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By Steve Potter

"REVIEW OF ISA's DRAFT EXPLOITATION REGULATIONS – HAVE KEY STAKEHOLDERS' CONCERNS BEEN ADDRESSED ADEQUATELY?In early August 2017, the ISA published a revised draft of the exploitation regulations. My presentation will focus on the extent to which key State and Contractor issues raised in formal submissions in November 2016 have been addressed in the revised draft and any additional key issues in the revised draft which are likely to cause significant concern for Contractors.ABSTRACTFollowing the ISA's call for submissions in response to draft zero of the exploitation regulations in July 2016, 43 responses from stakeholders were received by the ISA in November 2016. My presentation will start by briefly looking at how the ISA has continued to engage with stakeholders following the publication of draft zero of the exploitation regulations, including at payment regime workshops in London (November 2016) and Singapore (April 2017) and at the environmental workshop held in Berlin in March 2017. It will also touch on the publication in February 2017 of what was in effect a very preliminary draft of the environmental regulations before moving on to consider in detail the extent to which key State and Contractor issues have been addressed in the ISA revised draft exploitation regulations which were published in August 2017. My review of the formal submissions will include, amongst other things, commentary on:(i) the level of Stakeholder response (State Parties to UNCLOS, Sponsoring States, Privately owned Contractors, State Owned Contractors and NGOs);(ii) the quality of the submissions (particularly by States and Contractors); (iii) the key concerns raised by State and Contractor stakeholders and how those issues have been addressed in the revised draft exploitation regulations; and(iv) how all stakeholders need to further engage with the ISA to ensure that the exploitation code adequately addresses the legitimate and reasonable concerns of each Stakeholder group (e.g. Contractors, Sponsoring States, Developing States and NGOs)."

Jan 1, 2017

By C. A. Pickles, K. Mackowiak

Black Thor chromite ore from the Ring of Fire deposit in Northern Ontario was carbothermically reduced in a microwave system to produce a ferrochromium alloy. The as-received ore contained 43.0% Cr2O3, 19.9% Fe2O3, 14.5% MgO, 13.4% Al2O3, and 7.0% SiO2. Activated charcoal was utilized as the reducing agent. Firstly, TGA/DTA and permittivity studies were carried out in order to determine the relationship between the reduction process and the microwave susceptibility. Secondly, microwave reduction experiments were performed on the chromite ore. The variables investigated were; the amount of carbon, processing time, input power and type of atmosphere. A maximum chromium grade of 76.1% and a chromium metallization of 82.7% were obtained for a processing time of 20 minutes, a power input of 800 W, and a carbon addition of 15% in an argon atmosphere.

Jan 1, 2017

By M. Ge, C. Mborah

"The acoustic emission/microseismic monitoring (AE/MS) technique has widely been used in the mining environment for the monitoring of rock mass stability. A successful implementation of the method is hinged on being able to accurately determine the P- or S-wave arrival which is then used in the determination of the source of an event. Determination of the arrival phase is usually performed visually by a human expert. However, the mining environment is characterized by high noise levels and different noise types of varying intensities. Therefore, performing manual phase picking on time series data acquired from the AE/MS monitoring system can sometimes be tedious and time consuming if not impossible. In this paper, a proposal for improving manual P-wave phase arrival picks is discussed. The method involves the filtering of the AE/MS data using a stationary discrete wavelet transform (SDWT) method. After filtering, appropriate scales/levels of the multi-level decomposition process are then selected for further processing. The first step in the picking process after filtering, requires the computation of the signal power and the root mean square (RMS) using the signal amplitudes at each scale. The preliminary P-phase arrival time is picked using the results of the calculated power and RMS values respectively. The calculated RMS values are then superimposed on the calculated power values to determine the final arrival picks. If the arrival time picks obtained by both methods coincide or are within 5 to 10 sample points, the pick is considered reliable. The accuracy of the method was verified using AE/MS data from two datasets obtained from two separate underground mines. The results of the study showed that the picking method is reliable and robust. Based on the data studied, it can be concluded that the method will help reduce the time usually spent in processing AE/MS data from mines. INTRODUCTION A successful identification and location of the source of acoustic emission/microseismic (AE/MS) events is mainly dependent on the onset time of the P-wave phase. In many seismic networks, initial picks are performed by picking algorithms followed by manual picks by human experts. If the waveform signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) is low, the P-wave onset time picks by the human expert is generally reliable and accurate [1]. However, for waveforms with high SNR, picking of the P-wave onset could be a major challenge. Also, due to the volume of data acquired daily, manual processing could be stressful and time consuming [2]. These challenges continue to provide motivation for alternative means of providing reliable and efficient ways of improving manual phase picking. The AE/MS technique has been an intergral part of safety monitoring in mines [3] due to its capacity to identify zones of instability in a monitoring area. To obtain an accurate source of an AE/MS event however depends on the quality of the data used for P-wave phase picking [4, 5]. AE/MS data from mines are generally contaminated with excessive background noise generated by the different mining operations. The AE/MS signals of interest are mostly buried in background noise which makes it difficult to pick the P-wave phase arrivals [4]. Processing AE/MS data acquired in noisy environment remains a major challenge due to the weak nature of AE/MS signals [6]. As noted by [4] most of the data recorded in the mine environment are mainly due to events not related to AE/MS events of interest. The complexity of data in this type of environment makes the detection and picking of P-wave arrival by human experts a very difficult task."

