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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

Article preview

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
    2025-03-27
  • 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
    2023-07-31
  • Date accepted
    2024-11-07
  • Date published
    2025-02-25

Environmental assessment of biochar application for remediation of oil-contaminated soils under various economic uses

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Remediation is an important area of oil-contaminated soil restoration in Russia, since oil refining industry is the major one for Russia and neighbouring countries, and the issues of environmentally effective and economically profitable remediation of oil contamination have not yet been solved. Soils under various economic uses have different surface areas and degrees of soil particles envelopment with oil due to the presence or absence of cultivation, the amount of precipitation and plant litter. The introduction of various substances for remediation into oil-contaminated soils of steppes (arable land), forests, and semi-deserts, considering their differences, gives different results. Biochar is coal obtained by pyrolysis at high temperatures and in the absence of oxygen. The uniqueness of this coal lies in the combination of biostimulating and adsorbing properties. The purpose of the study is to conduct an environmental assessment of biochar application for remediation of oil-contaminated soils under various economic uses. The article compares the environmental assessments of biochar application in oil-contaminated soils with different particle size fraction. The following indicators of soil bioactivity were determined: enzymes, indicators of initial growth and development intensity of radish, microbiological indicators. We found that the most informative bioindicator correlating with residual oil content is the total bacteria count, and the most sensitive ones are the roots length (ordinary chernozem and brown forest soil) and the shoots length (brown semi-desert soil). The use of biochar on arable land and in forest soil (ordinary chernozem and brown forest soil) is less environmentally efficient than in semi-desert soil (brown semi-desert soil). The study results can serve to develop measures and managerial and technical solutions for remediation of oil-contaminated soils under various economic uses.

How to cite: Minnikova T.V., Kolesnikov S.I. Environmental assessment of biochar application for remediation of oil-contaminated soils under various economic uses // Journal of Mining Institute. 2025. Vol. 271 . p. 84-94. EDN UOQKTG
Economic Geology
  • Date submitted
    2024-03-18
  • Date accepted
    2024-11-07
  • Date published
    2025-01-14

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. p. EDN VQCWOF
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
    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
    2024-04-22
  • 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
    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
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
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2023-07-27
  • Date accepted
    2024-06-03
  • Date published
    2024-12-25

Normalized impulse response testing in underground constructions monitoring

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Impulse Response testing is a widespread geophysical technique of monolithic plate-like structures (foundation slabs, tunnel lining, and supports for vertical, inclined and horizontal mine shafts, retaining walls) contact state and grouting quality evaluation. Novel approach to data processing based on normalized response attributes analysis is presented. It is proposed to use the energy of the normalized signal calculated in the time domain and the normalized spectrum area and the average-weighted frequency calculated in the frequency domain as informative parameters of the signal. The proposed technique allows users a rapid and robust evaluation of underground structure’s grouting or contact state quality. The advantage of this approach is the possibility of using geophysical equipment designed for low strain impact testing of piles length and integrity to collect data. Experimental study has been carried out on the application of the technique in examining a tunnel lining physical model with a known position of the loose contact area. As examples of the application of the methodology, the results of the several monolitic structures of operating municipal and transport infrastructure underground structures survey are presented. The applicability of the technique for examining the grouting of the tunnel lining and the control of injection under the foundation slabs is confirmed. For data interpretation the modified three-sigma criteria and the joint analysis of the attribute’s behavior were successfully used. The features of the field work methodology, data collection and analysis are discussed in detail. Approaches to the techniques' development and its application in the framework of underground constructions monitoring are outlined. The issues arising during acoustic examination of reinforced concrete plate-like structures are outlined.

How to cite: Churkin A.A., Kapustin V.V., Pleshko M.S. Normalized impulse response testing in underground constructions monitoring // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 270 . p. 963-976. EDN BPIOTO
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2024-03-28
  • Date accepted
    2024-06-03
  • Date published
    2024-07-04

Assessing the effectiveness of sewage sludge in the reclamation of disturbed areas in the Kola subarctic zone (a case study of a sand quarry)

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An assessment was made of the effectiveness of reclamation using sewage sludge for the accelerated formation of a stable erosion-proof vegetation cover on the unproductive anthropogenic soil of a sand quarry in the context of the Kola North. The experiment, launched in 2017, included three treatments: control – no treatment, experiment 1 – fragmentary (50 %) application of sewage sludge, experiment 2 – continuous application. In the sixth growing season, anthropogenic soil samples were examined, and measurements of CO2 emissions were carried out. It was shown that the application of sewage sludge had a positive effect on the physicochemical and agrochemical properties of the soils: in situ pH and density decreased, hygroscopicity increased, available phosphorus and potassium increased. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were found between CO2 emissions in the control and experimental treatments. The content of organic carbon in the control treatment was lower than in the experimental ones; under fragmentary application of sewage sludge, it was three times lower, and under continuous application, it was nine times lower. Significant (p < 0.05) differences in the content of carbon and nitrogen in cold and hot water extracts between control and treatment samples were found under continuous application of sewage sludge. At the same time, by calculating the C/N ratio, a very low level of nitrogen was found in the humus. The main factors behind the variability of the estimated parameters were identified – the treatment itself and the method of its application, the contribution of the treatment alone was 60 %, the contribution of the application method was 14 %. Taking into account the economic factors, fragmentary application of sewage sludge onto the anthropogenic sand quarry soil is recommended to support the establishment of a stable erosion-proof phytocenosis.

