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By J R. Kyle

The Deep Mill Level Zone (DMLZ) skarn Cu-Au deposit is the deepest explored part of the Ertsberg East Skarn System extending from the surface at 4200 m elevation to the DMLZ at 2900 to 2600 m. The DMLZ is hosted in an upper Cretaceous to lower Tertiary siliciclastic and carbonate succession adjacent to the 3 Ma Ertsberg pluton. Much of the DMLZ ore is hosted by mixed assemblages of siliciclastic and dolomitised carbonate strata that have been altered to Mg-rich skarn assemblages. Unaltered equivalent strata from a 300 m cored interval in the Yellow Valley Syncline were characterised petrographically and representative samples were analysed for major element compositions. These stratigraphic and chemical units are interpreted to be responsible for the varying skarn lithologies within the DMLZ. The dominant prograde skarn assemblages are controlled by protolith composition, notably the relative abundance of quartz, dolomite, and calcite within the protolith. Models based on isochemical metamorphism of mixed assemblages of quartz and dolomite suggest that the formation of the forsterite-diopside dominant skarn assemblages resulted in the greatest amount of pore space increase. DMLZ Cu-Au concentrations were locally controlled by host lithology, with structural features providing fluid pathways that focused the mineralising fluids. An EXTENDED ABSTRACT is available for download. A full-length paper was not prepared for this presentation.

Jan 1, 2008

By L. Gunnewiek

An advanced real-time monitoring system called the tapblock diagnostic system (TDS) has been developed. The purpose of the TDS is to help furnace operators manage the safe operation and economical maintenance of furnace tapblocks. This system is an evolution of the current practice of using historical records and operator interpretation to assess the ?health? of a tapblock. The main parameters affecting tapblock health are heat removal capacity and refractory wear, and these are currently difficult to assess in situ except in a global way. By using monitored and operating data together with predictive numerical modelling and multivariate statistical methods, real-time tapblock performance is assessed relative to expected performance. A state indicator in the form of a green, yellow, and red light is used by furnace operators to monitor the tapblock performance and health status during operation. Access to historical operating data and the provision of diagnostic functions allow for probable health degradation events to be deeply investigated. A recent opportunity to evaluate the actual performance of a first generation TDS installed in the KIVCET furnace at Teck Cominco?s Trail Operations showed that a reasonable estimate of tapblock health was made. However, the evaluation also found that some areas of refractory wear were missed, and a new mechanism affecting refractory wear was discovered that was not previously known. This has reinforced the belief that there is a need to develop improved methods of monitoring so that data used to define the health of the tapblock is more comprehensive and accurate.

Jan 1, 2008

By Anthony W. Wakefield

The paper is intended merely as an introduction to methane hydrates, what they are and why they are important. It does not claim to be a cutting-edge research report, but may be useful for those to whom the subject is unfamiliar.

Jan 1, 2008

By Wander. L. Vasconcelos, Virgínia. S. T. Ciminelli, Angela. M. F. Guimarães

"The present work was aimed at synthesizing nanostructured hybrid materials derived from the functionalization of smectite clays with ligands containing thiol (-SH) groups for application in cadmium adsorption processes. An in nature Brazilian bentonite was investigated. The modification route was based on the grafting reaction between hydroxyl groups present on clay surface and the hydrolyzable alkoxy group of the (3-mercaptopropyl)trimethoxysilane in dry toluene under reflux. The present work showed that the proposed modification route was effective for the grafting of the thiol groups in the clay structure. The thiol-functionalized bentonite samples showed average binding capacities 160% higher with respect to Cd2+ to those obtained with the ungrafted material. These results support a mechanism of adsorption involving primarily ion complexation by the thiol groups (specific) instead of cation exchange (unspecific). The proposed modification processes are suggested for the preparation of novel adsorbent materials with controlled selectivity and specificity and therefore with good potential for separation and pre-concentration purposes.IntroductionMany efforts have recently been devoted to the design and preparation of inorganic-organic nanomaterials because of their potential application in novel functional materials. The intercalation of organic species within the spaces between interlayers of inorganic layered crystals provides nanostructures consisting of alternating layers of inorganic and organic compound. The intercalation reactions occur by insertion of mobile guest species (neutral, molecules, or ions) into the accessible crystallographic-defined vacant sites located between the layers (interlayer spacing) of the layered host structure [1}.Silane coupling agents, used widely for the modification of silica surfaces, have also been employed more recently for modification of layered silicates [2,3,4,5]. Modification with organosilane involves grafting reactions by establishing covalent bonds between the reactive groups of the layer, normally hydroxyl groups, and silane molecules. These reactions can be restricted to the external surface (the basal spacing remains unchanged) or to the interlayer surface, in which case an interlayer expansion occurs. The resulting material can be defined as a hybrid material or, more specifically, functionalized inorganic layered material [1]."

