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technological properties of cement slurry

Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2024-03-29
  • Date accepted
    2024-11-07
  • Date published
    2025-04-25

Well killing with absorption control

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The development of new fields with low-permeability reservoirs required the introduction of new production technologies, of which the most significant for well killing and underground repair were multi-ton hydraulic fracturing, the simultaneous operation of two or three development sites by one well grid, and an increase in the rate of fluid extraction. These global decisions in field development have led to the need to search for new effective materials and technologies for well killing. The article is devoted to the analysis of problems associated with the process of killing production wells in fields characterized by increased fracturing, both natural and artificial (due to hydraulic fracturing), with reduced reservoir pressure and a high gas factor. The relevance of the analysis is due to the increase in the number of development sites where complications arise when wells are killed. Particular attention is paid to technical solutions aimed at preserving the filtration and capacity properties of the bottomhole formation zone, preventing the absorption of process fluid, and blocking the manifestation of gas. The classification of block-packs used in killing is given, based on the nature of the process fluid. Suspension thickened water-salt solutions are considered, forming a waterproof crust on the surface of the rock, which prevents the penetration of water and aqueous solutions into the formation. This approach ensures the safety and efficiency of killing operations, especially when working with formations in which maintaining water saturation and preventing the ingress of the water phase are of critical importance. Modern trends in the development of technology are revealed, and promising areas for further improvement of well killing with absorption control are outlined.

How to cite: Saduakasov D.S., Zholbasarova A.T., Bayamirova R.U., Togasheva A.R., Tabylganov M.T., Sarbopeeva M.D., Kasanova A.G., Gusakov V.N., Telin A.G. Well killing with absorption control // Journal of Mining Institute. 2025. Vol. 272 . p. 119-135. EDN SBXUTZ
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
    2024-05-11
  • Date accepted
    2025-01-28
  • Date published
    2025-03-21

Research and development of technology for the construction of snow airfields for accommodating wheeled aircraft in Antarctica

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Construction of a new wintering complex at the Antarctic Vostok Station required prompt delivery of builders and mechanics to Progress Station to move them further to the work area. To solve this major logistical issue, a new landing site, later named Zenit, certified for accommodating heavy wheeled aircraft, was prepared in the Progress Station area from March to August 2022. Its snow pavement slab with a total area of 350 thousand m2 is from 100 to 120 cm high. It was made by applying snow layers with their subsequent compaction by a specially designed compaction platform for snow airfields suitable for heavy wheeled aircraft. As a result, the pavement has a surface hardness of at least 1 MPa. The layer from 30 to 60 cm has a hardness of at least 0.8 MPa, and the bottom layer at least 0.6 MPa. The first Il-76TD-90VD aircraft of the Russian company Volga-Dnepr was accommodated to the new runway on 7 November 2022. The aircraft landed in normal mode. The depth of the chassis wheels track after landing did not exceed 3 cm. The research provided in-depth understanding of the mechanisms for forming the supporting base of the runway from snow and ice in Antarctica. The experience gained can be used to solve similar issues in the Far North.

How to cite: Polyakov S.P., Popov S.V. Research and development of technology for the construction of snow airfields for accommodating wheeled aircraft in Antarctica // Journal of Mining Institute. 2025. p. EDN EKGJNF
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2023-12-15
  • Date accepted
    2024-06-13
  • Date published
    2025-02-25

Development of equipment and improvement of technology for inertial thickening of backfill hydraulic mixtures at the final stages of transportation

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The results of the study of the functioning of the developed thickening equipment as part of the stowing complex for the formation of a flow of high-concentration hydromixture are presented. To explain the operation of the hydrotransport system of the stowing complex, equipped with a thickener of the developed design, its basic diagram is presented. A mathematical model has been created that describes the mechanism of inertial sedimentation of a solid component of a hydraulic mixture in a working chamber equipped with hydrodynamic profiles. Interaction with the profile leads to flow stratification due to a change in the trajectory of movement and a decrease in speed. The interval of rational velocity of primary pulp entering the input of the working chamber of the inertial thickener is substantiated. The synthesis of solutions of the thickening process model is performed in the COMSOL Multiphysics and Ansys Fluent programs. This made it possible to eliminate physical contradictions in the operation of the equipment and justify the overall dimensions of its main elements, ensuring the implementation of the mechanism of inertial sedimentation of the slurry. It was found that the concentration of the thickened flow at the outlet branch pipe of the thickener working chamber is determined by the level of the primary hydraulic fluid velocity, the characteristic length of the section of interaction with the deflecting profile, and the ratio of the flow and attack angles. A nomogram of the dynamics of the change in the hydraulic fluid concentration in the section of the outlet branch pipe depending on the ratios of the overall dimensions of the deflecting profile of the working chamber was compiled. The results of the study allowed formulating recommendations for selecting the dimensions of the thickener's deflecting hydrodynamic profile to form a flow of hydraulic mixture with a concentration of about 50 % by weight. The developed equipment can be used in a stowage complex and will increase the range of supply of the stowage mixture. This is due to the fact that a flow of primary slurry with a low concentration, due to lower pressure losses, can be moved in a pipeline system over a greater distance than a flow with a high filler content. The use of a thickener at the final stage of transportation is intended to increase the concentration of the hydraulic mixture immediately before production.