Jan 1, 2017

By Z. Jin, D. DePaoli, P. Zhang

"Phosphate beneficiation in Florida generates more than one tonne of phosphatic clay, or slime, per tonne of phosphate rock produced. Since the start of the practice of large-scale washing and desliming for phosphate beneficiation, more than 2 Gt of slime has accumulated, containing approximately 600 Mt of phosphate rock, 600 kt of rare earth elements (REEs) and 80 million kilograms of uranium. The recovery of these valuable elements from the phosphatic clay is one of the most challenging endeavors in mineral processing, because the clay is extremely dilute, with an average solids concentration of 3 percent, and fine in size, with more than 50 percent having particle size smaller than 2 µm, and it contains nearly 50 percent clay minerals as well as large amounts of magnesium, iron and aluminum. With industry support and under funding from the Critical Materials Institute, the Florida Industrial and Phosphate Research Institute in conjunction with the Oak Ridge National Laboratory undertook the task to recover phosphorus, rare earths and uranium from Florida phosphatic clay. This paper presents the results from the preliminary testing of two approaches. The first approach involves three-stage cycloning using cyclones with diameters of 12.4 cm (5 in.), 5.08 cm (2 in.) and 2.54 cm (1 in.), respectively, to remove clay minerals followed by flotation and leaching. The second approach is a two-step leaching process. In the first step, selective leaching was conducted to remove magnesium, thus allowing the production of phosphoric acid suitable for the manufacture of diammonium phosphate (DAP) in the second leaching step. The results showed that multistage cycloning with small cyclones is necessary to remove clay minerals. Selective leaching at about pH 3.2 using sulfuric acid was found to be effective for removing more than 80 percent of magnesium from the feed with minimal loss of phosphorus.IntroductionFlorida phosphate ore, or “matrix,” as it is called locally, contains three different mineral groups that have to be separated from each other: (1) phosphate minerals, (2) clay minerals and (3) quartz, or sand. As mined, the phosphate and sand particles are embedded in compacted mud, or clay-balls. Before separation can begin, all of the particles must be liberated from the matrix of mud. The very first unit operation in the beneficiation process is to disaggregate the various particles. This actually starts while the matrix is flowing through the multimile pipeline from the mine to the beneficiation plant. While in the pipeline, the matrix is exposed to shear forces as it passes through the various centrifugal pumps along the pipeline. These intense shear forces cause a significant percentage of the sand and phosphate particles to be liberated from the clay-balls by the time they arrive at the plant. Once they reach the plant, the first goal is to finish disaggregating the clay, and follow that by making a size separation at 1 mm. This processing is conducted in the washer, consisting of a large rotating trammel screen and a few stages of log washer, screens and hydrocyclones. In all of the currently operating beneficiation plants, the washer is a large structure that receives the matrix, screens it and then discharges a pebble phosphate product sized larger than 1.0 mm and a slurry of liberated clay, sand and phosphate particles that are smaller than 1.0 mm."