How to cite: Ivanova L.A., Slukovskaya M.V., Krasavtseva E.A. Assessing the effectiveness of sewage sludge in the reclamation of disturbed areas in the Kola subarctic zone (a case study of a sand quarry) // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 267 . p. 444-452. EDN FNAPXK
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2024-03-29
  • Date accepted
    2024-06-03
  • Date published
    2024-07-04

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

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

How to cite: Guman O.M., Antonova I.A. Potential use of water treatment sludge for the reclamation of small-capacity sludge collectors // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 267 . p. 466-476. EDN MSIDNU
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2024-04-22
  • Date accepted
    2024-06-13
  • Date published
    2024-07-04

Comprehensive utilization of urban wastewater sludge with production of technogenic soil

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

How to cite: Bykova M.V., Malyukhin D.M., Nagornov D.O., Duka A.A. Comprehensive utilization of urban wastewater sludge with production of technogenic soil // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 267 . p. 453-465. EDN IAYJKS
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2023-05-19
  • Date accepted
    2024-03-05
  • Date published
    2024-08-26

Development and research of backfill compounds with improved elastic and strength properties for oil and gas well lining

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This article describes operations from the well construction cycle where the cement rock behind the casing is subjected to dynamic action (impacts of the drill stem during drilling and normalization of the cement sleeve, secondary drilling operations, hydraulic fracturing, etc.). The developed cement mortar compositions were tested following API 10B-2, API 10B-6, API STD-65-2, and GOST 28985-91 standards. The composition of the cement system without the use of imported components (CM-5) was developed, which improved elastic and strength properties compared to existing industry solutions. An improvement in the elastic and strength features and technological properties of cement rock when using epoxy resins was identified, the optimal composition of the cement-and-epoxy grout was determined, and the internal structure of the formed backfill rock, its permeability, and porosity were studied.

How to cite: Blinov P.A., Sadykov M.I., Gorelikov V.G., Nikishin V.V. Development and research of backfill compounds with improved elastic and strength properties for oil and gas well lining // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 268 . p. 588-598. EDN OWJFHS
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2023-08-02
  • Date accepted
    2023-12-27
  • Date published
    2024-04-25

Justification of the approaches to improve management strategy of the mining system based on the analysis of data on the mining of complex structural rock blocks

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Long-term activity of mining enterprises causes the necessity to substantiate the strategies of management of the mining and technical system functioning in terms of improvement of ore quality control, which is determined by its change in the course of field development due to the priority development of the main reserves and, as a consequence, forced transition to the mining of complex structural rock blocks with a decrease in the recovery percentage, which is typical in case the ore component meets the requirements of the feasibility study in terms of grade at substandard capacity. In this case, it is possible to identify the recovery percentage and the potential for its increase by analyzing the long-term activity of the mining and industrial enterprise, namely, by analyzing the data of mining complex structural rock blocks with the subsequent establishment of the relationship between the primary data on mining and geological conditions and information on the quality of the mineral obtained from the technological equipment. Therefore, the purpose of the research was to substantiate the necessity of improving the management strategy of the mining-technical system functioning, which consists in the fact that on the basis of analyzing the mining data of complex structural rock blocks it is possible to determine the ore mass losses and their quantity and to lay the basis for the development of decisions on its extraction. For this purpose, the collected data on the mining of complex structural rock blocks, accounting the geological and industrial type of extracted ores, were considered in modeling the conditions and studying the parameters of technological processes, the implementation of which provides additional products. It was revealed that the ore mass from substandard thickness layers is delivered to the dumps, and ore mass losses have been estimated at 25-40 % per year. It is proved that determination of ore mass losses based on the analysis of data on mining of complex structural rock blocks, as well as timely solution of this issue can significantly increase the production efficiency of mining and technical system. Taking into account for the results obtained, the options for optimizing the production of the mining and engineering system were proposed.

