Purpose. Research and development of an economic and legal concept for the use of AI-technologies in mineral mining based on an experience analysis of their application in global mining practice, including assessment of legal and technological support. Methods. The research was conducted using a review-based economic and legal approach, consisting of assessing and analysing the symbiosis of positive and negative aspects of AI-technology implementation in mining enterprises. This paper reviews legislation using legal analysis processes, including comparative, systematic, and formal-legal methods, which ensure the regulation of AI-relations. To study the key aspects accompanying the processes of using AI-technology in mining enterprises, European, Ukrainian and Kazakh regulations were systematized, and econometric modelling of the effectiveness of using AI-technologies was performed to assess operating costs. Findings. The subject structure and principles of AI-relations, as well as the scope of application of AI-technologies in mining enterprises, which should be taken into account when implementing them in the mining industry, have been identified. Requirements have been formulated for AI-systems that are used and/or may be used in the mining industry. A group of barriers accompanying the use of AI-technologies in mining enterprises has been systematized and analyzed. The author's AI-Concept framework for the mining industry has been developed. A set of preparatory measures for the implementation of AI-technologies is proposed, and the directions and factors accompanying their use in mining enterprises are examined. Originality. A model of the AI-Concept for the mining industry has been developed, as well as conceptual recommendations for the creation of AI-enterprises, which, in the presented, integrated form, have not been developed in the legislation and scientific literature of the world's leading mining countries. Practical implications. The research results can be used in the process of developing economic and legal relations in the mining industry. Conceptual recommendations will be useful in the phased creation of mining AI-enterprises. Their implementation will enable the resolution of pressing social-economic, investment, and environmental issues in the context of a fair transformation of mining regions.
Purpose. To investigate the mineralogical, geochemical, and technological characteristics of the K & ouml;pr & uuml;alan (Ayd & imath;n, SW Turkey) feldspar deposit. The study aims to determine its suitability for industrial ceramic applications and to evaluate how quality-based resource management influences both the economic viability and environmental sustainability of the mining operation. Methods. Geochemical analysis of 222 samples was conducted together with X-ray diffraction (XRD) to determine mineral assemblages. Technological tests, including water absorption and shrinkage measurements, were performed to assess industrial performance. The obtained data were integrated into 3D geological models and geostatistical simulations to evaluate various mine design scenarios, with a focus on optimizing stripping ratios and reducing material handling. Findings. Results indicate that the deposit consists predominantly of felsic metamorphic rocks with high SiO2 (64.76-74.87%), elevated alkali oxides (Na2O + K2O), and low Fe2O3 (<= 1.72%). XRD analysis confirmed a feldspar-rich composition with an average content of 62%. Integration of a multi-tier quality classification into the production sequence significantly increases the project's economic value. Optimized extraction sequences also reduce the stripping ratio, thereby lowering the operational carbon footprint by minimizing waste haulage and energy consumption. Originality. A novel framework is proposed that transforms static mineralogical classification into a dynamic decision-support system. The approach integrates 3D geological modelling with geostatistical simulations to quantify trade-offs between quality-driven extraction, economic performance, and environmental sustainability in industrial mineral deposits. Practical implications. Implementation of the proposed quality-tier system enables operators to optimize production planning, reduce waste management costs, and improve the environmental sustainability of industrial mineral extraction through lower green-house gas emissions.
Purpose. This study integrates unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and Magnetic and 2D Electrical Resistivity Tomography (2D ERT) surveys to delineate subsurface laterite ore mineralization zones while reducing exploration costs. UAV imagery enabled the reconstruction of high-resolution digital elevation models and orthomosaics, providing detailed topographic information for survey planning. Methods. Magnetic survey integrated with 2D electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) profiles were applied to characterize subsurface lithology and identify layers such as topsoil, shale, and laterite. Findings. The ERT survey reveals that the topsoil is 3 meters thick and has a resistivity range of 10-50 Omega.m. The resistivity of shale varied between 50 and 150 Omega.m, with a thickness of two meters. The laterite ore was identified with resistivity values between 150 and 1200 Omega & centerdot;m and a thickness of 5 m. Magnetic surveys identified magnetic anomalies of 200-600 nT, estimated at a depth of 3-5 m using forward modeling. Regional-scale interpretations from total magnetic intensity (TMI), reduced-topole (RTP), and continuation maps highlighted the detailed distribution of the magnetic anomalies throughout the study area, lithological variations, fault systems, and deep-seated magnetized bodies. Originality. This study demonstrates an integrated, low-cost workflow for lateritic mineralization that uses detailed geophysical data, including magnetic methods, 2D ERT, and UAV photogrammetry. Conventional techniques are quite expensive relative to the value of the ore. Practical implications. The results demonstrate that the integration of aerial photogrammetry, magnetic surveys, and 2D electrical resistivity tomography provides an efficient and cost-effective approach for delineating laterite ore mineralization zones and can serve as a viable alternative to conventional exploration methods.