Jan 1, 2017

By Natalia Konstantinova, Kira Mizell, James R. Hein, Georgy Cherkashov

"Ferromanganese crusts and nodules from the Amerasian basin of the Arctic Ocean are characterized by a unique composition compared to crusts formed elsewhere in the global ocean (Konstantinova et al., 2017; Hein et al., 2017). One of the most significant differences from global ocean crusts is the high detrital mineral content; mass balance calculations show that it may be as high as 35% in some samples (Hein et al., 2017).These Arctic Ocean Fe-Mn crusts also typically have three distinct megascopic layers, except for thin crusts; less commonly, four layers are noted for thick crusts. The age of initiation of Fe-Mn crust growth in the Amerasia Basin varies from 14.8 Myr to 0.7 Myr ago based on the Manheim and Lane-Bostwick (1988) Co chronometer, Be isotopes, and Th excess methods (Dausmann et al., 2015; Konstantinova et al., 2017; Hein et al., 2017).Samples and MethodsFourteen Fe-Mn crust samples recovered on Russian and U.S. research cruises were chosen for analyses based on their morphology, composition, water depth, genetic type, and location in Amerasia Basin. Seven samples from four distant dredge sites along Mendeleev Ridge and seven samples from four locations on the Chukchi Borderland are included (Fig. 1). Dredge site water depths vary from 3850 to 2100 m with the deepest samples from the Chukchi Borderland. Many of the selected samples were described in previous publications (Konstantinova et al., 2017; Hein et al., 2017)."

Jan 1, 2017

By Michael A. McNicholas

"Deep foundations utilize the varying soil conditions to provide the most cost-effective or practical scope for a given jobsite. Once the scope has been determined and the engineering applied, the element can be installed and tested to determine if it is suitable. QA/QC programs are vital for the assurance that the element designed by the engineer has not only been properly constructed but that the design assumptions are confirmed. The two deep foundation elements referenced are drilled displacement piles (DDP) and micropiles. Each of these elements allows for large loads to be distributed deep into the subsurface geology. Having the technology and ability to monitor the tests in real-time can be beneficial to a contractor in determining if the design is adequate or if adjustments need to be made on future piles. The proper QA/QC guidelines for installation and monitoring need to be in place to ensure that an accurate interpretation can be made on the pile. This paper discusses the typical testing and the positive results that the author has encountered using the latest advances in strain analysis.KEY TERMSDrilled Displacement Piles:A deep foundation system that has the ability to shed load into the geology through shaft resistance as well as tip resistance, similar to drilled shafts. This pile element is unique in that it has a consistent pile section and thus a consistent modulus of elasticity.Micropile:A deep foundation system used in applications where the foundation lies over material not suitable for a spread footing and the ideal soil stratum is deep below the foundation. Micropiles will have two different cross-sections consisting of a cased section and an uncased section. For this reason, this pile type requires additional analysis when computing stress-strain relationships.Geokon Strain Gauges:Instrumentation such as Models 4911A-4911 Vibrating Wire Strain Gauges ( known as Sister Bars) are designed to be embedded in grout and calculate loads based on the change on grout strain over a period of time.Stress:A pile element is under a compression (axial loading) load when a force acts along its axis and is normal to the plane of the section. The corresponding stress the pile is experiencing is described as a normal stress. The stress is obtained by dividing the magnitude of the load distributed over the cross-section by the area of the pile cross-section, as shown in Eq. 1."