How to cite: Volchikhina A.A., Vasilyeva M.A. Development of equipment and improvement of technology for inertial thickening of backfill hydraulic mixtures at the final stages of transportation // Journal of Mining Institute. 2025. Vol. 271 . p. 168-180. EDN MDHQZT
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
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
    2024-09-09
  • Date accepted
    2024-11-05
  • Date published
    2024-11-12

Acoustic emission criteria for analyzing the process of rock destruction and evaluating the formation of fractured reservoirs at great depths

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In order to study the mechanism of destruction of rocks of various genesis and the formation of fractured reservoirs at great depths, laboratory studies of rock samples in the loading conditions of comprehensive pressure with registration of acoustic emission (AE) and parameters of the process of changing the strength and deformation properties of samples were carried out. The spatial distributions of the hypocenters of AE events for each sample were investigated. By the nature of the distributions, the fracture geometry is described, then visually compared with the position of the formed macrofractures in the samples as a result of the tests. The time trends of the amplitude distribution b, set by the Guttenberg – Richter law, were calculated, which were compared with the loading curves and trends of the calculated AE activity. Based on the analysis of the AE process for three types of rocks – igneous (urtites), metamorphic (apatite-nepheline ores), and sedimentary (limestones) – parameterization of acoustic emission was carried out to determine the features of the deformation process and related dilatancy. As a result, three types of destruction of samples were identified, their geometry and changes in strength and seismic criteria were established.

How to cite: Trushko V.L., Rozanov A.O., Saitgaleev M.M., Petrov D.N., Ilinov M.D., Karmanskii D.A., Selikhov A.A. Acoustic emission criteria for analyzing the process of rock destruction and evaluating the formation of fractured reservoirs at great depths // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 269 . p. 848-858. EDN EGOJFL
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
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
    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
    2022-05-20
  • Date accepted
    2023-04-03
  • Date published
    2024-02-29

Impact of carbon dioxide on the main geotechnical quality criteria and preparation cost of cemented paste backfill

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There is a global upsurge in the use of cemented paste backfill (CPB) for various mining functions. However, the cost of the Portland cement binder is prohibitive, thus warranting strategies to reduce cement usage without overly diminishing the CPB quality. Since carbon dioxide is used for patented sand moulding processes, this study is premised on that physicochemical ability of CO2 to enhance the curing of consolidated inorganic materials. It evaluated the impact of carbon dioxide on the uniaxial compressive strength UCS and preparation cost of CPB standard samples (ASTM C109). The preparation cost was delimited to the purchase cost of the Portland cement. The backfill material was silica sand tailings with 4.5 wt.% Portland cement binder and a water-cement ratio of 7.6. Distilled water of pH 5.4 was used for the control samples while variable amounts of carbon dioxide were dissolved in distilled water to generate carbonated mixing water with pH values of 3.8; 4 and 4.2. The lower the carbonated water pH, the higher is the CO2 concentration. UCS tests were conducted on the samples after curing for 3, 7, 28, and 90 days. There was an observable increase in the UCSs and reduction in curing time with increasing carbon dioxide. Samples prepared with carbonated water of pH 3.8 had almost double the strength of those prepared with pure distilled water of pH 5.4, implying that more dissolved CO2 corresponds to higher CPB strength. This is supported by the trendline equations for the graphical simulation of strength on curing time. Thus, CPB with much less binder can be expected to attain the requisite UCS if carbon dioxide is incorporated. The average reduction in Portland cement consumption was 0.61 %, which translates to a cost saving of the same percentage points. If calculated over the operational life of a mine, this is a massive saving of millions of dollars.