Purpose. The research aims to assess the impact of geological disturbances located in the bottom part of the super-deep Kacharsky Ore Quarry on the stress-strain state (SSS) of its walls and to determine the safety factor of the walls, taking into account the complex geological situation. Methods. Fault plane modelling methodology is based on 3D finite-element analysis using the RS3 Rocscience software. Fault zone is represented by a medium with a system of fractures. Fracture characteristics, such as openness, contact filler type, and surface quality are achieved by selecting the normal and shear stiffness of the contact. The strength and deformation properties of rock inside the fault zone are defined by low geological index values (GSI = 20), corresponding to the "poor" quality mass according to the Hoek-Brown classification. The main mass outside the fault zone is represented by elastic-plastic medium, where the transition to inelastic deformation stage is determined by the Mohr-Coulomb failure criterion. Findings. FEM-analysis of the stress-strain state of the Kacharsky quarry walls at various stages of mining, taking into account faults in its bottom part, provides a safety factor (FoS) that is 28-30% lower than that obtained without considering the faults. Parametric analysis shows that for normal stiffness values of the fracture-filling material up to 2.5 GPa/m, the difference in the realized shear strains is most significant. When the Er index, which characterizes the ratio of material stiffness inside and outside the fault zone, decreases from Er = 0.2 to Er = 0.05, the maximum shear strains in the bottom part of the quarry increase from 0.05 to 0.075, that is, by 50%. Thus, a weaker and more disintegrated medium in the fault zone provokes the development of shear strains and causes a decrease in the stability of the walls. Originality. For the first time, under real mining-geological conditions of deep ore quarry, a pattern of change in safety factor of steeply sloping walls has been identified, taking into account geological faults in the bottom part of the quarry. A dependence of shear strains on the normal stiffness index of fractures and the ratio of stress-strain modules of the rock medium inside and outside the fault zone has been found. Practical implications. The wall safety factor (FoS) value at each stage of mining is a key parameter for adoption of technological decisions and regulations. The established fact that the stability of the walls has decreased to a critical level (FoS = 1.1) at the final stage of mining due to the presence of faults may serve as a basis for revising the technological scheme of ore mining at the final stage, in particular, to reduce the slope angle of the benches.
Purpose. To investigate the regularities of reactive species formation during the plasma treatment of multicomponent wastewater from the mining and petroleum industries, as well as to assess their role in contaminant transformation and removal efficiency. Methods. Laboratory experiments were carried out using a specially designed plasma-liquid reactor operating under high-frequency electrical discharge conditions (10-25 kV, 10-30 kHz, interelectrode gap 3-7 mm). The study included determination of the initial physicochemical characteristics of wastewater, including pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, and concentrations of heavy metals (Cu, Zn, Cd). During plasma treatment, the formation of reactive species (center dot OH, O3, H2O2) was analyzed, and a kinetic model was applied to describe contaminant removal dynamics and treatment efficiency. Findings. It was established that plasma treatment leads to the formation of hydroxyl radicals at a rate of (1-5)& centerdot;10-6 mol & centerdot;L-1 & centerdot;s-1, ozone in the concentration range of 10-6-10-4 mol & centerdot;L-1, and hydrogen peroxide accumulation within 10-80 mg/L, thereby creating a pronounced oxidative environment. Copper concentration decreased from 20 to 0.5 mg/L (97.5%), zinc from 15 to 0.4 mg/L (97.3%), and cadmium from 0.5 to 0.02 mg/L (96.0%). The degree of organic contaminant degradation reached 70-90%. It was shown that the intensity of reactive species formation strongly depends on discharge parameters, while the proposed kinetic model adequately describes the experimentally observed treatment dynamics. Originality. The study provides a comprehensive experimental and model-based analysis of reactive species formation during the plasma treatment of highly mineralized multicomponent wastewater from the mining and petroleum industries. Quantitative relationships were established among discharge parameters, reactive species generation, and contaminant removal efficiency. Practical implications. The obtained results confirm the potential of plasma technologies for the advanced treatment of industrial wastewater with complex composition and high salinity. Practical implementation of the proposed approach may contribute to improved environmental safety, reduced reagent consumption, lower sludge generation, and expanded opportunities for water reuse in mining and petroleum production processes.
