensure the movement of hydraulic mixture in pipelines of different diameters are exponential, provided that the flow properties are constant. The effect of particle size on the motion mode of the formed heterogeneous flow, as well as on the distribution of flow density over the cross-section, characterizing the stratification and change in the rheological properties of the backfill hydraulic mixture, is assessed. An analytical model of centralized migration of the dispersed phase of the hydraulic mixture flow is formulated, describing the effect of turbulent mixing of the flow on the behavior of solid particles. An assessment of the secondary dispersion of the solid fraction of the hydraulic mixture, which causes a change in the consistency of the flow, was performed. The studies of the influence of the coefficient of consistency of the flow revealed that overgrinding of the fractions of the filler of the hydraulic mixture contributes to an increase in the required pressure in the pipeline system.

How to cite: Vasilyeva M.A., Golik V.I., Zelentsova A.A. Methods of intensification of pipeline transportation of hydraulic mixtures when backfilling mined-out spaces // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. p. EDN TJNVLR
Economic Geology
  • Date submitted
    2024-07-28
  • Date accepted
    2024-11-26
  • Date published
    2024-12-12

From import substitution to technological leadership: how local content policy accelerates the development of the oil and gas industry

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Achieving technological sovereignty implies accelerating innovation and reducing import dependence. An effective tool for addressing these challenges is local content policy (LCP). The purpose of this study is to assess the impact of LCP on innovation activity in oil and gas companies and to provide recommendations for enhancing the effectiveness of this policy in Russia. The paper analyzes the influence of LCP on innovation levels in the oil and gas sector, drawing on examples from 10 countries. A positive short-term impact of LCP on innovation was identified in Brazil, Malaysia, and Saudi Arabia, with long-term effects observed in China and South Africa. Recommendations for improving the effectiveness of LCP in Russia are supplemented with a methodology for calculating the level of technological sovereignty. A refinement of the method for solving the «responsiveness» problem, incorporating the level of localization, has been proposed.

How to cite: Zhdaneev O.V., Ovsyannikov I.R. From import substitution to technological leadership: how local content policy accelerates the development of the oil and gas industry // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. p. EDN KMCTLU
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
    2024-04-10
  • Date accepted
    2024-10-14
  • Date published
    2024-11-12

The influence of ocean anoxia on conditions for the Domanik deposits formation

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The article considers one of conditions for the Domanik facies formation on the example of Tatarstan and Bashkortostan. The main emphasis is on the influence of anoxic paleobasin conditions on the high-carbon strata formation. A detailed study of the hydrocarbon composition of Domanik deposits made it possible to find characteristic biomarkers in their composition. They are based on the composition and structure of diagenetic products of biological compounds composing the sulphur bacteria living in anoxic/euxinic paleobasin conditions. Such compounds include C40 diaryl isoprenoids – isorenieratane and paleorenieratane. C10 tetramethylbenzenes also occupy a special place in the Domanik deposits study. Their appearance in the composition of organic matter of these deposits results from the transformation of sulphur bacteria compounds. Diaryl isoprenoids and tetramethylbenzenes are a reliable indicator of anoxic conditions of the Domanik deposits formation. The thermodynamic state of the hydrocarbon environment can be determined from the ratio of tetramethylbenzene isomers.

How to cite: Plotnikova I.N., Ostroukhov S.B., Pronin N.V. The influence of ocean anoxia on conditions for the Domanik deposits formation // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 269. p. 803-814. EDN YORQKB
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2024-05-03
  • Date accepted
    2024-09-05
  • Date published
    2024-11-12

Platinum group elements as geochemical indicators in the study of oil polygenesis

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This study examines elements of the platinum group (PGE), primarily platinum and palladium, as geochemical indicators in the investigation of oil polygenesis. It has been found that, like other trace elements such as nickel, vanadium, and cobalt, platinum group elements and gold can occur in oil fields at both background levels and in elevated or even anomalously high concentrations. The objective of this research is to analyze PGE and trace elements as geochemical markers to identify the geological factors, including endogenous processes, responsible for these unusually high concentrations in oil. A comprehensive review of the literature on this subject was conducted, along with new data on the presence of precious metals in oils from Russia and globally. The study explores the geological mechanisms behind elevated PGE concentrations in oils, utilizing atomic absorption spectroscopy with atomization in the HGA-500 graphite furnace to measure PGE content. Previously, the tellurium co-deposition method (ISO 10478:1994) was used to isolate noble metals from associated elements. Possible geological origins of abnormally high concentrations of platinum metals in oils have been identified. These include endogenous factors such as the spatial proximity of oil fields to ultrabasic rock massifs, the effects of contact-metasomatic processes, and influences from mantle dynamics. Moreover, data concerning mantle elements can serve as indicators of the depth origins of certain hydrocarbon fluids, thus contributing to the study of oil polygenesis.