Jan 1, 2017

"In many gold deposits, a reasonable amount of the gold that remains in the cyanide leach tailing is associated with pyrite. Some gold plants have found it economical to incorporate gravity circuits on the cyanide leach tailing to recover the gold bearing pyrite before subjecting it to fine grinding, then recycling the ground pyrite back to the cyanide leach circuit. For low grade gold deposits the loss of gold bearing pyrite is exacerbated as the broader process economics normally favour a coarse grind (> 150 ?m). An option that has received attention over the last decade is to recover the gold bearing sulphides in the milling circuit by gravity, similar to the widely-practiced gravity recovery of free liberated gold. The modelling and simulation of a gravity gold circuit in a milling flowsheet is relatively simple compared with a gold bearing pyrite circuit, as the recycle advantages and breakage functions for gold and pyrite are quite different. This current work represents an attempt to simulate the gravity recovery of gold bearing sulphides in a milling circuit that also incorporates fine grinding, using relatively simple simulation models. The simulation results are further explored with reference to the economics of this type of circuit.INTRODUCTION It is well known that gold is associated with pyrite in most sulphide gold deposits and that the amount of gold associated with pyrite will vary from deposit to deposit. Most of the gold associated with pyrite is liberated in the grinding circuit during the processing of a gold ore. However, some gold remains occluded in the pyrite and is lost in the final leach tailings. Little information is available in the literature on methods to enhance gold liberation from pyrite by specifically removing pyrite, either in the grinding circuit or from the final tailings stream, and grinding it finer. One of the earliest record of this approach is described by King (King, 1949) where pyrite present in Witwatersrand gold ores was recovered by circular jigs and Johnson barrels followed by fine grinding of the concentrate prior to cyanide leaching. Dominy et al., 1970, provides information on the use of Yuba jigs to recover pyrite from the discharge end of ball mills. Again, the jig concentrate was ground to a fine particle size before cyanide leaching to recover the liberated gold. Unfortunately, no information is provided in these articles on the additional gold recovery from implementing these circuits in a flowsheet. Martins et al., 1993, provides details of a gravity circuit using Reichert cones and spirals to recover gold bearing pyrite from a cyanide leach tailings followed by fine grinding of the pyrite concentrate in a Tower mill. The ground concentrate returned to the front end of the already installed leach circuit. Overall recoveries were increased by some 2% to 4% depending on the amount of gold and pyrite in the plant feed."

Jan 1, 2017

"The first SkimAir flash flotation cell was installed in Outokumpu’s Hammaslahti Copper Concentrator in 1982 to prevent overgrinding of soft sulphides in the milling circuit. Since this first installation the popularity of the flash flotation has fluctuated depending on metal market conditions and regional preferences. Units have been installed in many commodities including copper, lead, gold, PGMs, silver and nickel. Though it has been successfully employed in many operations around the world, flash flotation technology is still not well understood by many in the mining industry. This paper will discuss aspects of flash flotation flowsheet development along with some of the metallurgical and engineering considerations required to successfully incorporate flash flotation into new or existing milling circuits. This paper will also try and debunk some of the myths that exist around flash flotation cells and their operation. Case studies of flash flotation implementation will be discussed.IntroductionModern flash flotation technology was developed several decades ago by Outokumpu, with the first commercial installation of this technology being at the Hammaslahti concentrator in Finland in 1982 (Kallioinen & Niitti, 1985). This was a relatively modestly sized SK80 cell producing final grade copper concentrate directly from the flash flotation cell operating in the grinding circuit. Since that time the size and number of flash flotation cells installed globally has grown considerably to the point where today, it is a widely known application of flotation technology for amenable ores. Owing to their long history in developing the technology, Outotec are the market leader with their SkimAir range of flash flotation cells. Though there is a general awareness of flash flotation process in the mineral processing industry, there is a lack of detailed understanding of the process and the benefits it can provide to new and existing operations."

Jan 1, 2017

By Paul J. Sabatini, Yazen A. Khasawneh

"A Demag CC1800 crawler crane was partially erected on crane mats adjacent to a seawall when settlements near a corner of the crane mat area were observed to be slightly larger than previously assessed. A ground improvement program including installation of dry soil cement mix (DSM) piers was implemented to improve soil bearing capacity. Due to near-surface obstructions, only 75 percent of the DSM piers were installed to the design depth. Because of the partial installation of the DSM piers, an evaluation of the crane pad stability and the effect of the crane loading on the stability of an adjacent 10-ft high concrete seawall, which was believed to have limited (if any) reserve capacity, was required. A two-dimensional finite element model was developed to evaluate the responses of the partially improved ground and the sea wall to the loads imposed by the crane. Geotechnical site investigation and laboratory testing programs were performed to better define the subsurface conditions near the area where settlements occurred and to provide the required mechanical parameters for the soil constitutive model. Analysis results indicate that total and differential settlements of the crane pad and the increase in load on the seawall were tolerable provided limited excavation and replacement of weak dredged soils outside the DSM area would be implemented.INTRODUCTION & BACKGROUNDA Demag CC1800 was erected on 8 ft × 16 ft crane lattice mats at about 12 ft from an existing seawall. Approximately 3.5 in. of subsidence was observed at one corner of the crane mats, while the crane was partially erected and stationary. The approximate location of the crane mats with respect to the existing seawall when the subsidence occurred is shown on Fig. 1.The seawall consists of a reinforced concrete wall connected by reinforced concrete bents to a composite section of sheet pile wall; the total depth of the seawall is about 29 ft. The bents are spaced at about 20’4” and supported by five piles at each bent location. The composite sheet pile consists of concrete and a sheet pile section with a reinforced concrete wale section. The retaining wall is about 10 ft in height and is supported at three levels. The first support level comprises a 2-½” diameter steel rod near the top of the wall spaced at 40’8” the second and third level supports comprise 1-½” diameter steel rods spaced at about 5’6”. The second level support is inclined at about 10 degrees below horizontal and the third level support is oriented horizontally through the wall footing. A schematic of the seawall section is shown on Fig. 2.A geotechnical site investigation was implemented soon after the subsidence was observed. The program included advancing four borings to a depth ranging from 16 ft below ground surface (bgs) to about 30 ft bgs. In general, the investigation showed sandy material (likely fill that was used behind the retaining wall) from the ground surface in two borings located immediately behind the retaining wall. The other two borings furthest from the retaining wall showed very soft to soft clay (possibly dredged material) from the ground surface to a depth of about 10 ft bgs. Based on this information, the ultimate bearing capacity of the subsoils was estimated to range from 1,200 to 2,000 pounds per square feet (psf). From the anticipated crane loading (weight of the crane and loading lifts), a minimum allowable bearing capacity of about 1,500 psf would be required for safe operation. To achieve the required bearing capacity a ground improvement program was selected and implemented."