Purpose. The research aims to develop and experimentally validate a methodology for terrestrial digital stereophotogrammetric surveying to monitor deformations of deep quarry walls with determination of optimal parameters for the survey basis and initial observation cycle, providing the necessary accuracy in determining deformation values. Methods. The research involved designing and conducting a quarry survey on the initial and subsequent dates of deformation observations using a professional digital camera. The obtained digital images were processed using an improved version of the traditional photogrammetric method - the displacement method. In order to improve the efficiency of deformation monitoring using photogrammetric method, requirements for conducting an initial cycle of observations with the determination of optimal parameters for data capture and processing have been substantiated. Findings. Based on the results of using terrestrial digital surveying and an improved photogrammetric displacement method, the deformation values at the experimental sites of the quarry walls have been determined with a sufficiently high accuracy during image processing. Requirements for performing the initial cycle of observations of deformation processes have been substantiated, and the influence of its parameters on the effectiveness of further monitoring has been identified. The practical effectiveness of the developed methodology was confirmed during the study of deformations caused by mining operations at the quarries of Private Joint Stock Company "Central Iron Ore Enrichment Works" (PJSC "Central GOK"). Originality. Optimal parameters for the initial cycle of observations of quarry wall deformations using the terrestrial digital surveying method have been determined. Patterns have been identified between the accuracy of determining the coordinates of points using a created digital terrain model and the spatial position of the survey basis. Requirements for computing equipment characteristics that ensure efficient processing of large volumes of digital images and increased productivity of office work have been substantiated. Practical implications. The photogrammetric displacement method for determining deformations from images taken at different times has been improved. The developed method for monitoring shear processes and other types of deformations based on this method provides for the determination of the values of spatial changes in the position of examined object points with the necessary accuracy and prompt obtaining of information about its current state and prospects for further safe operation.
Purpose. The purpose of this paper is to present a conceptual design for laboratory-scale equipment for the controlled generation and investigation of small quantities of methane hydrate under variable pressure, temperature, and lithological conditions, enabling reproducible experimental studies that simulate natural methane hydrate formation environments. Methods. The study includes a review of recent global research and pilot-scale activities related to methane hydrate exploration, occurrence, and production. Key geological and thermodynamic conditions governing methane hydrate formation are summarized. Based on this background, an engineering concept for a laboratory apparatus is developed, including a high-pressure chamber, a gas compression system, and a temperature control unit, designed to operate within the methane hydrate stability zone. Findings. The proposed apparatus is compact, modular, and suitable for installation in standard university laboratory conditions. It allows controlled variation of pressure and temperature parameters required for methane hydrate formation while maintaining operational safety and repeatability. The design relies on commercially available components and can be assembled with relatively modest financial and technical resources. Originality. The presented solution is a practical, cost-effective alternative to complex, expensive laboratory systems commonly used for methane hydrate research. Its originality lies in integrating accessible industrial components into a simplified experimental setup capable of reproducing key conditions for methane hydrate formation in controlled laboratory settings. Practical implications. The proposed laboratory system provides researchers, educators, and students with a flexible experimental platform for studying methane hydrates in water or porous media. It supports interdisciplinary research in geosciences, energy engineering, and environmental studies, and can be effectively used for academic training and experimental research.
