This paper introduces, for applications in the mining industry, an innovative hybrid column form which consists of an inner steel tube, an outer fibre-reinforced polymer(FRP) tube and an annular concrete infill betwee...This paper introduces, for applications in the mining industry, an innovative hybrid column form which consists of an inner steel tube, an outer fibre-reinforced polymer(FRP) tube and an annular concrete infill between them. The two tubes may be concentrically placed to produce a section form more suitable for columns, or eccentrically placed to produce a section form more suitable for beams. The FRP is combined with steel and concrete in these hybrid structural members in such a way that the advantages of FRP are appropriately exploited while its disadvantages are minimized. As a result, these hybrid members possess excellent corrosion resistance as well as excellent ductility and seismic resistance. This paper summarizes existing research on this new form of structural members, and discusses their potential applications in mining infrastructure before presenting a summary of the recent and current studies at University of Wollongong(UOW) on their structural behaviour and design.展开更多
Social issues are increasingly recognized as significant inhibitors to mineral development projects. Increasingly, social risk is being recognized as a key factor determining the success of a mineral investment. Group...Social issues are increasingly recognized as significant inhibitors to mineral development projects. Increasingly, social risk is being recognized as a key factor determining the success of a mineral investment. Groups opposed to a mine for social or political reasons otten use environmental impacts, real or perceived, to prevent mine development. These risk factors depend largely on cultural perceptions of mining activities and must be understood as such in order to be appropriately managed. A first step to addressing social issues is inclusive, transparent and meaningful engagement of stakeholders. This process allows stakeholders to understand what the other parties value in order to collectively establish a common currency for development and the creation of mutual value. Expanding the scope of benefits and values a mine can bring is of increasing importance to mining companies who typically consult outside specialists remote from the mine site and late in the development timeline for this purpose. Training technical staff, engineers and geologists, who make initial and ongoing contact with local interests, in a holistic approach to mine development is crucial to successful and economic mineral development projects. Further extending this conversation to the genera/ public, media governments and non-govemmental organizations is a necessary step in developing a meaningful discourse on the benefit of mining activities.展开更多
The 12th Global Trajectory Optimization Competition challenged teams to design trajectories for mining asteroids and transporting extracted resources back to the Earth. This paper outlines the methods and results of t...The 12th Global Trajectory Optimization Competition challenged teams to design trajectories for mining asteroids and transporting extracted resources back to the Earth. This paper outlines the methods and results of the runner-up team, BIT-CAS-DFH, highlighting an overall analysis of the approach as well as detailed descriptions of the methods used. The approach begins with building databases to reduce computational costs in trajectory design. Then, asteroid sequences are determined. A segmentation-based approach was adopted to efficiently handle the large dataset. Each sequence was divided into four time-based segments. Segments 1 and 4 were generated forward and backward, respectively, using a breadth-first beam search. Candidates for these segments were refined using genetic and greedy algorithms. Segments 2 and 3 were then generated and selected forward and backward based on the results of Segments 1 and 4. Following this, a matching process paired candidates from Segments 2 and 3. With the asteroid sequences established, low-thrust trajectories were optimized using indirect methods. A local optimization strategy was employed to maximize the collected mass by fine-tuning rendezvous timings. The final solution is presented, with comparative analyses against other teams’ approaches.展开更多
Current practice of underground artificial ground freezing(AGF)typically involves huge refrigeration systems of large economic and environmental costs.In this study,a novel AGF technique is proposed deploying availabl...Current practice of underground artificial ground freezing(AGF)typically involves huge refrigeration systems of large economic and environmental costs.In this study,a novel AGF technique is proposed deploying available cold wind in cold regions.This is achieved by a static heat transfer device called thermosyphon equipped with an air insulation layer.A refrigeration unit can be optionally integrated to meet additional cooling requirements.The introduction of air insulation isolates the thermosyphon from ground zones where freezing is not needed,resulting in:(1)steering the cooling resources(cold wind or refrigeration)towards zones of interest;and(2)minimizing refrigeration load.This design is demonstrated using well-validated mathematical models from our previous work based on two-phase enthalpy method of the ground coupled with a thermal resistance network for the thermosyphon.Two Canadian mines are considered:the Cigar Lake Mine and the Giant Mine.The results show that our proposed design can speed the freezing time by 30%at the Giant Mine and by two months at the Cigar Lake Mine.Further,a cooling load of 2.4 GWh can be saved at the Cigar Lake Mine.Overall,this study provides mining practitioners with sustainable solutions of underground AGF.展开更多