How to cite: Talovina I.V., Ilalova R.K., Babenko I.A. Platinum group elements as geochemical indicators in the study of oil polygenesis // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 269. p. 833-847. EDN UYYBSB
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2024-05-17
  • Date accepted
    2024-10-14
  • Date published
    2024-11-12

Black shales – an unconventional source of noble metals and rhenium

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The content of noble metals and rhenium in the Lower Paleozoic black shales of the eastern Baltic paleobasin in Russia was estimated. Shales are enriched in platinoids (PGM to 0.12 g/t) and rhenium (to 1.54 g/t). The main accessory elements of noble metals and Re are U, V, Mo, Cu, and Ni. Black shales consist of organic (9-26 rel.%), clay (40-60 rel.%), and silt-sandy (25-50 rel.%) components and a nodule complex (2-5 rel.%) (carbonate, sulfide, phosphate and silicate nodules). Noble metals occur sporadically in the silt-sandy admixture as native forms and intermetallics: Aunat, Au-Ag, Au-Cu, Au-(Cu)-Hg, Au-Hg, Ag-Cu, Pt-Fe. Micromineral phases of noble metals were found in diagenetic sulfides: Aunat, chalcopyrite with Au admixture, pyrite with platinoid admixture. Clay fraction is 10-fold enriched in noble metals as compared to shale – to 0.28 g/t Au, 0.55 g/t Pt, 1.05 g/t Pd, and 1.56 g/t Re. Organic matter sorbs noble metals to a limited extent but accumulates rhenium. Pore space of black shales contains a colloidal salt component (submicron fraction) which is represented by particles smaller than 1,000 nm. The share of submicron fraction in black shales is 0.1-6 wt.%. The submicron fraction contains on average: PGM – 14 g/t, Au – 0.85 g/t, and Re – 4.62 g/t. The geochemical resource of noble metals (Au, Pt, Pd), Re and the accessory elements (U, V, Mo, Cu, and Ni) for black shales as a whole and their submicron fraction was estimated. Black shales are recommended as an integrated source of raw materials.

How to cite: Panova E.G., Engalychev S.Y., Fadin Y.Y., Oleinikova G.A., Tikhomirova I.Y. Black shales – an unconventional source of noble metals and rhenium // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 269. p. 789-802. EDN PTILYQ
Editorial
  • Date submitted
    2024-10-29
  • Date accepted
    2024-10-29
  • Date published
    2024-11-12

Study of thermodynamic processes of the Earth from the position of the genesis of hydrocarbons at great depths

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In the context of significant depletion of traditional proven oil reserves in the Russian Federation and the inevitability of searching for new directions of study and expansion of the raw material base of hydrocarbon raw materials in hard-to-reach regions and on the Arctic shelf, a scientific search is underway for accumulations in complex geological conditions and in manifestations that differ significantly from traditional ones, which include the processes of oil and gas formation and preservation of oil and gas in low-permeability “shale” strata and in heterogeneous reservoirs at great and super-great depths. Within the oil and gas provinces of the world, drilling of a number of deep and super-deep wells has revealed deposits at great depths, established connections between hydrocarbon deposits and “traces” of hydrocarbon migration left in the core of deep wells, which has made it possible to significantly re-evaluate theoretical ideas on the issue of oil and gas formation conditions and the search for technologies aimed at solving applied problems. Modern geochemical, chromatographic, bituminological, coal petrographic and pyrolytic methods of studying oil and bitumoids extracted from the host rocks of deep well cores give a hope for identifying correlations in the oil-source system, revealing processes that determine the possibility of hydrocarbon formation and accumulation, and defining predictive criteria for oil and gas potential at great depths.