Purpose. To evaluate the spatial distribution and mineralogical variability of naturally occurring asbestos (NOA) in the Bajgora region and assess its environmental significance in relation to geological conditions and current land-use patterns, to identify asbestos-bearing zones and provide a spatial basis for environmental hazard assessment. Methods. A combined mineralogical, statistical, and geospatial approach was applied. Twenty representative rock samples were collected across the study area and analyzed using X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX) to identify and quantify asbestos-related mineral phases. Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and principal component analysis (PCA) were used to evaluate mineralogical variability and phase associations. Spatial interpolation using Kriging was performed in GIS software to visualize the distribution of serpentine-group minerals and chrysotile and to support environmental hazard zoning. Findings. The results indicate pronounced mineralogical heterogeneity within the Bajgora region, dominated by serpentine-group minerals, including lizardite (with multiple polytypes), antigorite, and subordinate chrysotile. Lizardite is the most widespread phase, reflecting low-temperature serpentinization, whereas antigorite locally dominates under higher-temperature, higher-pressure conditions. Chrysotile occurs discontinuously and is spatially restricted to specific structural zones, such as fracture systems and lithological contacts. Statistical and multivariate analyses confirm non-random spatial patterns and strong geological control on mineral distribution. Originality. This study provides one of the first integrated mineralogical-statistical-spatial assessments of NOA in the Bajgora region, linking detailed phase characterization with spatial modeling to support site-specific environmental risk evaluation in ophiolitic terrains of the Western Balkans. Practical implications. The generated spatial distribution maps provide a practical tool for environmental risk zoning, land-use planning, and prioritizing monitoring and mitigation measures in areas affected by naturally occurring asbestos.
Purpose. The research aims to use experimental and theoretical studies in assessing the nature of fracture of cracked crystalline mass samples with a complex structure in the brittle-plastic area under the action of triaxial loading. Methods. To assess the influence of physical-mechanical properties of a cracked crystalline mass and its structural peculiarities on the change in the nature of its fracture, experimental studies were conducted on rock samples. Samples were taken from the faces of preparatory workings in uranium mines, tunnels of the subway under construction (the city of Dnipro) and from the benches of granite quarries in Ukraine. The tests were conducted using proven methods in accordance with current government standards. During the testing process, the samples and the nature of crack formation were assessed synchronously using a GAOSUO P scanning microscope, and their characteristics were assessed using acoustic emission (AE) method and CT-scanning with an industrial Micro-CT scanner, the results of which were processed using Avizo software. Findings. During testing of the samples, it was found that their uniaxial compressive strength and fracture mode are similar. Tests have revealed several types of crack inclination angles depending on bedding. With an increase in the value of 63, the values of o1p and od increase almost linearly, while the values of o1p and od of the samples first decrease, and then increase with an increase in the /3 value. It was revealed that between the crack opening and the stress state of the crack surfaces at stresses o1 and o2, additional strain of the sample is formed exclusively in the direction of o3. Originality. It was determined that during testing of samples, the value of o3 has a significant influence on the "stress-strain" curve characteristics with different values of /3. Then, an increase in o3, o1-o3, 1 pound, 3 pound, v pound values indicates the ability to resist external loads and strains when testing cracked rock samples. It was proven that when 63 is low, the linear elastic component in the "stress-strain" curve section has a greater proportion than in the yield curve section with an increase of o3. Practical implications. The research conducted served as a basis for further development of theory and methods in fracture mechanics of cracked (stratified) crystalline mass, disaster prediction during mining operations in the construction of mine workings and tunnels at mining enterprises.