This study investigated the dual potential of basalt deposits for dimensional stone quarrying and CO_(2)sequestration.The integrated approach combined unmanned aerial vehicle(UAV)surveys for surface modeling;electrica...This study investigated the dual potential of basalt deposits for dimensional stone quarrying and CO_(2)sequestration.The integrated approach combined unmanned aerial vehicle(UAV)surveys for surface modeling;electrical resistivity imaging(ERI),particularly vertical electrical sounding(VES)surveys for subsurface modeling;and a geographic information system(GIS)for area,volume,tonnage,and phase design.UAVs,in conjunction with GIS,provide high-resolution 3D models including digital terrain models(DTMs),digital elevation models(DEMs),and contour maps.These models were used to design a primary quarry while optimizing dimensional stone extraction and minimizing waste.The total area of the deposit is 1.46 km^(2),the volume is 88.08×10^(6)m^(3),and the total extractable material is 255.45×10^(6)t across eight phases.The ERI/VES survey identified three distinct lithological layers:fresh,fractured,and weathered basalts.The fresh basalt zone guides the extraction strategies for dimensional stones,whereas the fractured zone represents the optimal target for CO_(2)injection and storage.The low-resistivity weathered zone functions as an impermeable cap rock and prevents the upward migration of injected CO_(2).A geochemical analysis revealed a composition comparable to those of world-renowned CO_(2)sequestration sites,with 24.6%-28.2%of the mass composed of Ca^(2+),Mg^(2+),and Fe^(2+)cations.The estimated CO_(2)storage capacity is 0.211×10^(6)t,with each kilogram capable of storing 0.8 g of CO_(2).This pioneering study demonstrates the feasibility of integrating carbon capture initiatives with conventional mining operations.It presents a model for sustainable resource utilization,particularly in mountainous regions with fragile ecosystems.展开更多
The treatment of post-mining goafs presents a significant challenge for the coal industry,grappling with environmental safety and carbon neutrality goals.To address issues such as abandoned goafs,high carbon emissions...The treatment of post-mining goafs presents a significant challenge for the coal industry,grappling with environmental safety and carbon neutrality goals.To address issues such as abandoned goafs,high carbon emissions,and conflicts in backfill operations during coal mining,this study proposes a CO_(2)mineralization grouting method that targets voids in post-mining goafs.A two-stage mineralization process was designed with a focus on in-situ goaf grouting using open-pore materials.Grouting materials were prepared from carbide slag and fly ash,with cetyltrimethylammonium bromide(CTAB) as a surfactant and oleic acid acts as a foam stabilizer to regulate the pore structure alongside hydrogen peroxide(H_(2)O_(2)) used to regulate the pore structure.Scanning electron microscopy,nuclear magnetic resonance,unconfined compressive strength tests,and random forest regression identified the optimal mix:CTAB=1.2 g,oleic acid=5.0 g,H_(2)O_(2)=1.0g, water-to-solid ratio=0.7,Si/Al and Na/Al molar ratios are controlled at 3.0 and 2.7,respectively.Results from custom-built testing devices showed that open-pore materials doubled the mineralization depth compared with closed-pore materials.The method demonstrates technical feasibility and economic viability,while emphasizing the importance of rigorous risk management to ensure environmental and operational sustainability.Compatible with existing green mining systems,it offers economic and environmental benefits,providing a novel approach for low-carbon coal mining.展开更多
On 1–5 September 2014,the China Geological Survey Bureau held a 2015–2020 Geology and Mineral Resources Investigation and Assessment Special Planning and Deployment Meeting to plan the next six years in order to inv...On 1–5 September 2014,the China Geological Survey Bureau held a 2015–2020 Geology and Mineral Resources Investigation and Assessment Special Planning and Deployment Meeting to plan the next six years in order to invest nearly ten billion US dollars to implement 9 programs and 50 projects with the aim of developing geological survey work,and to play a leading role in ensuring sustained and stable development.展开更多