Jan 1, 2008

By W. R. Reed

A computer model named the "Dynamic Component Program" (DCP) was specifically designed for predicting the dispersion off dust from haul trucks at surface mines. Validation of the DCP was completed by comparing its results with the results of the 1SC3 model and with actual dust measurements taken front two operating mine sires. Comparisons of the field measurements, predictions of the ISC3 model and the predictions of the DCP demonstrate that the results from the DCP represent, on average, an 85% improvement truer the ISC3 dust dispersion model results.

Jan 1, 2008

By Philomene Verlaan

The Code for Environmental Management of Marine Mining (the Code) was adopted in 2001 by the International Marine Minerals Society (IMMS) following extensive and wide-ranging consultation, and updated in 2002. The Code provides a framework and benchmarks for development and implementation of an environmental program for a marine exploration or extraction site by marine mining companies, and for stakeholders in governments, NGOs and communities in evaluating actual and proposed applications of environmental programs at marine mining sites. The Code provides for its review by IMMS after five years, with a focus toward possible modifications based on experience with its implementation and in light of developments in the field of marine mining and associated environmental practices, in consultation with the marine mining industry and with other stakeholders at marine mining operations. As the review of the Code is now due, to begin the process, this paper will present an analysis of the Code and initial suggestions for its modification. Keywords: marine mining, marine environment, sustainable development, marine environmental risk management

Jan 1, 2008

By Yi Luo

A longwall mining operation went under a tall, self-supporting and free-standing wireless communication transmission tower. In anticipation of that the ground subsidence process might affect the transmission tower, the mining company took a proactive approach to mitigate the expected subsidence influences. The efforts include prediction of surface subsidence process at the location of the tower, assessment of stability, structural integrity and functionality of the tower structures, and design and implementation of mitigation measures. The intension of this paper is to demonstrate the techniques that can be used to assess and mitigate the subsidence effects on tall self-supporting and free standing tower structures.