Purpose. This research aims to explore the peculiarities of chemical soil pollution and analyse the patterns of chemical element migration in the waste heap impact zone of the Bogdanka Mine in the Lublin Coal Basin compared to the control area. To achieve the purpose set, soil samples were taken from various ecotopes at depths of 0-5, 5-10, and 10-15 cm, the ecological state of the territories was assessed, and a statistical analysis of the chemical element content was performed. Methods. The research was based on methods of statistical data processing, correlation and cluster analysis, multidimensional ecotope ordination using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and canonical discriminant analysis. Sampling was conducted in accordance with the ISO 10381-8:2006 standard. Analytical determinations of elemental composition were performed using X-ray fluorescence spectrometry on an ElvaX Light SDD device. Findings. Significant spatial heterogeneity in the distribution of macro-and microelements in soils of the waste heap impact zone has been identified. Increased concentrations of Mg, Al, S, K, Ti, V, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Sr, Y, and Pb were recorded at the foot of the waste heap. The maximum values of individual elements are typical for specific ecotopes, in particular Mn and Zr for coastal and forest areas. The highest exceedance of maximum permissible concentrations was found for Cu, Ni, and Zn (up to 22.3, 20.1, and 30 times, respectively). Originality. The scientific novelty of the research consists in determining the spatial gradients of chemical soil pollution in the impact zone of coalmine waste heap based on multidimensional ordination of ecotopes. 2D graphic visualization of geochemical indicators, the axes of which are chemical element concentrations or integral gradients of the environment, provides a clear representation of the migration processes of elements in soils of various ecotopes. Practical implications. The practical significance of the results obtained lies in the possibility of using the identified patterns of chemical element distribution to assess the level of soil pollution in the impact zone of the waste rock dump. The data obtained can be used to predict local changes in soil cover quality and to substantiate measures to reduce the negative impact of heavy metals on the soil environment of adjacent territories.
Purpose. The purpose of this paper is to explore the influence of factors such as humidity and wind speed on the change in air flow temperature in a mine thermal environment. Methods. The mine heat and humidity exchange experiment is combined with numerical simulation. Using ANSYS Fluent, the influence of airflow humidity on the temperature field is simulated and analyzed at different temperatures and wind speeds. A similar experiment was conducted in an experimental mine and measured under different temperature and wind speed conditions. Change in heat exchange between the air inlet and the surrounding rock of the roadway with different humidity. Findings. Numerical simulation and experimental results show that as the relative humidity in the airflow increases, the rate of rise in airflow temperature increases gradually. The maximum is 0.038 degrees C/m. Higher wind speed shortens the time for heat exchange, reducing the rate of temperature increase. An empirical model was developed to describe the relationships among wind speed, temperature, humidity, and the rate of temperature rise. Originality. This paper incorporates humidity as a key factor and establishes an empirical model for airflow temperature change in humid mine conditions. Practical implications. The findings provide a scientific basis for predicting and controlling airflow temperature in high-temperature mines, improving thermal comfort and safety for underground workers and guiding mine ventilation system and thermal hazard
Purpose. To substantiate strategic approaches for the development of the precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC) industry in Indonesia based on an analysis of the PCC market, taking into account the needs of industrial consumers, market segmentation, product requirements, and the availability of local mineral resources. Methods. This study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining secondary data from trade statistics, literature reviews, and company reports with primary data from field surveys and interviews. It analyzes import-export trends of PCC using HS codes 28365010 and 28365090, and maps industrial users across Java. Strategic analysis was conducted using the SWOT and BCG matrices to assess the competitiveness and growth potential of domestic PCC production. Findings. Indonesia's PCC demand reaches 65393 tons per year, while domestic production is only 14600 tons (22%), resulting in an import dependency of around 75%. It creates an import substitution opportunity of 50793 tons per year. The SWOT analysis shows that the main strength is abundant limestone reserves, but production capacity, environmentally friendly technology, and international certification remain limited. Based on the BCG Matrix, the food and transparent plastic sectors are prioritized as "Stars"; paint and cigarette paper as "Cash Cows"; pharmaceuticals and cosmetics as "Question Marks"; and adhesives as "Dogs" with low priority. Originality. This study links geological potential with strategic industrial development, especially in the context of import substitution and mineral downstreaming policy. Practical implications. The government needs to simplify licensing and provide downstream incentives to close the 50793ton import gap. Producers must focus on the food and pharmaceutical segments and meet international certification standards. R&D support and environmentally friendly carbonation technology are important to reduce import dependency by 75%.