How to cite: Prishchepa O.M., Aleksandrova T.N. Study of thermodynamic processes of the Earth from the position of the genesis of hydrocarbons at great depths // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 269. p. 685-686.
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
    2024-05-13
  • Date accepted
    2024-09-05
  • Date published
    2024-11-12

Potential trace element markers of naphthogenesis processes: modeling and experimentation

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With the growing demand for hydrocarbon energy resources, there is a need to involve oil fields at deeper horizons in processing and increase the profitability of their development. Reduction of expenses on prospecting works is possible at revealing and substantiation of physicochemical markers of the naphthogenesis processes. One of the key markers is the transition metals content, which are both a measure of oil age and markers of potential associated processes in the migration and formation of hydrocarbons in the Earth's strata. The elemental composition of samples of oil and reservoir rocks of the Timan-Pechora field was studied. Based on the results of thermodynamic modeling, plausible processes of contact rock minerals transformation were proposed. Based on the results of molecular modeling the probable structure of vanadium and nickel host molecules in the heavy fraction of oils is proposed. The ratios of transition metal and sulfur contents were experimentally established, and assumptions about possible mechanisms of formation of deep hydrocarbon reservoirs were made. Analysis of the obtained ratios of transition metal contents in reservoir rocks and oil samples allowed to suggest possible processes of mantle fluids contact with the host rock and subsequent accumulation of hydrocarbons on sorption active rocks. According to the combined results of experimental and theoretical studies it was found that polymers of heavy fraction more selectively capture vanadium, which indicates the predominance of vanadium content in oil-bearing rocks in relation to the content of nickel. In this case, oil acts as a transport of transition metals, leaching them from the bedrock.

How to cite: Aleksandrova T.N., Kuznetsov V.V., Nikolaeva N.V. Potential trace element markers of naphthogenesis processes: modeling and experimentation // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 269. p. 687-699. EDN OXGNYL
Economic Geology
  • Date submitted
    2023-11-01
  • Date accepted
    2024-05-02
  • Date published
    2024-12-25

Improving the procedure for group expert assessment in the analysis of professional risks in fuel and energy companies

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The lack of a unified approach to the assessment of professional risks in fuel and energy companies (FEC) in the national regulatory environment and a high degree of subjectivity of the results of hazard identification and risk assessment makes mathematically sound recruitment of an expert group urgent and necessary. The article presents the results of a comprehensive study on hazard identification and risk assessment at 6,105 workplaces in 24 branches of a FEC company based on the application of the expert assessment method and a scientifically sound qualitative and quantitative selection of experts. The priority vectors of factors are determined, global priorities are calculated, the size of the expert group (15 persons) is determined and mathematically substantiated for carrying out hazard identification and risk assessment at workplaces with sufficient reliability of results. For the first time, a set of factors characterizing the FEC companies that influence the determination of professional competence of experts is proposed. The formed expert group presented more precise, objective and consistent results of risk assessment. Standards for free distribution of personal protective equipment (PPE) and wash-off agents to 7,234 company employees for implementation and trial use were developed. A fragment of the results obtained for a driller's workplace is presented. This approach allows a significant increase in objectivity and efficiency of the professional risk management system and provision of the PPE to employees in the concept of a risk-oriented approach helping to prevent industrial injuries and improve the level of occupational safety culture in fuel and energy companies taking into account global practice.

How to cite: Karchina E.I., Ivanova M.V., Volokhina А.T., Glebova E.V., Vikhrov A.E. Improving the procedure for group expert assessment in the analysis of professional risks in fuel and energy companies // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 270. p. 994-1003. EDN NZKFQG
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
    2023-11-08
  • Date accepted
    2024-05-02
  • Date published
    2024-12-25

Trace element composition of silicate minerals from Kunashak Meteorite (L6)