Jan 1, 2008

By A Fareth

Constructed between 1885 and 1891, the New Croton Aqueduct (NCA) in New York State is a 50 km long (31 mi) brick-lined tunnel conveying water from the Croton watershed north of New York City to distribution systems in the Bronx and Manhattan. Except at two siphons, the aqueduct operates as an open channel conduit from the New Croton Reservoir downstream 39 km (25 mi) to the Jerome Park Reservoir in the Bronx. The remaining 11 km (6 mi) is operated as a pressurised conduit and includes a major siphon, of circular cross-section, under the Harlem River. The aqueduct has a flow capacity of approximately 1100 million litres of water per day (13 m3/s or 290 million gallons per day) and supplies on average ten per cent of New York CityÆs drinking water. The CityÆs water supply system is operated and maintained by the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (NYCDEP). This paper covers the work done during the three main stages of the program to rehabilitate the entire NCA: inspections, design and rehabilitation. It also includes some of the more interesting structural findings of the original construction as well as documents and drawings from the NYCDEP archives. The rehabilitation program has been underway in phases since 1993, with inspections scheduled to minimise outages, allowing this strategic aqueduct to remain in service during critical seasonal periods. The open channel flow section of the aqueduct in the north is horseshoe shaped, with inside dimensions of 4.1 m (13.6 ft) in width and 4 m (13.5 ft) in height. The pressurised section is 3.7 m (12.3 ft) in diameter, and includes a 90 m (330 ft) deep siphon under the Harlem River. A total of 163 million bricks were used in the construction, enough to build a 48 km (30 mi) wall around Manhattan Island, 3 m (10 ft) thick and 15 m (50 ft) high.Between 1993 and 1997 a series of in-tunnel investigations were performed in the open channel portion of the NCA, consisting of field inspection, non-destructive geophysical testing, and coring of the brick liner. Between November 2004 and September 2005, a major inspection program was conducted to assess the condition of the 11 km (6 mi) long pressurised section and all shafts, headhouses and blow-off structures along the entire 50 km (31 mi) alignment. Inspection methods included using an underwater remote operated vehicle (ROV) equipped with sonar and cameras to inspect the deep siphon, fibre optics examinations of probe holes drilled through and beyond the brick lining, and core holes and geophysical inspections to assess properties of the liner and behind-the-liner materials. A water pressure and test grouting program was conducted to assess methods and expected grout takes for the rehabilitation work in the pressurised sections. The rehabilitation program is anticipated to be completed in 2010.

Jan 1, 2008

In 2005, data obtained from the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) indicated a total of 922 underground (6.3%) and 13,744 surface (93.7%) mining operations.1

Jan 1, 2008

By H S. Smit, P Lotz

Gold mining companies who are signatories of the International Cyanide Management Code (visit www.cyanidecode.org for further information) are required to measure WAD cyanide on-line and destroy WAD cyanide in excess of specified limits. Weak acid dissociable (WAD) cyanide refers to those cyanide species liberated at a moderate pH of 4.5 such as HCN(aq) and CN-, and the majority of Zn, Cd, Cu, Ni and Ag complexes with low dissociation constants. It is potentially toxic to humans and animals. Recognising and in response to the gold mining industryÆs need for an on-line WAD cyanide measurement device, Mintek recently developed the WAD Cynoprobe. The WAD cyanide analysis technique is based on the use of a ligand exchange reagent that liberates WAD cyanide from metal-cyano complexes. The ligand exchange reaction is represented by the following chemical equation: Metal(CN)X + yLigand <-> Metal(Ligand)y + xCN- The plant filtrate is treated with a ligand exchange reagent, to liberate WAD cyanide, before measuring the free cyanide concentration via amperometry. The instrument proved to be accurate and reliable in the laboratory as well as under industrial gold plant conditions during various trials. It has gained wide-spread commercial acceptance both locally and internationally. However, itÆs recent exposure to complex ore types have called for refinements to the analysis technique. It has been further developed to improve its precision and accuracy and to remove reagent and thiosulfate interferences. Its compatibility with the most commonly used destruction oxidants has also recently been investigated. The WAD Cynoprobe may be configured to measure both free and WAD cyanide concentration. Its fast analysis time, approximately 5 min, makes it suitable for use in the control and optimisation of the cyanide destruction and recovery process. Proper oxidant dosage control and monitoring of effluent concentration levels will ultimately result in less cyanide and post-destruction salts discharged into the environment.

Jan 1, 2008

By E. Barnard

Tarkwa Gold Mine is located in south western Ghana, and is majority owned and operated by Gold Fields Ghana Limited. The Tarkwa CIL plant utilises a single low aspect 27' x 42' 14MW dual pinion drive SAG mill designed to mill 4.2mtpa (525tph). The plant was designed and constructed in a manner that would facilitate its expansion to 8.4mtpa (1,050tph). Since the plant was commissioned in September 2004, the SAG mill has consistently exceeded its nameplate throughput by up to 25%. Through the installation of a 26? x 36? 14MW dual pinion drive Ball mill along with additional upstream and downstream equipment, the plant will now be expanded to 12mtpa (1,500tph). This paper endeavours to outline the process and engineering design challenges along with the future construction challenges of the expansion in the midst of a fully operational plant.

