Innovation in Action

Tag: Environment

In-situ mining might revolutionize the way we mine, and its impact on the environment. Let’s learn more about it.
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Mincka

In-situ Mining Will Shake The Mining Industry. Here Is Why We Believe In It

In-situ mining is making a few shy beginnings in the mining industry. Also called in-situ leaching or solution mining, it is an innovative technique that leads to the extraction of valuable minerals from ore deposits without physically removing the ore from the ground.  But how is it possible and why do we believe this innovation is here to stay? Our engineers tell you everything.    With in-situ mining, less surface disturbances  Traditional mining practices have left indelible marks on landscapes, causing irreversible damage to the environment. In contrast, the emergence of in-situ mining offers a more ecologically sensitive approach to resource extraction. This technique operates beneath the Earth’s surface, eliminating the need for extensive excavation and preserving the natural terrain. Goodbye, open pits? Not yet. In-situ mining employs specialized methods such as solution mining and hydraulic fracturing. These techniques dissolve minerals in place, avoiding the need for disruptive digging and excavation. Unlike traditional mining, where large areas are laid bare, in-situ mining treads lightly, leaving landscapes visually unmarred. This presents a stark contrast to the scars left by open-pit mining, which reshape terrains and endure as lasting reminders of resource extraction’s toll on nature.   Furthermore, in-situ mining significantly reduces the financial burden of reclamation and rehabilitation projects. Traditional mining necessitates extensive restoration efforts to undo the damage caused by pit excavation and infrastructure development. These endeavours are not only costly but also time-consuming, delaying the land’s potential recovery. In-situ mining, on the other hand, avoids such disturbances, lessening the need for massive reclamation campaigns.  In the broader scope of a mine’s life cycle, pit reshaping stands out as a conspicuous aspect of traditional mining. The alteration of landscapes to access buried minerals transforms terrains into scars that persist long after operations cease. These scars alter the visual appeal of regions, affecting tourism, recreation, and local ecosystems. In-situ mining obviates these scars, promoting a future where resource extraction aligns with landscape preservation. As industries increasingly adopt in-situ methods, they pave the way for a more sustainable coexistence between mining and nature.   A Mining Solution Tailored to Specific Contexts While in-situ mining holds promise as an environmentally conscious extraction method, it’s important to recognize that its applicability is not universal across all minerals and metals. The effectiveness of this technique hinges on several key factors, making it particularly well-suited for specific minerals that play pivotal roles in various industries. In-situ mining finds its prime application in the extraction of minerals like gold, copper, and uranium. These elements hold immense significance in the context of renewable energy and technological advancement. Gold and copper are crucial components of electronic devices and renewable energy infrastructure, while uranium fuels nuclear power plants, contributing to low-carbon energy production. The viability of in-situ mining is intricately tied to the permeability of the ore deposit and the presence of aquifers. A steady flow of water is essential for effectively extracting minerals using in-situ methods. The permeability of the deposit allows for the movement of solutions that dissolve or release the target minerals, facilitated by the presence of water. Aquifers further contribute to the process, ensuring a continuous supply of water that aids in mineral extraction. However, it’s important to acknowledge that in-situ mining is not always feasible. In cases where the necessary conditions for in-situ extraction are absent, alternative mining methods come into play. Underground mining involves accessing minerals beneath the Earth’s surface through tunnels and shafts. Surface mining, on the other hand, involves removing layers of earth to access mineral deposits, often resulting in larger-scale landscape disruption. Placer mining targets minerals deposited in riverbeds and sediment, utilizing techniques such as panning and sluicing. In essence, while in-situ mining presents a compelling solution for specific minerals, its effectiveness is tied to geological and hydrological factors.    Navigating Challenges in In-Situ Mining In-situ mining is not perfect. It’s imperative to address certain challenges that arise within this innovative approach. Understanding and mitigating these issues are essential for ensuring the long-term viability of this method. One key challenge lies in the training and education of the new generation of engineers entering the mining industry. In-situ mining demands a unique skill set that goes beyond traditional excavation methods. Engineers must grasp the complexities of subsurface processes, hydrogeology, and the interactions between leaching solutions and mineral deposits. Establishing comprehensive training programs that equip engineers with the expertise needed for in-situ mining will be crucial to maintaining its success. Another concern centers around the unpredictable impact of leaching liquids on the rock within the deposit. Leaching involves introducing chemical solutions to dissolve target minerals. However, the reactions between these solutions and the mineral-bearing rock can yield unforeseen results, potentially leading to unintended environmental consequences. Extensive research and careful monitoring are essential to anticipate and mitigate any adverse effects on the surrounding ecosystem. The challenge of restoring natural groundwater conditions after leaching operations is completed presents another hurdle. The intricate interplay between leaching solutions, mineral extraction, and hydrogeology can alter the natural flow of groundwater. Restoring this equilibrium post-mining requires innovative solutions that go beyond conventional reclamation practices, ensuring the long-term health of local water systems. Addressing the treatment of mining sludge is also crucial. While significant progress has been made, with approaches like phytoremediation showing promise, effective and sustainable methods for managing the sludge generated from in-situ mining must be continually refined. The development of advanced techniques to treat, contain, or repurpose mining waste will contribute to minimizing the environmental impact of this extraction method.   In-Situ Mining; the perspective of an engineering consultancy  For an engineering consultancy, embracing in-situ mining represents a strategic decision driven by several compelling reasons. Here are key motivations that underscore the industry’s belief in this innovative extraction method: Environmental Stewardship and Reputation: In an era where sustainability is paramount, engineering consultancies recognize the importance of aligning their practices with eco-conscious values. By advocating for and implementing in-situ mining, consultancies showcase their commitment to responsible resource extraction. This proactive stance not only enhances their reputation as