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Major (EPMA) and trace (SIMS) element geochemistry in the silicate minerals (olivine, pyroxene and plagioclase) of Kunashak equilibrated ordinary chondrite (L6) is described. No variations in the major element concentrations of the silicate minerals have been found, which is characteristic of equilibrated chondrites of petrological type VI. Low-Са pyroxene and plagioclase from the radiated olivine-pyroxene chondrule of Kunashak Meteorite contain an abundance of trace elements (Yb, Cr, Nb and Ti – pyroxene; Sr, Y, Ti and Zr – plagioclase), which is not characteristic of minerals from the porphyritic olivine and olivine-pyroxene chondrules of the meteorite. The porphyritic olivine-pyroxene chondrule of the Kunashak Meteorite has high trace element concentrations in olivine, in particular, the highest Yb concentration (0.12 ppm on the average) relative to porphyritic and radiated olivine-pyroxene chondrules (0.02 ppm). High trace element concentrations indicate rapid crystallization of a radiated chondrule in a nebula and show no traces of trace element homogenization upon thermal metamorphism. The trace element composition of silicate minerals from Kunashak Meteorite has retained the individual melting pattern of the chondrules and remained unaffected by thermal metamorphism on the parent bodies of the chondrules. Similar results, obtained in the study of Bushkhov Meteorite (L6), indicate that trace elements in olivine and low-Са pyroxene are resistant to thermal metamorphism. The persistence of the individual pattern of the chondrules enables us to use equilibrated ordinary chondrites for the study of processes at early stages in the formation of the Solar System and to better understand chondrule and planet formation mechanisms.

How to cite: Sukhanova K.G., Galankina O.L. Trace element composition of silicate minerals from Kunashak Meteorite (L6) // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 270. p. 877-892. EDN PYFBEB
Economic Geology
  • Date submitted
    2024-04-08
  • Date accepted
    2024-06-13
  • Date published
    2024-12-25

Analysing the problems of reproducing the mineral resource base of scarce strategic minerals

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The results of studying the scarcity of strategic minerals in the Russian Federation are presented, domestic consumption of which is largely provided by forced imports and/or stored reserves. Relevance of the work is due to aggravation of the geopolitical situation and a growing necessity to meet the demand of national economy for raw materials from own sources. Analysis of the state of mineral resource base of scarce minerals in the Russian Federation was accomplished, problems were identified and prospects for its development were outlined taking into account the domestic demand for scarce minerals, their application areas and the main consumers. Reducing the deficit through the import of foreign raw materials and the development of foreign deposits does not ensure the reproduction of the domestic mineral resource base, independence of the country from imported raw materials as well as additional competitive advantages, economic stability and security. It was ascertained that a major factor holding back the development of the mineral resource base is insufficient implementation of new technological solutions for the use of low-quality ore. Improving the technologies in the industry is relevant for all types of scarce minerals to solve the problem of reproducing their resource base. Taking into account the prospects for the development of the resource base for the minerals under consideration (manganese, uranium, chromium, fluorspar, zirconium, titanium, graphite) requires a set of legal and economic measures aimed at increasing the investment attractiveness of geological exploration for subsoil users at their own expense without attracting public funding. The proposed measures, taking into account the analysis of positive experience of foreign countries, include the development of junior businesses with expansion of the “declarative” principle, the venture capital market, various tax incentives, preferential loans as well as conditions for the development of infrastructure in remote regions. The proposed solution to the problem of scarcity of strategic minerals will make it possible in future to present measures to eliminate the scarcity of certain types of strategic minerals taking into account their specificity.

How to cite: Pashkevich N.V., Khloponina V.S., Pozdnyakov N.A., Avericheva A.A. Analysing the problems of reproducing the mineral resource base of scarce strategic minerals // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 270. p. 1004-1023. EDN HNTQBF
Energy industry
  • Date submitted
    2024-06-12
  • Date accepted
    2024-07-18
  • Date published
    2025-04-25

Development of parameters for an industry-specific methodology for calculating the electric energy storage system for gas industry facilities

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The issue of determining the main parameters of electric energy storage systems – power and energy intensity – is being considered, the determination of which is a fundamentally important task when introducing such devices into the power supply systems of enterprises for both technical (technological) and economic reasons. The work analyzes problems that can be solved by installing electricity storage systems at gas industry facilities. An industry-wide methodology has been developed for calculating the parameters of an electricity storage system based on traditional methods and methods aimed at minimizing the standardized cost of electricity with adaptation to the conditions of the gas industry. A distinctive feature of the presented methodology is the ability to determine the power and energy intensity of electricity storage systems when performing several functions. The methodology was tested at a typical gas industry facility – the Yarynskaya compressor station of OOO Gazprom Transgaz Ukhta, a characteristic feature of which is an autonomous power supply system. An example is given of calculating the electricity storage normalized cost using an improved LCOS indicator, which takes into account the effect of changing the fill factor of the electrical load schedule on the amount of gas consumption by a power plant for its own needs. To confirm the economic efficiency of introducing electricity storage systems calculated using the above methodology, calculations of the integral effect, net present value and efficiency index are presented.