Jan 1, 2008

By J. E. Dutrizac

The dissolution of low-iron sphalerite, (Zn,Fe)S containing 0.08% Fe, in ferric sulphate-sulphuric acid media was investigated using closely sized fractions of crushed sphalerite crystals and sintered disks made from the crushed crystals. Linear kinetics are observed, and the predominant reaction products are ZnSO4, FeSO4 and elemental sulphur. The leaching rate increases systematically with increasing temperature, and the calculated apparent activation energy is 56 kJ/mol for the sized sphalerite and 54 kJ/mol for the sintered disks. The relatively high apparent activation energy suggests that the rate is chemically controlled, a conclusion supported by the insensitivity of the rate to the disk rotation speed. The rate increases as the 0.22 power of the Fe(SO4)1.5 concentration, and as the 0.22 power of the H2SO4 concentration. However, in the absence of ferric ions, the rate increases more significantly with increasing H2SO4 concentrations, and relatively rapid rates are observed in solutions containing >0.5 M H2SO4. In 0.1 M Fe(SO4)1.5-0.3 M H2SO4 media, the measured rate decreases with increasing sulphate concentrations, added as Li2SO4. The rate of dissolution of low-iron sphalerite is promoted by dissolved copper concentrations as high as 800 mg/L. In contrast, dissolved silver, even in the 0-2 mg/L concentration range, significantly retards the dissolution of the low-iron sphalerite.

Jan 1, 2008

By Bill Gray

Jan 1, 2008

By Tom Hale

Developers and blasters are faced with increasing public demand and regulatory restrictions to maintain the lowest possible levels of noise and vibration from blasting operations in populated urban areas. Pyrotechnic products have proven to be a low noise, low vibration alternative to conventional blasting for close-in rock excavation and concrete demolition applications. Pyrotechnic breaking charges often yield 1/10th the vibration and noise compared to traditional explosives, and have been demonstrated to increase public confidence and decreased damage potential where they have replaced explosives, thus allowing new opportunities for work and greater job profitability. This paper presents a practical approach to utilizing pyrotechnic products in various applications including trenching, mass excavation, demolition, and dimension stone production, providing methodology for pattern design, vibration probability and loading calculations. Field research data is reviewed and compared to conventional explosives.

Jan 1, 2008

By Raja V. Ramani

Discussion in this section of the Handbook is limited to the working environment of miners, the mine workers themselves, and the machines used in mining (Fig. 11.0.1). The contents emphasize personnel health and safety aspects and engineering design and control practices to ensure a productive health and safety environment. Reference is to the health and safety of the individual miners as well as to the safety of the working environment. This Handbook also contains references to health and safety regulations in Chapter 3.2 and environmental protection in Chapters 3.4 and 7.3.

Jan 1, 2008

By D Baas, Y Atasoy

With increased pressure for companies to cut costs during design of new mineral processing plants, overall plant design has changed over the last decade with less design for feed blending and less installed surge capacity. This has changed the operability of new mineral processing plants, where disturbances due to variable ore types have resulted in the evolution of new control techniques. These techniques are necessary to maintain stability and optimise the performance of these new plants. This paper describes the benefit of applying these new control techniques in a new mineral processing plant in Australia utilising RockwellÆs ControlLogix system architecture.