Jan 1, 2017

By X. Louw

"This paper examines the change in surface properties of the Polyurea used on spirals at different operational times: unused spiral, 28 months in operation and 58 months in operation. This is being done to investigate the alleged statement that spirals have a decrease in spiral separation efficiency after a certain period of operational time. Observing the surface characteristics under 1.5x and 36x magnification it can be concluded that the surface roughness decreases with increased operational time. This may be explained by a decrease in air inclusions and streak lines as the spiral surface wears. Decreased surface roughness should in theory have a beneficial effect on spiral separation performance. This leads to the conclusion that if a decrease in spiral separation performance is observed after a certain period of operation, it can’t be attributed to the change in surface properties. Uneven wear of the spiral surface, material creep or application of force to the spiral will change the profile of the spiral and could cause an adverse effect on spiral separation performance. The metallurgical test work showed that the best results are obtained at 30 - 35% solids by mass in the spiral feed. The iron recovery was significantly higher in the new spiral in comparison to the 2012 and 2010 spirals. The mass yield to concentrate in the new spiral was approximately three times more than for the older spirals. In conclusion, the yield combined with the grade, which equals the recovery was the best for the new spiral.IntroductionAn investigation was launched to research the common belief that spirals experience a decrease in efficiency, and therefore recovery, after a certain period of operation (a period of seven years has been used in the industry). The properties of the spiral that may have an effect on the efficiency are:"

Jan 1, 2017

By J. R. Kadambi, J. Furlan, Kucukal E.

"Hydrocyclones are used in various industrial applications, including mineral processing and tailings management, to separate or classify solid particles and/or liquid droplets from multiphase feed. The fluid flow in a hydrocyclone (used in mineral processing) was investigated numerically and experimentally using particle-image velocimetry (PIV) and refractive index matching techniques. Two turbulence models were used in the calculations: the k–? model and the Reynolds stress model. Particle image velocimetry measurements were taken at various spatial locations along the cyclone. Computational results were validated globally using pressure and flow-rate readings at the boundaries, and locally by comparing the PIV velocity-vector maps and profiles.RÉSUMÉ On utilise les hydrocyclones dans diverses applications industrielles, dont la minéralurgie et la gestion des résidus, pour séparer les particules solides et/ou les gouttelettes liquides de l’alimentation polyphasée, ou pour les classifier. Une étude numérique et expérimentale sur l’écoulement des fluides dans un hydrocyclone (dont on se sert en minéralurgie) a été menée à l’aide des techniques de vélocimétrie par images de particules (PIV, de l’anglais particle image velocimetry) et d’appariement des indices de réfraction. Deux modèles de turbulence ont été utilisés dans ces calculs, à savoir le modèle de turbulence k–? et le modèle aux tensions de Reynolds (RSM, de l’anglais Reynolds stress model). La valeur de la PIV a été mesurée à diverses positions spatiales le long du cyclone. Les résultats de ces calculs ont été validés globalement à l’aide de relevés des pressions et du coefficient d’écoulement d’une extrémité à l’autre de l’hydrocyclone, et localement à des coordonnées spatiales spécifiques en comparant les cartes et les profils du vecteur vitesse PIV.INTRODUCTIONA hydrocyclone is a piece of equipment used to separate and/or classify solid particles or liquid droplets from liquid solid or liquid-liquid feed. Versatile in application, hydrocyclones have been widely used in industrial applications including the food, oil, power generation, chemical, and mineral processing industries. The first hydrocyclone was introduced in 1891 by Bretney to purify various liquids (Bretney, 1891). Hydrocyclones have a relatively simple design with no moving parts, which leads to an efficient separation process."