How to cite: Tokarev I.S. Development of parameters for an industry-specific methodology for calculating the electric energy storage system for gas industry facilities // Journal of Mining Institute. 2025. Vol. 272. p. 171-180. EDN UIZSOQ
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2024-04-16
  • Date accepted
    2024-06-03
  • Date published
    2024-07-04

Quantitative determination of sulfur forms in bottom sediments for rapid assessment of the industrial facilities impact on aquatic ecosystems

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The article describes an X-ray fluorescence method for quantitative analysis of sulfate and total sulfur in bottom sediments of watercourses and reservoirs located in the area of industrial enterprises impact. The quantitative determination of sulfur forms was carried out by analyzing the characteristic curves SKα1,2 and SKβ1,3, as well as the satellite line SKβ′ on X-ray emission spectra measured by an X-ray fluorescence spectrometer with wavelength dispersion. The study shows that these characteristic curves allow not only to determine the predominant form of sulfur, but also to separately conduct quantitative analyses of sulfates and total sulfur after fitting peaks and to separately analyze overlapping spectral lines. The results of quantitative analysis of the chemical state of sulfur by the proposed X-ray fluorescence method were compared with the results of inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy and elemental analysis, as well as certified standard samples of soils and sediments. The results are in good agreement with each other.

How to cite: Sverchkov I.P., Povarov V.G. Quantitative determination of sulfur forms in bottom sediments for rapid assessment of the industrial facilities impact on aquatic ecosystems // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 267. p. 372-380. EDN PUUADY
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2024-03-30
  • Date accepted
    2024-06-13
  • Date published
    2024-07-04

Organotin pollutants in emerging coastal-marine sediments of the Kaliningrad shelf, Baltic Sea

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Based on two years of monitoring of modern bottom sediments of two sections of the Kaliningrad shelf of the Baltic Sea – “Curonian Spit” and “Northern Sambian” – an assessment of the sources of pollution with organotin compounds (OTs) and heavy metals was carried out. The content of individual organotin compounds and OTCs spectra obtained by gas chromatography with mass spectrometry of relatively coarse-grained bottom sediments indicate the presence of organotins in significant quantities – the total OTs content (ΣOTs) is from 0.6 to 8.3 ng/g. However, the content of tributyltin (TBT), the main component of anti-fouling systems for marine vessels and the most dangerous endocrine-disrupting compound among the hazardous substances for marine ecosystems, is at a low level (0-2.3 ng/g) in all studied samples and has not increased over the two-year observation period (biodegradation index 1.7-12.4). At the same time, the presence of abnormally high concentrations of mono-, triphenyl- and tricyclohexyltin in the sediments of the ”Northern Sambian” site (up to 30, 7 and 6.4 ng/g, respectively) indicates an additional source of pollution of coastal waters and shelf sediments (for example, plastic litter and agricultural runoff). The absence of significant shipping in the study areas ensures a consistently low level of pollution with tributyltin and its derivatives (less than 0.3 and 2.3 ng/g of TBT in 2017 and less than 0.1 and 1.3 ng/g in 2018 for the sites “Curonian Spit” and “Northern Sambian”, respectively), which indicates the activity of the processes of TBT transformation and self-cleaning of sandy sediments. However, the identified trends and their predictive accuracy require long-term observation and monitoring of the sediment environment using data on the deep-water part of the shelf, enriched in clay and humus components.

How to cite: Zhakovskaya Z.A., Kukhareva G.I., Bash P.V., Ryabchuk D.V., Sergeev A.Y. Organotin pollutants in emerging coastal-marine sediments of the Kaliningrad shelf, Baltic Sea // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 267. p. 356-371. EDN NLLQGT
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