Jan 1, 2008

By C. Niedersberg, M. K. Almeida, R. M. C. Santana, V. G. Dalenogore

"The major source of environmental pollution in urban areas is the transport sector and its impact on human health and the greenhouse is preoccupying. In many works of literature is monitored the pollutants in urban cities, however in specific areas such as universities, they are scarce. Therefore, the aim of this work is to monitorate the gaseous pollutans in a bus terminal at Santa Cruz do Sul University-UNISC and to develop a control framework of the air quality. Six points were selected for monitoring, being one of them inside a bus. The monitoring of CO, HC and CO2 were carried out on arrival and departure of the bus. Preliminary results conducted in a day of spring showed that the most critical condition was during the night shift, where the concentration of CO (200 ppm) was the highest, caused by the vehicles increase, due to the larger number of students.IntroductionAccording to Mascarenhas et al, 2005, air pollutants are responsible for various effects on vegetation, ecosystems and is recognized as one of major public health problems of today, with harmful effect on humans even at levels considered safe by Brazilian legislation.There are numerous scientific papers linking air pollution with respiratory problems, cardiovascular which hinder the daily life because many of these diseases are chronic and may even lead to death, as was noted by Brook et al, 2004.There is a significant increase in the last decades of emissions to air resulting mainly from human activities. Already being observed the relationship of these emissions with the change in global climate, IPCC, 1995.They are a multitude of pollutants from the atmosphere, and its sources and its effects. The effect of Greenhouse gases (GHG), representing less than 1% of the gases in the atmosphere, controlling the flow of energy in the atmosphere. The increase in emissions of greenhouse gases is affecting the Earth's average temperature, which depends on the balance between these flows, in particular the flow of solar radiation reaching the surface and the flow of infrared radiation sent into space.One of the main greenhouse gases to this imbalance is the gas methane (CH4). Methane is produced by anaerobic decomposition of organic substances, through the action of bacteria metanogenic conditions that require highly reduced to its growth. This gas is released into the atmosphere mainly by transport diffusive by aerenchyma (vascular tissue) plant and also by diffusion through the water slide. (Bont et al., 1978)."

Jan 1, 2008

By Hans Smit

The face of mining as we know it is set to change in the very near future as mining companies all over the globe realize the implications of accessing the vast mineral wealth contained on, and under, our ocean floors. With some land based mineral deposits being fully exploited across the world, deep sea mining is set to revolutionize global approaches to the search for precious metals and other sought after minerals. [ ] Previously, the financial implications of deep sea mining outweighed the benefits of access to the mineral rich deposits identified all around the world. The process of marine diamond mining off the west coast of southern Africa started in the late 1950?s by a Texan, Sammy Collins, and subsequently continued by De Beers to the present day, has proven to be an excellent proving ground for the development of technology and mining systems that ensure a sustainable and financially viable business. [ ]

Jan 1, 2008

By Roald Ysteboe, Finn Olesen

"Elkem has developed a process that utilizes SPL as a raw material for pig iron production. This process will be demonstrated in industrial scale during 2008 and 2009. The process developed produce iron, and the reduction material used, is the carbon present in the SPL. The iron source could be either virgin iron ore or waste/recycled material from the steel industry. The SPLrefractory and bath material is dissolved in the slag produced. The slag is designed so that any leaching of environmentally dangerous elements is minimized. This process can in addition to SPL, consume other types of waste derived from the primary production of aluminium. Elkem intends to supply this demo project with SPL and other waste products from external sources, domestic as well as international ones.IntroductionSpent Pot Lining (SPL) is generated when an electrolytic cell for producing aluminium is taken out of service and the refractory and carbon lining is removed from the steel potshell.The yearly generation of SPL world wide is exceeding 500 000 tonnes. The major amount of this quantity is stockpiled or land filled, unprocessed.SPL contain large amount of water soluble fluorides and some amount of cyanides and is classified as hazardous waste in most countries."

Jan 1, 2008

By T Christopher

The Campamento Au/Ag deposit, discovered by Linear Gold in 2004, is located in Chiapas State, southern Mexico. The deposit is hosted by a sequence of Pleistocene-Pliocene andesitic volcanic rocks that have been intruded by a feldspar-phyric porphyry complex. Measured and indicated resources are 852 000 oz Au and 3.46 million ounces Ag with inferred resources of 374 000 ounces Au and 920 000 oz Ag. Resources were estimated at a 1.0 g/t Au equivalent cut-off. This is an ABSTRACT only. A full-length paper was not prepared for this presentation.

Jan 1, 2008