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Nitrates in Mining
Blog
Mincka

Nitrates in Mining

Nitrates in mining effluent can be a big problem for any site. Even well-maintained waste dumps have the potential to exposure the environment to prolonger periods of nitrate exposure, and this becomes dangerous for sites that operate in sensitive aquatic areas. Fortunately, there are some great strategies for nitrate mitigation available, and as trusted mining engineers, Mincka are here to share them with you! Engineers talk Nitrates The biggest source of nitrate waste in mining effluent is from ammonium nitrate explosives. The use of these tools are non-negotiable in many mining situations, they’re needed to accomplish some very important tasks and they’re incredibly effective! The downside is that residual material can easily leach into groundwater. The longer these nitrates sit around in waste dumps and on surfaces, the more likely they are to cause problems.  In addition to concerns for the environment, there are also concerns for the businesses in question; downstream clean-up costs and reduced productivity while crews work to contain nitrate leaching risk pushing projects over budget and beyond deadlines. Given the use of ammonium nitrate bulk explosives carries with it the risk of nitrate leaching into groundwater, our teams have embarked on a project to better understand the causes and risks and we are proud to have developed a viable solution to enable mines to conduct blast operations without having to compromise on explosive energy which has subsequent downstream cost and productivity. There are several advanced explosive products on the market that offer unique emulsification technology to provide ideal stability and limit leaching within blast holes, ensuring that post-blast fumes limit environmental exposure and provide better protection for groundwater. The formulations are the cutting edge of nitrate mitigation efforts, and are designed for even the most intensive wet blast hole applications. What can be done?  The science behind these innovations is a combination of advanced surface chemistry and increased viscosity. When combined with other nitrate-conscious hole loading configurations, the result is an enormous reductions in nitrate leaching! Mincka are the trusted experts in mining engineering and risk management, and we regularly employ these kinds of innovative solutions to complex problems. We like to solve problems before they arise, and with the growing awareness around environmental responsibility in our industry we provide a wide range of consulting services to our clients. 

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