How to cite: Bukasa P.M., Mashingaidze M.M., Simasiku S.L. Impact of carbon dioxide on the main geotechnical quality criteria and preparation cost of cemented paste backfill // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 265 . p. 45-54. EDN ZBZTKN
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2022-09-27
  • Date accepted
    2023-04-03
  • Date published
    2023-12-25

The study of displacing ability of lignosulfonate aqueous solutions on sand packed tubes

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This paper presents the findings of laboratory studies of rheological properties and oil displacing ability of aqueous solutions of technical grade lignosulfonate done on the sand packed tube models. The solutions containing lignosulfonate can be useful as displacement agents in development of watered reservoirs with heterogeneous porosity and permeability. When used at high concentrations, technical grade lignosulfonate can achieve selective shut-off while maintaining the reservoir pressure. The oil displacement efficiency is improved by means of redistributing the flows and selective isolation of high-permeability zones. The use of such compositions allows increasing the sweep of low-permeability reservoir zones by created pressure differential and displacing the residual oil.

How to cite: Dorfman M.B., Sentemov A.А., Belozerov I.P. The study of displacing ability of lignosulfonate aqueous solutions on sand packed tubes // Journal of Mining Institute. 2023. Vol. 264 . p. 865-873. EDN DZDUVM
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
    2022-08-10
  • Date accepted
    2023-02-28
  • Date published
    2024-02-29

Selection of the required number of circulating subs in a special assembly and investigation of their performance during drilling of radial branching channels by sectional positive displacement motors

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The task of sludge removal to the surface during construction of directional and horizontal wells and strongly curved radial channels is relevant. For stable operation of technical system “Perfobore”, it is proposed to use a circulating sub that ensures efficient cleaning of channel wellbore from the drilled rock. Two schemes of technical system “Perfobore” are considered, consisting of two seven-meter coiled tubing, a positive displacement motor, a bit and one circulating sub in the first scheme and two subs in the second scheme. For each of the schemes CFD modeling was implemented to determine values of pressure and speed. It was found out that the use of two circulating subs in the assembly is more efficient. In order to confirm the numerical experiment, bench tests were carried out. It was determined that the designed circulating sub can eject up to 25 % of pumped drilling fluid. The bench tests of full-size technical system “Perfobore” for drilling 14-meter channels with two circulating subs showed that the axial load on positive displacement motor produced by hydraulic loader was 3000 N and pressure drop depending on flow rate was 1.5-2.0 MPa. This allows the motor to operate at maximum power.

How to cite: Lyagov I.А., Lyagov A.V., Isangulov D.R., Lyagova А.А. Selection of the required number of circulating subs in a special assembly and investigation of their performance during drilling of radial branching channels by sectional positive displacement motors // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 265 . p. 78-86. EDN ZBPWKU
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2021-12-15
  • Date accepted
    2022-09-12
  • Date published
    2023-08-28

Substantiation and selection of the design parameters of the hydroficated equipment complex for obtaining backfill mixtures from current enrichment tailings

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The issue of the influence of the concentration of the solid phase on the reduction of energy costs and specific energy consumption during pulp transportation is considered. The procedure for preparing slurry from the current enrichment tailings is shown. A scheme is given and the operation of a hydroficated unit for thickening and hydraulic transport of backfill mixtures is described. A diagram of the movement of solid particles in one of the units of the complex – a lamellar thickener is shown. The summary table shows the main design parameters and characteristics of the lamellar thickener. A general view of the laboratory setup used for experimental studies with slurry at various concentrations is given. An example of calculating productivity, density and specific load is presented. The dependence of the shear stress on the velocity gradient was determined for various pulp concentrations. Experimental studies of the process of thickening the production of slurry from the current enrichment tailings have been carried out. It was found that the geometric dimensions of the thickener depend on the concentration of the solid phase in the transported mixture. It is concluded that the flow rate of the slurry and the head loss are functions of the rheological characteristics of the viscoplastic slurry and can be calculated from the derived calculated dependencies.