Purpose. To determine the effective parameters of a resource-saving technology for supporting and protecting a panel entry during its repeated use based on experimental studies and multifactor computer modeling. Methods. The study employed both experimental and numerical research methods. The experimental part included in-mine observations of rock pressure manifestations in repeatedly used extraction workings of the Western Donbas. The state of the workings was assessed by the displacement of the drift contour and parameters of frame support deformation in key cross-sections. Numerical modelling of the geomechanical state of the rock mass and support systems was performed using the ANSYS software package based on the finite element method (FEM), taking into account the texture of the coal-bearing stratum, physical and mechanical properties of lithotypes, moisture content, fracturing, rheological properties of rocks, and disruption of contacts between adjacent layers. Findings. Based on experimental studies and numerical modelling, the effectiveness of using rope crown runners in combination with a combined roof-bolting system has been proven. It has been established that the proposed support scheme reduces the intensity of rock pressure manifestations and ensures significant savings in material and labour resources during the repeated use of mine workings. The feasibility of its application for supporting prefabricated drifts under complex mining and geological conditions of the Western Donbas has been confirmed. Originality. The features of the formation of the stress-strain state of the rock mass surrounding an extraction working during its repeated use have been established, and the effectiveness of a combined roof-bolting system with rope crown runners for reducing rock pressure manifestations has been substantiated. New data on the redistribution of stresses in the roof and side rocks of the working have been obtained, explaining the mechanism of increasing its stability when using the proposed support system. Practical implications. The results of the study can be used in the design and selection of resource-saving support schemes for repeatedly used drifts under conditions of weak surrounding rocks and increased rock pressure manifestations.
Purpose. The work is aimed at determining the efficiency of the technology of equipping the water intake part of a hydrogeological well with an inverse gravel filter and the economic efficiency of performing work using the proposed technology. Methods. The tasks were solved using a comprehensive research method, which included analysis and generalization of geological and technical information, physical modeling, and experimental research and development. Findings. Production tests of the technology of equipping hydrogeological wells with inverse gravel filters has been carried out, which confirmed the effectiveness of the developed and tested technology. The technology of manufacturing inverse gravel filter elements has been tested in production conditions. There has been shown the possibility of using the developed technologies for manufacturing an inverse gravel filter element and transporting an inverse gravel filter along the borehole of hydrogeological wells during their construction with a depth of more than 200 m, using standard drilling technological equipment and tools. Originality. For the first time, there has been substantiated the use of a water-based mineral binder containing an organic polymer - technical gelatin - for the monolithization of loose gravel material in production conditions into a block structure of a gravel filter of a borehole. For the first time, there has been demonstrated the possibility of equipping the water-receiving part of hydrogeological wells, in fine-grained and fine-grained sands, with inverse gravel filters using the proposed technology. Practical implications. As a result of experimental and production tests, there has been confirmed effectiveness of the developed technology for manufacturing inverse gravel filter elements and transporting the inverse gravel filter along the wellbore. During the tests, the following aspects have been determined: costs for manufacturing prototypes of inverse gravel filter elements; costs for equipping the water intake part of a hydrogeological well with inverse gravel filters; well productivity; economic indicators of the technology for equipping hydrogeological wells with filters using the proposed technologies.
Purpose. The mining industry is one of the sectors that have benefited from expert systems over the years. This review aims to analyze developments in using expert systems in mining. Methods. The approach used involved searching, screening, and selecting relevant published studies following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) methodology. A total of 32 (n = 32) articles reporting on specific expert systems developed for the mining industry were considered for further analysis while 21 (n = 21) were excluded from the study. The analysis looked at the nature of the reported expert systems, their mining application areas, and the tools used to develop them. Findings. The results reveal that there is generally an increase in the development and use of expert systems in the mining sector. The abundant availability of expert system shells and the adoption of recent digital technologies such as cloud computing and the Internet of Things (IoT) present a potential for further development of expert systems in the mining industry. Originality. This is the first review of the trends in the development and use of expert systems in mining. Practical implications. This work’s findings give insights into the trends and opportunities for the development and application of expert systems in mining. The growing use of expert systems in making sound decisions in mining has the potential to make future mining operations safe, profitable, and sustainable.