This study comprehensively evaluates the integration and effectiveness of green mining technologies within the mining sector,specifically focusing on mitigating the environmental impact of traditional mining practices...This study comprehensively evaluates the integration and effectiveness of green mining technologies within the mining sector,specifically focusing on mitigating the environmental impact of traditional mining practices.The primary goal is to establish a sustainable mining model that significantly reduces energy consumption and minimizes ecological disturbances.To achieve this,the study employs a mixed-method approach,integrating quantitative data analysis from monitored mining sites and qualitative insights from industry experts.Key parameters include energy consumption,greenhouse gas emissions,and reductions in chemical use.The findings reveal that effective integration of green mining technologies leads to significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions,lower energy consumption,and improved waste management compared to traditional methods.Specifically,the use of electric vehicles and renewable energy sources in mining operations has resulted in decreased carbon emissions and energy usage across studied sites.The research concludes that green mining practices,when supported by robust technological integration and regulatory frameworks,not only enhance environmental sustainability but also boost economic efficiency within the mining industry.This study recommends increased investment in the research and development of green technologies and calls for tighter regulatory oversight to ensure the widespread adoption and optimization of these practices.展开更多
Asteroid mining is a potentially lucrative method for extracting resources from space. Water resources found on asteroids can serve as fuel supplies for spacecrafts in deep space, and some asteroids are rich in precio...Asteroid mining is a potentially lucrative method for extracting resources from space. Water resources found on asteroids can serve as fuel supplies for spacecrafts in deep space, and some asteroids are rich in precious metals, offering immense potential economic value. The 12th Global Trajectory Optimization Competition, held in 2023, introduced a challenge to trajectory design for sustainable asteroid mining. Participating teams were tasked with maximizing the mining quantity over a 15-yr period by utilizing as many mining ships as possible to depart from the Earth, deploy miners on multiple asteroids, recover minerals, and return to the Earth. Σ team devised a strategy in which one ship completes one sequence, enabling the collection of minerals from 203 asteroids using 26 mining ships. This paper outlines the design methodology and outcomes of this approach, encompassing a preliminary analysis of the problem, optimization for the Earth departure and return, flight sequence search, and low-thrust conversion and optimization. Through methods such as asteroid selection and clustering, database building for Earth–asteroid transfers, global search with an impulsive model, local optimization with a low-thrust model, and conversion of remaining fuel into mining time, the computational efficiency was significantly enhanced, fuel consumption per unit mineral collection was reduced, and mining quantity was improved. Finally, the design outcomes of this approach are presented. The proposed trajectory design method enables the completion of multiple asteroid rendezvouses in a short time, providing valuable insights for future missions involving a single spacecraft conducting multiple rendezvouses with multiple asteroids.展开更多
基金the University of Wollongong through the 2013 URC Small Grants Scheme
文摘This paper introduces, for applications in the mining industry, an innovative hybrid column form which consists of an inner steel tube, an outer fibre-reinforced polymer(FRP) tube and an annular concrete infill between them. The two tubes may be concentrically placed to produce a section form more suitable for columns, or eccentrically placed to produce a section form more suitable for beams. The FRP is combined with steel and concrete in these hybrid structural members in such a way that the advantages of FRP are appropriately exploited while its disadvantages are minimized. As a result, these hybrid members possess excellent corrosion resistance as well as excellent ductility and seismic resistance. This paper summarizes existing research on this new form of structural members, and discusses their potential applications in mining infrastructure before presenting a summary of the recent and current studies at University of Wollongong(UOW) on their structural behaviour and design.
文摘Social issues are increasingly recognized as significant inhibitors to mineral development projects. Increasingly, social risk is being recognized as a key factor determining the success of a mineral investment. Groups opposed to a mine for social or political reasons otten use environmental impacts, real or perceived, to prevent mine development. These risk factors depend largely on cultural perceptions of mining activities and must be understood as such in order to be appropriately managed. A first step to addressing social issues is inclusive, transparent and meaningful engagement of stakeholders. This process allows stakeholders to understand what the other parties value in order to collectively establish a common currency for development and the creation of mutual value. Expanding the scope of benefits and values a mine can bring is of increasing importance to mining companies who typically consult outside specialists remote from the mine site and late in the development timeline for this purpose. Training technical staff, engineers and geologists, who make initial and ongoing contact with local interests, in a holistic approach to mine development is crucial to successful and economic mineral development projects. Further extending this conversation to the genera/ public, media governments and non-govemmental organizations is a necessary step in developing a meaningful discourse on the benefit of mining activities.