How to cite: Alexandrov V.I., Vatlina A.M., Makharatkin P.N. Substantiation and selection of the design parameters of the hydroficated equipment complex for obtaining backfill mixtures from current enrichment tailings // Journal of Mining Institute. 2023. Vol. 262 . p. 541-551. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2022.68
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2022-10-17
  • Date accepted
    2023-02-13
  • Date published
    2023-04-25

Environmental geotechnology for low-grade ore mining with the creation of conditions for the concurrent disposal of mining waste

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Due to the constantly deteriorating environmental situation in the regions with mining enterprises, the article considers the topical issue of disposing the maximum possible volume of waste from the mining and processing of low-grade ferrous ores through the creation of an effective underground environmental geotechnology. Traditional procedure with descending mining of reserves with a caving system does not allow waste to be disposed of in a gob. The idea is to use geotechnology based on the ascending order of mining the ore body, room excavation, leaving truncated pillars, and staggered arrangement of adjacent rooms in height, which makes it possible to form containers for waste disposal in the form of a cementless backfill. The main characteristics of the proposed procedure are investigated and compared with the traditional procedure of low-grade iron ores mining. It was established that from the point of view of the complete extraction of reserves and the unit costs for the preparatory-development operations, the processes are comparable, while in terms of the mining quality, the proposed option is much more efficient. Evaluation of environmental geotechnology by the criterion of waste disposal, performed according to the proposed methodology, showed that the combination of these technical solutions ensures the placement in the formed gob from 80 to 140% of all waste generated during the mining and beneficiation of low-grade iron ores.

How to cite: Sokolov I.V., Antipin Y.G., Rozhkov A.A., Solomein Y.M. Environmental geotechnology for low-grade ore mining with the creation of conditions for the concurrent disposal of mining waste // Journal of Mining Institute. 2023. Vol. 260 . p. 289-296. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2023.21
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2022-07-15
  • Date accepted
    2022-12-13
  • Date published
    2023-02-27

Mathematical modelling of displacement during the potash ores mining by longwall faces

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In favourable mining conditions, in particular at the Starobinskoye potash deposit (Belarus), longwall mining systems are used. They cause a high human-induced load on the subsoil, including intense deformation of the ground surface. The presented investigations are aimed at studying the dynamics of the ground surface displacement during the longwall face advance. Mathematical modelling was carried out in an elastic-plastic formulation with numerical implementation by the finite element method. The condition for the roof rocks collapse was opening of the contact between the seams when its boundaries were reached by shear fractures or formation of the tensile stresses area at the outcrop. With the working front advance, an increase in subsidence is observed, followed by its stabilization to a value determined by the process parameters of mining operations and the physical and mechanical properties of collapsed rocks. In this case, each point of the ground surface experiences sign-alternating horizontal deformations: when the front approaches, it causes tension, and when it moves away, compression. The obtained results of mathematical modelling are in good agreement with the data of instrumental measurements of the ground surface displacements, which indicates the adequate description of the rock mass deformation during the slice excavation of sylvinite seams by longwall faces.

How to cite: Baryakh A.A., Devyatkov S.Y., Denkevich E.T. Mathematical modelling of displacement during the potash ores mining by longwall faces // Journal of Mining Institute. 2023. Vol. 259 . p. 13-20. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2023.11
Modern Trends in Hydrocarbon Resources Development
  • Date submitted
    2022-05-31
  • Date accepted
    2022-11-17
  • Date published
    2022-12-29

Estimation of the influence of fracture parameters uncertainty on the dynamics of technological development indicators of the Tournaisian-Famennian oil reservoir in Sukharev oil field

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Issues related to the influence of reservoir properties uncertainty on oil field development modelling are considered. To increase the reliability of geological-hydrodynamic mathematical model in the course of multivariate matching, the influence of reservoir properties uncertainty on the design technological parameters of development was estimated, and their mutual influence was determined. The optimal conditions for the development of the deposit were determined, and multivariate forecasts were made. The described approach of history matching and calculation of the forecast of technological development indicators allows to obtain a more reliable and a less subjective history match as well as to increase the reliability of long-term and short-term forecasts.

How to cite: Kochnev A.A., Kozyrev N.D., Krivoshchekov S.N. Estimation of the influence of fracture parameters uncertainty on the dynamics of technological development indicators of the Tournaisian-Famennian oil reservoir in Sukharev oil field // Journal of Mining Institute. 2022. Vol. 258 . p. 1026-1037. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2022.102
Modern Trends in Hydrocarbon Resources Development
  • Date submitted
    2022-11-06
  • Date accepted
    2022-11-29
  • Date published
    2022-12-29

Technological sovereignty of the Russian Federation fuel and energy complex

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The review to achieve technological sovereignty of the Russian fuel and energy complex (FEC) in the ongoing geopolitical situation is presented in the article. The main scope has been to identify the key technology development priorities, restrictions and internal resources to overcome these utilizing the developed by the author the innovative methodology that consists of novel approaches to calculate level of local content, digitalization, business continuity andinteractions with military-industrial complex. Some organizational changes have been proposed to intensify the development of hi-tech products for the FEC and related industries, including establishment of the state committee for science and technology and the project office of lead engineers for the critical missing technologies. Two successful examples to utilize the described in the paper methodology is presented: the first domestic hydraulic fracturing fleet and polycrystalline diamond compact cutter bit inserts.