Purpose. Vibrations during deep drilling may lead to detrimental energy dissipation, reduced rate of penetration, and accelerated tool wear. The objective of this study is to conduct field trials of a budget-friendly downhole vibration controller with a novel mounting assembly for installation in the bottom-hole assembly, and to assess the relationship between vibration loading levels and drilling performance indicators, as well as bit damage, quantitatively. Methods. The methodology is based on synchronized recordings of lateral and axial root-mean-square vibrations, as well as the stick-slip index, along with drilling parameters and gamma-ray logging. Comparisons were made between two adjacent wells in the same field, spanning identical geological intervals. These comparisons were supplemented by photographic documentation and analysis of the bit condition before and after each run. Findings. Empirical evidence was obtained demonstrating that elevated vibration levels consistently correlate with decreased mechanical rate of penetration and bit wear. In the well with elevated vibration loading, the mechanical rate of penetration was approximately 7.3 m/h. In the adjacent well, where the dynamic regime remained within acceptable limits, it reached 11.9 m/h-approximately 40% higher than the other well. Originality. The originality of this work lies in combining field tests of a low-cost downhole vibration controller with novel mounting assembly for its installation in the lower part of the drill string, together with a quantitative assessment of the relationship between vibration loading levels, drilling efficiency, and bit damage. An additional original result is the identification of indicative threshold vibration levels for timely decision-making aimed at preserving the drilling tool and optimizing the rate of penetration. Practical implications. The feasibility of applying a budget-friendly downhole controller and the proposed mounting sembly as accessible tools for adjusting drilling parameters and making informed bit selections to prevent abnormal dynamic loading is demonstrated.
Purpose. Determination of characteristic parameters of electromagnetic eddy current conversion for the recognition of mineralogical varieties of iron ore. Methods. The work uses methods of analysis of domestic and foreign experience, mathematical analysis, and computer modeling to determine the influence of specific physicochemical properties and textural and structural features of iron-bearing rocks on the characteristics of eddy current conversion of a probing electromagnetic signal. To determine the frequency of the probing signal at which the real and imaginary components of the impedance of the sensor's measuring coil are equal to each other, it is approximated using a Foster network. Findings. Variations in the electrical conductivity and magnetic permeability of iron ore, associated with its mineralogical composition and physical structure, lead to changes in the conditions of formation and flow of eddy currents, which is reflected in the phase, amplitude, and spectral composition of the signal in the receiving circuit of the eddy current sensor. The measured impedance values of the sensor's measuring coil characterize the unique properties of the rock sample under study and, together with the frequency value of the probing electromagnetic signal, are a characteristic feature of the mineralogical variety of rock. Originality. It has been established for the first time that the values of the real and imaginary components of the impedance of the measuring coil and the frequency at which they are equal to each other, determined by the results of eddy current conversion in a ferromagnetic medium of a probing electromagnetic signal of variable frequency, correspond to the unique physicochemical properties of the mineralogical varieties of the iron-bearing rock under study and are effective characteristic features for their recognition. Practical implications. The dependencies obtained as a result of modeling eddy current conversion are used in the implementation of the method of non-contact non-destructive measurement of iron ore characteristics and recognition of its mineralogical varieties. The results of testing and practical application of the proposed method demonstrate its high efficiency, which allows us to recommend the developed scientific and technical solutions for wide industrial application in mining enterprises.
Purpose. The study aims to investigate the geochemical distribution and inter-element correlations of cadmium (Cd), silver (Ag), and antimony (Sb) within the polymetallic Pb-Zn ore system of the Trepga mine (Kosovo). These elements, considered technologically critical due to their growing industrial relevance, were examined to define their paragenetic relationships with the principal sulfide minerals (galena and sphalerite), and to elucidate their spatial patterns within the mineralized zones. Methods. Representative samples were collected from each active ore body within Horizons VIII-XI of the Trepga deposit. Each sample underwent drying, multi-stage grinding, acid digestion, and chemical analysis by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The obtained analytical data were statistically processed to determine descriptive parameters and Pearson correlation coefficients, while geochemical contour maps were generated using Surfer software to visualize spatial distributions. Findings. Cadmium concentrations ranged from 34 to 1125 ppm (average approximate to 308 ppm), silver from 20 to 389 ppm (average approximate to 93 ppm), and antimony from 42 to 512 ppm (average approximate to 171 ppm). Strong positive correlations were observed between Ag and Pb (r = 0.94) and between Cd and Zn (r = 0.77), indicating two dominant geochemical associations: a Pb-Ag paragenetic group and a Zn-Cd-Sb assemblage. The vertical and spatial distributions confirm a continuous Pb-Zn-Ag-Cd-Sb zonation typical of hydrothermal replacement systems. Originality. This work provides the first integrated statistical and spatial characterization of Ag-Cd-Sb in relation to Pb-Zn mineralization in the Trepga mine. It demonstrates the vertical persistence of these geochemical patterns across multiple horizons and highlights the evolving hydrothermal conditions controlling their deposition. Practical implications. The identified Pb-Ag and Zn-Cd-Sb assemblages serve as reliable geochemical indicators for exploration and selective ore processing. The results confirm the potential recovery of Ag, Cd, and Sb as valuable by-products from Pb-Zn ores, contributing to more sustainable and resource-efficient utilization of the Trepga deposit.