How to cite: Tsupkina M.V., Kirkov A.E., Klebanov D.A., Radchenko D.N. Justification of the approaches to improve management strategy of the mining system based on the analysis of data on the mining of complex structural rock blocks // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 266 . p. 316-325. EDN JOLUPJ
Geology
  • Date submitted
    2022-10-29
  • Date accepted
    2023-10-25
  • Date published
    2024-04-25

Assessment of rock massif sustainability in the area of the underground research laboratory (Nizhnekanskii Massif, Enisei site)

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The study presents the results of the research on geodynamic and geological conditions of the Enisei site (Krasnoyarsk Krai), chosen for the construction of an underground research laboratory. The laboratory is being built at a depth of 500 m to assess the suitability of the rock mass for burying high-level radioactive waste. The rocks consist of weakly fractured gneisses, granites, and dikes of metadolerites. Field observations were conducted on bedrock outcrops. They included the determination of rock mass quality indicators, measurement of rock fracturing, and a rating classification of stability using N.Barton's method. GNSS observations were also made to monitor surface deformations. These data were used to develop a three-dimensional structural model, including lithology, fault disruptions, intrusive bodies, elastic-strength properties of rocks, and the sizes of zones influenced by faulting. It will serve as a basis for boundary conditions and the construction of three-dimensional variational models of stress-strain states, identifying zones of concentration of hazardous stresses, and planning in situ geomechanical experiments in underground mines of the laboratory. The obtained values of the modified QR index for the main types of rocks allowed their classification as stable and moderately stable, corresponding to strong and very strong rocks on Barton's scale and the massif rating according to geomechanical classification.

How to cite: Akmatov D.Z., Manevich A.I., Tatarinov V.N., Shevchuk R.V., Zabrodin S.M. Assessment of rock massif sustainability in the area of the underground research laboratory (Nizhnekanskii Massif, Enisei site) // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 266 . p. 167-178. EDN ECCWUV
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
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2023-07-04
  • Date accepted
    2023-09-20
  • Date published
    2023-10-27

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

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

How to cite: Brushkov A.V., Alekseev A.G., Badina S.V., Drozdov D.S., Dubrovin V.A., Zhdaneev O.V., Zheleznyak M.N., Melnikov V.P., Okunev S.N., Osokin A.B., Ostarkov N.A., Sadurtinov M.R., Sergeev D.O., Fedorov R.Y., Frolov K.N. Structure maintenance experience and the need to control the soils thermal regime in permafrost areas // Journal of Mining Institute. 2023. Vol. 263 . p. 742-756. EDN IMQTQY
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2022-10-30
  • Date accepted
    2023-09-20
  • Date published
    2024-02-29

Combined method of phytoremediation and electrical treatment for cleaning contaminated areas of the oil complex

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The scale of land pollution with oil waste necessitates the use of economical and effective methods of recultivation. Phytoremediation is one of the simplest methods, but it has a number of limitations, so additional preparation of the territory is often required before it is carried out. Preliminary electrical preparation and subsequent seeding of special phytoremediants are of interest. Passing a constant electric current through the soil volume under a low voltage removes toxicants from deep soil layers even with flooding. In addition, it reduces pollutant content in the upper layer, where the plants root system is located, which creates more favorable conditions for phytoremediants. Adequately selected types of plants will ensure additional soil cleaning, improve its structure and air exchange. The results of two research directions are presented. Experiments on the study of plant resistance to oil-contaminated soil substrate allowed establishing contamination thresholds at which it is advisable to sow a particular species, and to choose optimal phytoremediants. The study of the oil-containing soil cleaning in a monocathodocentric electrochemical installation with the fixation of main characteristics (oil products concentration, soil temperature, volt-ampere characteristics) allows us to develop technical measures to prepare territories for phytoremediation taking into account the relief features.

How to cite: Shulaev N.S., Kadyrov R.R., Pryanichnikova V.V. Combined method of phytoremediation and electrical treatment for cleaning contaminated areas of the oil complex // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 265 . p. 147-155. EDN WJRQDO
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2021-10-27
  • Date accepted
    2023-06-20
  • Date published
    2023-12-25

Geomechanical analysis of the impact of the new tunnels construction in the vicinity of existing underground subway structures on the state of the soil massif

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The specificity of the behavior of the soil massif near the tunnel under construction in difficult mining conditions is considered. It was revealed through the joint interpretation of the results of geophysical measurements in the tunnel and computer simulation. The results of field geophysical studies to identify areas of decompacted soil behind the lining in two existing tunnels during successive drilling of two new tunnels under them are described. A method to analyze the response of the lining to impact was used providing for the calculation of its energy. It has been established that the decompaction zones are mainly located in the lateral lower areas of the tunnel. To substantiate the mechanism of formation of cavities, computer simulations were carried out using the finite element method with the COMSOL Multiphysics software. The finite element model is built on the Drucker – Prager criterion in the variant of a two-dimensional problem statement. It is shown that at the initial position of two old tunnels, the areas of decompaction can develop mainly on the sides. The position of the zones changes significantly when excavating two new tunnels. Soil decompaction zones appear between the tunnels and there is a tendency for the areas to spread to the upper point of the tunnel. According to geophysical data time delays in the impact of new tunnels on the existing line are noted, as well as a decrease in the size of decompacted soil areas over time. There is a satisfactory agreement between the positions of the decompaction areas and voids obtained by the geophysical method and the results of numerical simulation.