Jan 1, 2017

By Clinton O. Rex, Adam S. Hurley, W. Morgan NeSmith

"Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport underwent a $1.2 billion dollar expansion project centered on the construction of the new Maynard H. Jackson International Terminal. Passenger access between the new International Terminal and the domestic airport facilities is primarily via underground Automated People Mover (APM) trains. Prior to this expansion, the APM tunnel terminated beneath Concourse E, which previously served all international flights. The new International Terminal is located approximately ½-mile from the previous terminus of the APM tunnel.A paper describing the general approach to excavation support for construction of the entire APM tunnel extension from under Concourse E to the new International Terminal was published by two of the authors (Hurley and NeSmith, 2014). One of the features of note of the approach involved the intersection of the proposed new alignment of the APM tunnel extension under Concourse E with the old terminus. Specifically, the new tunnel extension conflicted with the location of the existing Auger Pressure Grouted (APG) piles supporting four columns in Concourse E. This paper presents design and installation details of the micropile underpinning approach used to support the existing columns to allow for the proposed excavation including the cutting and removal of the existing APG piles, while allowing Concourse E to remain in service during construction.PROJECT DETAILSGeneralThe construction of the APM extension required an excavation support system for a 450-ft long, 55-ft deep excavation across Taxiway Dixie and a 900-ft long, 30-ft deep excavation beneath the basement of existing Concourse E. The excavation under Concourse E required both excavation support and support of the existing columns over the proposed excavation zone. A general overview of the work area is shown on Figure 1."

Jan 1, 2017

By J. Kretschmann

"By the end of the 1950s, the German hard coal mining industry produced 150 million tons of hard coal per year in 170 collieries with 600,000 employees. At that time, 70% of the primary energy demand of the Federal Republic of Germany was covered by domestic coal. However, due to coal mining becoming an increasingly globalized business and the oil and gas industry producing with lower costs, the German domestic hard coal industry stood constantly under restructur-ing pressure. The industry declined until the end of its life cycle. In 2007, a political understanding was arranged to phase out German hard coal mining in a socially acceptable manner by the end of 2018. This decision required a new strategy for the coal mining industry. Being strictly finalized, the German hard coal mining industry has to be prepared for the post-mining era. To create a sustainable development strategy, the long-term impacts of coal mining activities in Germany concerning the environmental, economic and social dimensions will be analyzed systematically and forward-looking. The regional and social responsibility during the closing process and for the post-mining era will be emphasized. High technical standards in environmental protec-tion and post-mining technologies, as well as long term experiences in the development of former mine sites to create new jobs are significant from an international point of view. The traditionally constructive social partnership between employers, union, and employees has enabled long-term stable adaption processes and avoided social friction. The sustainability strategy of the German hard coal mining industry can be regarded as a role model for other mining countries and regions facing similar transition challenges. INTRODUCTION Principally, mining is a finite business that reaches its end if the deposits are depleted or the raw materials can no longer be mined in an economically profitable way. However, the impact of mining is po-tentially an infinite one – at least if you measure it at a human time scale. Mining always means interfering with geological and ecological structures that cannot be reversed to their original condition. In general, the mining cycle (Figure 1) can be divided into three phases: 1. The exploration phase, in which the deposit is investigated to determine its technical and economic profitability. The period of these undertakings is relatively short and can lead to the launch of mining operations. 2. What follows is the actual mining phase which usually lasts for a long time and ends latest when all deposits are fully depleted. This lifespan may be shortened if the economic conditions (production cost or market price) deteriorate. Nevertheless, mining may be resumed if those conditions become favorable once more (examples are silver mining in Germany or rare earths mining in the USA). 3. The longest phase, however, is the post-mining phase as the human interference into geology and nature is usually inten-sive and irreversible. Mining can lead to consequences which have a permanently adverse impact on people and the environment; therefore, they have to be managed as best we can (1)."