文摘The 12th Global Trajectory Optimization Competition challenged teams to design trajectories for mining asteroids and transporting extracted resources back to the Earth. This paper outlines the methods and results of the runner-up team, BIT-CAS-DFH, highlighting an overall analysis of the approach as well as detailed descriptions of the methods used. The approach begins with building databases to reduce computational costs in trajectory design. Then, asteroid sequences are determined. A segmentation-based approach was adopted to efficiently handle the large dataset. Each sequence was divided into four time-based segments. Segments 1 and 4 were generated forward and backward, respectively, using a breadth-first beam search. Candidates for these segments were refined using genetic and greedy algorithms. Segments 2 and 3 were then generated and selected forward and backward based on the results of Segments 1 and 4. Following this, a matching process paired candidates from Segments 2 and 3. With the asteroid sequences established, low-thrust trajectories were optimized using indirect methods. A local optimization strategy was employed to maximize the collected mass by fine-tuning rendezvous timings. The final solution is presented, with comparative analyses against other teams’ approaches.
文摘Current practice of underground artificial ground freezing(AGF)typically involves huge refrigeration systems of large economic and environmental costs.In this study,a novel AGF technique is proposed deploying available cold wind in cold regions.This is achieved by a static heat transfer device called thermosyphon equipped with an air insulation layer.A refrigeration unit can be optionally integrated to meet additional cooling requirements.The introduction of air insulation isolates the thermosyphon from ground zones where freezing is not needed,resulting in:(1)steering the cooling resources(cold wind or refrigeration)towards zones of interest;and(2)minimizing refrigeration load.This design is demonstrated using well-validated mathematical models from our previous work based on two-phase enthalpy method of the ground coupled with a thermal resistance network for the thermosyphon.Two Canadian mines are considered:the Cigar Lake Mine and the Giant Mine.The results show that our proposed design can speed the freezing time by 30%at the Giant Mine and by two months at the Cigar Lake Mine.Further,a cooling load of 2.4 GWh can be saved at the Cigar Lake Mine.Overall,this study provides mining practitioners with sustainable solutions of underground AGF.
基金supported by Jing-Jin-Ji Regional Integrated Environmental Improvement-National Science and Technology,Major Project(No.2024ZD12004)the National Social Science Fund of China(No.24BGL217)
文摘This study investigated the dual potential of basalt deposits for dimensional stone quarrying and CO_(2)sequestration.The integrated approach combined unmanned aerial vehicle(UAV)surveys for surface modeling;electrical resistivity imaging(ERI),particularly vertical electrical sounding(VES)surveys for subsurface modeling;and a geographic information system(GIS)for area,volume,tonnage,and phase design.UAVs,in conjunction with GIS,provide high-resolution 3D models including digital terrain models(DTMs),digital elevation models(DEMs),and contour maps.These models were used to design a primary quarry while optimizing dimensional stone extraction and minimizing waste.The total area of the deposit is 1.46 km^(2),the volume is 88.08×10^(6)m^(3),and the total extractable material is 255.45×10^(6)t across eight phases.The ERI/VES survey identified three distinct lithological layers:fresh,fractured,and weathered basalts.The fresh basalt zone guides the extraction strategies for dimensional stones,whereas the fractured zone represents the optimal target for CO_(2)injection and storage.The low-resistivity weathered zone functions as an impermeable cap rock and prevents the upward migration of injected CO_(2).A geochemical analysis revealed a composition comparable to those of world-renowned CO_(2)sequestration sites,with 24.6%-28.2%of the mass composed of Ca^(2+),Mg^(2+),and Fe^(2+)cations.The estimated CO_(2)storage capacity is 0.211×10^(6)t,with each kilogram capable of storing 0.8 g of CO_(2).This pioneering study demonstrates the feasibility of integrating carbon capture initiatives with conventional mining operations.It presents a model for sustainable resource utilization,particularly in mountainous regions with fragile ecosystems.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.52304198)National Key Research and Development Program(Nos.2023YFC3009100 and 2023YFC3009102)