Purpose. The study aims to determine the technological properties and fractional composition of oil from various wells in the Druzhelyubivske oil and gas condensate field (Ukraine). Special attention is paid to predicting the structural and group composition to justify the choice of the most appropriate processing technologies. Methods. Standard analytical methods were employed to evaluate the physicochemical properties of the crude oil samples, including density, viscosity, water content, mechanical impurities, asphaltenes, resins, paraffins, and sulfur. Fractional distillation enabled the separation of oil into its light and heavy components. Experimental and statistical modeling were used to predict the structural composition based on key technical parameters. The average approximation errors, the coefficient of determination, and the Fisher criterion were used to assess the accuracy of the models. Findings. It was found that the crude oil samples possess the properties of light oil, including low viscosity, low water and impurity content, and a favorable fractionation profile for further processing. The developed statistical models demonstrated high accuracy in predicting the content of the main chemical components. The results obtained indicate the potential for utilizing combined technologies, specifically catalytic cracking and hydrotreating, to enhance the yield of valuable petroleum products. Originality. The work presents a comprehensive assessment of oil from the Druzhelyubivske field, which allows filling the gap in modern data on its composition and processing capabilities. For the first time, an approach to determining structuralgroup indicators (the content of paraffins, resins, and asphaltenes) based on physicochemical characteristics is pro-posed. The use of experimental and statistical modeling to predict these parameters is a new direction in optimizing technological solutions in oil refining. Practical implications. The results obtained enable us to develop an effective refining strategy tailored to the characteristics of the Druzhelyubivske oil field. The correct choice of refining technologies will contribute to increasing product yield, reducing costs, and increasing economic efficiency. The proposed approach also simplifies the methodology for assessing oil composition and accelerates decision-making on the further development of individual wells.
Purpose. The stability of the lower coal seam roadway under the condition of close coal seams is a key issue in underground mining, mainly when the roadway is located under the coal pillar of the upper seam. This paper analyzes the stress distribution rule under the coal pillar to determine the reasonable location of the roadway in the lower seam at Thong Nhat Coal Mine, Vietnam. Methods. Numerical simulation model using FLAC3D software was conducted to investigate the distribution and redistribution of stress under the coal pillar and the goaf area, considering vertical-horizontal stress, physical parameters of rock and actual boundary conditions. Findings. Four different roadway layout locations were assumed for comparison: Under the center of the pillar (A), under the edge of the pillar (B, C) and in the floor area under the goaf (D). The results showed that the highest stress concentration was at location A, with a concentration coefficient of 2.4-2.7 times the initial stress, creating a high risk of instability. Locations B and C had lower stresses but were still strongly affected by the pillar load. In contrast, location D showed a significantly lower and uniform stress distribution, and a small plastic zone development range, which was favorable for maintaining roadway stability. Originality. The choice of roadway location is decisive for the safety and longevity of the project. In the geological conditions at Thong Nhat Coal Mine, arranging the roadway in the floor area under the goaf outside the coal pillar with a horizontal distance of 5m (location D) is the most reasonable and safest. At the same time, it is necessary to avoid arranging the roadway directly under the coal pillar. Practical implications. The research results provide a scientific and practical basis for design work, improving stability, reducing maintenance costs and ensuring safety in underground mines with close coal seams.