How to cite: Zhdaneev O.V. Technological sovereignty of the Russian Federation fuel and energy complex // Journal of Mining Institute. 2022. Vol. 258 . p. 1061-1078. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2022.107
Metallurgy and concentration
  • Date submitted
    2022-06-20
  • Date accepted
    2022-10-07
  • Date published
    2022-11-03

Evaluation of deformation characteristics of brittle rocks beyond the limit of strength in the mode of uniaxial servohydraulic loading

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One of the most reliable methods for assessing the physical and mechanical properties of rocks as a result of their destruction are laboratory tests using hard or servo-driven test presses. They allow to obtain reliable information about changes in these properties beyond the limit of compressive strength. The results of laboratory tests of rich sulfide ore samples are presented, which made it possible to obtain graphs of their extreme deformation. Both monolithic samples and samples with stress concentrators in the form of circular holes with a diameter of 3, 5 and 10 mm were tested. It was revealed that during the destruction of the samples, the modules of elasticity and deformation decrease by 1.5-2 times, and in the zone of residual strength – by 5-7 times.

How to cite: Gospodarikov A.P., Trofimov A.V., Kirkin A.P. Evaluation of deformation characteristics of brittle rocks beyond the limit of strength in the mode of uniaxial servohydraulic loading // Journal of Mining Institute. 2022. Vol. 256 . p. 539-548. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2022.87
Metallurgy and concentration
  • Date submitted
    2022-04-14
  • Date accepted
    2022-07-21
  • Date published
    2022-11-03

Technological mineralogy: development of a comprehensive assessment of titanium ores (exemplified by the Pizhemskoye deposit)

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Technological mineralogy of titanium ores is the basis for assessing their complexity. It enables, from a unified standpoint, to trace the entire course of changes in mineral matter through operating procedures, including beneficiation, processing, and obtaining target industrial products. The study targets are Pizhemskoye ilmenite-leucoxene sandstones, which are distinguished by a complex polymineral composition. Along with the main ore components, there are other metals with different speciation (isomorphic admixture, independent mineral phases). The optimal set of mineralogical analysis methods for the predictive assessment of their further use is substantiated exemplified by titanium ores of the Pizhemskoye deposit, which are complex, noted for a variable content of iron oxides and contain rare earth metals. Examinations by X-ray phase analysis and scanning electron microscopy confirm that the main titanium phases of sandstones are pseudorutile and a polymineral aggregate, “leucoxene”. Considering the granulometric peculiarities of the magnetic and non-magnetic fractions of the gravity concentrate, the prospects of technologies for processing titanium raw materials are discussed. Along with the problems of obtaining high-quality raw materials, the transformations of mineral phases as a result of extreme impacts and their physicochemical properties as a consequence of isomorphic substitution of a part of Ti atoms with natural modifier agents (Fe and V) in the synthesis of titanium oxide nanostructures for industrial applications are considered (photocatalytic nanoreactor).

How to cite: Kotova O.B., Ozhogina E.G., Ponaryadov A.V. Technological mineralogy: development of a comprehensive assessment of titanium ores (exemplified by the Pizhemskoye deposit) // Journal of Mining Institute. 2022. Vol. 256 . p. 632-641. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2022.78
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2021-05-27
  • Date accepted
    2022-09-06
  • Date published
    2022-11-10

Application of resonance functions in estimating the parameters of interwell zones

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It is shown that the use of force resonance leads to the effect of “shaking” the formation, followed by breaking up the film oil and involving it in the further filtration process. For the first time in oilfield geophysics, the concept of passive noise-metering method is justified for monitoring oil and gas deposit development by measuring the quality factor of the contours in the point areas of formation development channels in interwell zones. It is established that determining the depth of modulation for the reactive substitution parameter of the linear FDC chain is crucial not only for determining the parametric excitation in FDC attenuation systems, but also without attenuation in the metrological support for the analysis of petrophysical properties of rock samples from the wells. It is shown that based on the method of complex amplitudes (for formation pressure current, differential flow rates, impedance), different families of resonance curves can be plotted: displacement amplitudes (for differential flow rates on the piezocapacity of the studied formation section), velocities (amplitudes of formation pressure current) and accelerations (amplitudes of differential flow rates on the linear piezoinductivity of the FDC section). The use of predicted permeability and porosity properties of the reservoir with its continuous regulation leads to increased accuracy of isolation in each subsequent sub-cycle of new segment formation in the FDC trajectories, which contributes to a more complete development of productive hydrocarbon deposits and increases the reliability of prediction for development indicators.