How to cite: Nabatov V.V., Voznesenskii A.S. Geomechanical analysis of the impact of the new tunnels construction in the vicinity of existing underground subway structures on the state of the soil massif // Journal of Mining Institute. 2023. Vol. 264 . p. 926-936. EDN JNNOAW
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
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2022-08-24
  • Date accepted
    2023-02-15
  • Date published
    2023-08-28

Modelling of the stress-strain state of block rock mass of ore deposits during development by caving mining systems

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The article is devoted to the analysis of approaches to modeling the stress-strain state of a block rock mass in the vicinity of a single mine workings and in the area of rock cantilever influence during the development of the Khibiny apatite-nepheline deposits. The analysis of the existing in international engineering practice ideas about tectonic disturbances as a geomechanical element and the experience of predicting the stress-strain state of a block rock mass was carried out. On the basis of the analysis, the formulation of the basic modeling tasks is carried out and its main results are presented. Methodological recommendations for solving similar problems were developed.

How to cite: Protosenya A.G., Belyakov N.A., Bouslova M.A. Modelling of the stress-strain state of block rock mass of ore deposits during development by caving mining systems // Journal of Mining Institute. 2023. Vol. 262 . p. 619-627. EDN EGDXKM
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
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2021-10-31
  • Date accepted
    2023-03-02
  • Date published
    2023-12-25

Improvement of technological schemes of mining of coal seams prone to spontaneous combustion and rock bumps

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On the example of the Alardinskaya mine, the problem of underground mining of seams prone to spontaneous combustion and rock bumps in the conditions of the Kondomsky geological and economic region of the Kuznetsk coal basin is considered. The contradictions in the requirements of regulatory documents for the width of the inter-panel coal pillars in the mining of seams with longwalls in conditions of endogenous fire hazard and in the mining of seams that are dangerous due to geodynamical phenomena are discussed. These contradictions impede the safe mining of seams using traditionally used layouts with the danger of spontaneous combustion of coal and rock bumps. A mining-geomechanical model is presented, which is used for numerical three-dimensional simulation of the stress-strain state of a rock mass with various layouts for longwall panels using the finite element method. The results of the numerical analysis of the stress state of the rock mass immediately before the rock bump are presented, and the main factors that contributed to its occurrence during the mining of the seam are established. A dangerous degree of stress concentration in the coal seam near the leading diagonal entries is shown, especially in conditions of application of abutment pressure from the edge of panels’ gob. The analysis of the features of stress distribution in the inter-panel pillar at different widths is carried out. Recommendations for improving the layout for the development and mining of coal seams that are prone to spontaneous combustion and dangerous in terms of rock bumps in the conditions of Alardiskaya mine have been developed. The need for further studies of the influence of pillars for various purposes, formed during the mining of adjacent seams, on the stress-strain state of previously overmined and undermined seams is shown.

How to cite: Sidorenko A.A., Dmitriev P.N., Alekseev V.Y., Sidorenko S.A. Improvement of technological schemes of mining of coal seams prone to spontaneous combustion and rock bumps // Journal of Mining Institute. 2023. Vol. 264 . p. 949-961. EDN SCAFOE
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2022-05-25
  • Date accepted
    2023-02-02
  • Date published
    2023-08-28

Evaluation of the shear strength of rocks by cracks based on the results of testing samples with spherical indentors

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Experimental data on the relationship of the residual shear strength of rocks in closed cracks with the functional characteristics of intact rocks – the tensile and compressive components of adhesion, the roughness of the crack surfaces, and the level of normal stresses are presented. A unified integrated approach determines the shear strength of intact and destroyed rocks, the residual shear strength of closed rough cracks has been developed. The approach provides for the selection of stress intervals corresponding to different types of fracture, for each of which a strength criterion is proposed, expressed in terms of functional characteristics of intact rock. An express method for estimating the residual shear strength of rocks by cracks with a rough surface has been developed, in which an improved method of loading samples with spherical indentors is used as a basic test method. The express method implements the transition from the data of mechanical tests of samples with spherical indentors to the shear strength indicators for cracks in the rock mass, taking into account the level of normal stresses and the roughness of the crack surfaces measured in field conditions. In this case the roughness scale developed by Barton is used. The express method is informative and available in the fieldwork.

How to cite: Korshunov V.A., Pavlovich A.A., Bazhukov A.A. Evaluation of the shear strength of rocks by cracks based on the results of testing samples with spherical indentors // Journal of Mining Institute. 2023. Vol. 262 . p. 606-618. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2023.16