Jan 1, 2017

By Michael Goldin, Jonathan Ladner, Thomas Peacock, Nathaniel Johnson, Patrick Haley, Kris van Nijen, Andrew Rzeznik, Pierre Lermusiaux, Matthew Alford, Carlos Munoz-Royo

Surface processing vessels for deep-sea nodule mining operations will produce dewatering plumes that will be released at some depth into the ocean water column. We are studying all aspects of this part of the nodule mining process. First, we have developed analytical and numerical models to determine the effects of highly non-uniform, realistic stratifications on forced, compressible plumes with finite initial size. The classical plume model is developed to take into account the effects of compressibility and thermal conduction through the dewatering pipe. Our results show how small-scale features of a realistic stratification can have a large effect on a plume, and provide a basis for determining at what depth dewatering plumes can be released. These results form the basis for our PLUMEX field experiments, in which we will study the dynamics of dewatering plumes over the course of one week of field tests from the vessel R/V Sally Ride. The field experiments will use a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) and a Phased-Array Doppler Sonar (PADS) system to study the characteristics of the dewatering plumes. The subsequent transport of the material in the dewatering plume will be monitored via shipboard surveys and, potentially, Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) operations, and these studies will be integrated with near real-time, data assimilating numerical model predictions. The ultimate goal of this project is to develop a field validated, recommend strategy for the release and monitoring of dewatering plumes, to help inform the development of ISA regulations and the planning of industrial operations.

Jan 1, 2017

By Tae Hwan Lee, Jun-Shin Lee, Daejin Kwag, Sangchul Bang, Gerard T. Houlahan, Moo Sung Ryu

"Geotechnical engineers have been installing innovative, permanent underwater foundation systems utilizing suction buckets for the offshore industry since the early 1980s (Senpere and Auvergne, 1982). This foundation system has been successfully used on numerous and various types of offshore structures in a wide range of environments. Suction buckets have numerous advantages compared to conventional underwater foundation systems. The more notable advantages include easy installation, large loading capacity, low noise and retrievability. The application of reduced water pressure inside the bucket facilitates the installation of the suction buckets, where a suction pump attached at the top of the bucket can accomplish the entire driving operation. Because of this efficient operation, very large suction buckets can be driven into the seafloor, which eliminates the use of a large number of small piles.In Korea, one of the most economical and reliable renewable energy sources is wind power; however, onshore wind power generation has encountered many problems, such as the lack of favorable sites and public concerns about noise and environmental damage. Consequently, offshore wind power generation has attracted increasing attention due to its abundant potential, high efficiency of grid connection, and availability of easy expansion.In November 2011, the government of Korea announced a national offshore wind power development roadmap, which targeted its offshore wind power generation with the goal of becoming one of the top three nations in the world for offshore wind power generation. Korea Electric Power Corporation Research Institute (KEPRI) is the main research arm of the Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) and conducts research and development on electricity, power generation, renewable energy and other energy-related matters. KEPRI ultimately provides forefront knowledge and leadership to KEPCO with respect to energy and related areas for its near- and long-term needs. Financial support for the overall project, of which the suction bucket foundation system installed for the pilot phase wind turbine is described below, was provided from the New and Renewable Energy Program of the Korea Institute of Energy Technology Evaluation and Planning funded by the Korean Government Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy."