How to cite: Batalov S.А., Andreev V.Е., Mukhametshin V.V., Lobankov V.М., Kuleshova L.S. Application of resonance functions in estimating the parameters of interwell zones // Journal of Mining Institute. 2022. Vol. 257 . p. 755-763. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2022.85
Geology
  • Date submitted
    2022-02-24
  • Date accepted
    2022-05-25
  • Date published
    2022-07-26

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

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

How to cite: Il’chenko V.L., Afanasieva E.N., Kaulina T.V., Lyalina L.M., Nitkina E.A., Mokrushina O.D. Litsa uranium ore occurrence (Arctic zone of the Fennoscandian Shield): new results of petrophysical and geochemical studies // Journal of Mining Institute. 2022. Vol. 255 . p. 393-404. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2022.44
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2021-05-31
  • Date accepted
    2022-03-24
  • Date published
    2022-07-13

Mathematical model of linear and non-linear proppant concentration increase during hydraulic fracturing – a solution for sequential injection of a number of proppant types

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It is known that much of the technology aimed at intensifying fluid inflow by means of hydraulic fracturing involves the use of proppant. In order to transport and position grains in the fracture, a uniform supply of proppant with a given concentration into the fracturing fluid is ensured. The aim of the operation is to eliminate the occurrence of distortions in the injection program of proppant HF. A mathematically accurate linear increase of concentration under given conditions is possible only if the transient concentration is correctly defined. The proposed approach allows to correctly form a proppant HF work program for both linear and non-linear increase in proppant concentration. The scientific novelty of the work lies in application of a new mathematical model for direct calculation of injection program parameters, previously determined by trial and error method. A mathematical model of linear and non-linear increase of proppant concentration during HF was developed. For the first time, an analytical solution is presented that allows direct calculation of parameters of the main HF stages, including transient concentrations for given masses of the various types of proppant. The application of the mathematical model in formation of a treatment plan allows maintaining correct proppant mass distribution by fractions, which facilitates implementation of information and analytical systems, data transfer directly from a work program into databases. It is suggested to improve spreadsheet forms used in production, which would allow applying mathematical model of work program formation at each HF process without additional labour costs. The obtained mathematical model can be used to improve the software applied in the design, modelling and engineering support of HF processes.

How to cite: Kochetkov A.V., Fattakhov I.G., Mukhametshin V.V., Kuleshova L.S., Mingulov S.G. Mathematical model of linear and non-linear proppant concentration increase during hydraulic fracturing – a solution for sequential injection of a number of proppant types // Journal of Mining Institute. 2022. Vol. 254 . p. 210-216. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2022.10
Modern Trends in Hydrocarbon Resources Development
  • Date submitted
    2021-09-17
  • Date accepted
    2022-04-07
  • Date published
    2022-12-29

Technique for calculating technological parameters of non-Newtonian liquids injection into oil well during workover

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Technique for automated calculation of technological parameters for non-Newtonian liquids injection into a well during workover is presented. At the first stage the algorithm processes initial flow or viscosity curve in order to determine rheological parameters and coefficients included in equations of rheological models of non-Newtonian fluids. At the second stage, based on data from the previous stage, the program calculates well design and pump operation modes, permissible values of liquid flow rate and viscosity, to prevent possible hydraulic fracturing. Based on the results of calculations and dependencies, a decision is made on the necessity of changing the technological parameters of non-Newtonian liquid injection and/or its composition (components content, chemical base) in order to prevent the violation of the technological operation, such as unintentional formation of fractures due to hydraulic fracturing. Fracturing can lead to catastrophic absorptions and, consequently, to increased consumption of technological liquids pumped into the well during workover. Furthermore, there is an increased risk of uncontrolled gas breakthrough through highly conductive channels.

How to cite: Mardashov D.V., Bondarenko А.V., Raupov I.R. Technique for calculating technological parameters of non-Newtonian liquids injection into oil well during workover // Journal of Mining Institute. 2022. Vol. 258 . p. 881-894. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2022.16