文摘The treatment of post-mining goafs presents a significant challenge for the coal industry,grappling with environmental safety and carbon neutrality goals.To address issues such as abandoned goafs,high carbon emissions,and conflicts in backfill operations during coal mining,this study proposes a CO_(2)mineralization grouting method that targets voids in post-mining goafs.A two-stage mineralization process was designed with a focus on in-situ goaf grouting using open-pore materials.Grouting materials were prepared from carbide slag and fly ash,with cetyltrimethylammonium bromide(CTAB) as a surfactant and oleic acid acts as a foam stabilizer to regulate the pore structure alongside hydrogen peroxide(H_(2)O_(2)) used to regulate the pore structure.Scanning electron microscopy,nuclear magnetic resonance,unconfined compressive strength tests,and random forest regression identified the optimal mix:CTAB=1.2 g,oleic acid=5.0 g,H_(2)O_(2)=1.0g, water-to-solid ratio=0.7,Si/Al and Na/Al molar ratios are controlled at 3.0 and 2.7,respectively.Results from custom-built testing devices showed that open-pore materials doubled the mineralization depth compared with closed-pore materials.The method demonstrates technical feasibility and economic viability,while emphasizing the importance of rigorous risk management to ensure environmental and operational sustainability.Compatible with existing green mining systems,it offers economic and environmental benefits,providing a novel approach for low-carbon coal mining.
文摘On 1–5 September 2014,the China Geological Survey Bureau held a 2015–2020 Geology and Mineral Resources Investigation and Assessment Special Planning and Deployment Meeting to plan the next six years in order to invest nearly ten billion US dollars to implement 9 programs and 50 projects with the aim of developing geological survey work,and to play a leading role in ensuring sustained and stable development.
文摘This study comprehensively evaluates the integration and effectiveness of green mining technologies within the mining sector,specifically focusing on mitigating the environmental impact of traditional mining practices.The primary goal is to establish a sustainable mining model that significantly reduces energy consumption and minimizes ecological disturbances.To achieve this,the study employs a mixed-method approach,integrating quantitative data analysis from monitored mining sites and qualitative insights from industry experts.Key parameters include energy consumption,greenhouse gas emissions,and reductions in chemical use.The findings reveal that effective integration of green mining technologies leads to significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions,lower energy consumption,and improved waste management compared to traditional methods.Specifically,the use of electric vehicles and renewable energy sources in mining operations has resulted in decreased carbon emissions and energy usage across studied sites.The research concludes that green mining practices,when supported by robust technological integration and regulatory frameworks,not only enhance environmental sustainability but also boost economic efficiency within the mining industry.This study recommends increased investment in the research and development of green technologies and calls for tighter regulatory oversight to ensure the widespread adoption and optimization of these practices.
基金supported by the Space Debris and Near-Earth Asteroid Defense Research Project(KJSP2023020303)Youliang Wang is grateful to the Youth Innovation Promotion Association of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(2022146).
文摘Asteroid mining is a potentially lucrative method for extracting resources from space. Water resources found on asteroids can serve as fuel supplies for spacecrafts in deep space, and some asteroids are rich in precious metals, offering immense potential economic value. The 12th Global Trajectory Optimization Competition, held in 2023, introduced a challenge to trajectory design for sustainable asteroid mining. Participating teams were tasked with maximizing the mining quantity over a 15-yr period by utilizing as many mining ships as possible to depart from the Earth, deploy miners on multiple asteroids, recover minerals, and return to the Earth. Σ team devised a strategy in which one ship completes one sequence, enabling the collection of minerals from 203 asteroids using 26 mining ships. This paper outlines the design methodology and outcomes of this approach, encompassing a preliminary analysis of the problem, optimization for the Earth departure and return, flight sequence search, and low-thrust conversion and optimization. Through methods such as asteroid selection and clustering, database building for Earth–asteroid transfers, global search with an impulsive model, local optimization with a low-thrust model, and conversion of remaining fuel into mining time, the computational efficiency was significantly enhanced, fuel consumption per unit mineral collection was reduced, and mining quantity was improved. Finally, the design outcomes of this approach are presented. The proposed trajectory design method enables the completion of multiple asteroid rendezvouses in a short time, providing valuable insights for future missions involving a single spacecraft conducting multiple rendezvouses with multiple asteroids.