Jan 1, 2017

By Zhe Liu, Liping Xiao, Jichi Bai, Xuefei Luan

"In order to study the removal efficiency of Cu2+ from acid mine drainage by prepared bentonite-steel slag composite particles, adsorption experiment was carried out. The composite particles were characterized by X-ray Diffraction analysis technique (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Fourier Transform Infrared spectrometer (FTIR). The results show that: the composite particles can release alkali to neutralize the acid of acid mine drainage; the adsorption and chemical precipitation of Cu2+ occurred in the whole reaction process; the removal amount of composite particles on Cu2+ was 9.88 mg/g when the reaction reached equilibrium; the FTIR spectra revealed the existence of surface complexation; the SEM micrographs suggested that the composite particles would continue to adsorb and coagulate Cu2+ after the composite particles surface adsorbing Cu2+ and forming precipitate, namely, there was synergistic reaction of adsorption and coagulation; the XRD patterns further showed the existence of cation exchange and revealed that the states of Cu2+ in the surface of the composite particles was Cu-Si-O mineral phase and CuO(Cu(OH)2) polymerization precipitation. The bentonite-steel slag composite particles which can play a role of adsorption-coagulation synergism are excellent multifunctional green environmental mineral materials to treat acid mine drainage containing heavy metal ions.Introduction It is reported (Zuo and He 2013) that with the rapid development of industry, the world demand for mineral resources is increasing, while the problem of mine environmental pollution is becoming more and more serious due to the large amount of mining. The pollution of mine wastewater has become a global problem, in which acid mine drainage (AMD) is one of the most serious waste water. It is also reported (Cong and Zhao 2003) that acid mine drainage containing high concentrations of heavy metals and having low pH value, causing serious negative influence to the mining production and ecological environment. Acid mine drainage is one of the most serious environmental pollution to the mining industry. In recent years, it has been widely concerned by scholars at home and abroad."

Jan 1, 2017

By N. Duru

"Gravity concentration is still a challenging area in the mineral industry. This is mainly because of the fine size valuable mineral losses to the tailings during its application. But the recent developments in centrifugal separation methods and their mutual application with conventional separation techniques has increased mineral recoveries. In this paper, field application of conventional gravity separation methods with the combination of 2” diameter hydrocyclone cluster unit and a multi gravity separator (MGS) was discussed. Additionally, particle size distribution and chromite content of the plant streams is presented and initial laboratory test results were compared with the actual plant data throughout the paper. As expected, field data showed derivations from the laboratory tests but the combination of MGS and conventional gravity separation techniques resulted in gravity separation of -0.1 mm chromite particles. INTRODUCTION The purpose of this mineral processing plant project was to investigate the possibility of upgrading chromite ore from 12% to 48% Cr2O3 and having final tailings assay as 2% Cr2O3. For this reason, initially a set of laboratory gravity separation studies were conducted to evaluate the performance of combination of 2” diameter hydrocyclone cluster and multigravity separator. After obtaining successful results from the laboratory work, a feasibility study was initiated. Economical results of the feasibility study showed that an achievable high net present and return on investment values. Following the investment decision; engineering, equipment procurement, construction of the processing plant was completed in eighteen months. This paper focuses on the initial laboratory test work results, operational data of the 2” diameter hydrocyclones and MGS units; resulted chromite recoveries. Processed ore has the chromite associated with serpentine and olivine minerals. The chromite particles are generally in round shapes with sizes between 50 µm to 1600 µm and average size of 450 µm. The microscope images of the chromite and associated formations are presented on Figure 1.Chromite is formed in mixture with iron oxides, with varying amounts of magnesium, aluminum. The average chemical composition of the representative drill core samples of the ore deposit is given on Table 1."

Jan 1, 2017

By B. Hohenstein, B. McBain, B. de Jong

"The automated fire assay system (Fast In-line Fire Assay or FIFA) has not found acceptance in the Au mining industry as the lower measurable limit of 0.20 ppm did not allow Au tailings to be measured with confidence. The development of arrested cupellation has overcome this hurdle which was a limiting factor in the FIFA 1 process. In the new automated fire assay process, automated sample preparation, fluxing, fusion and separation of a Pb button are essentially similar to the FIFA 1 process, albeit with some improvements. However, the game-changer is the development and incorporation of arrested cupellation into the automated system, now called FIFA 2. The purpose of arrested cupellation is to reduce the 50 g Pb button to a 5 g Pb button by partial cupellation in a specially developed arrested cupellation system thereby concentrating the Au in the Pb by a factor of 10 and in so doing moving them into higher concentration ranges in the mini-button where they can be read on the spark spectrometer. Results show that concentrations down to 0.02 ppm Au in geological materials can now be determined using arrested cupellation in the FIFA 2 process, an order of magnitude improvement over FIFA 1.INTRODUCTION Traditional fire assay for Au has remained virtually unchanged for 3000 years. It has survived for so long because it is accurate, has relatively low detection limits and is relatively inexpensive. However, it is labour intensive, has a long turn-around time (typically at least 7 hours), is environmentally unfriendly and exposes assay operators to potentially unsafe conditions (toxic fumes, toxic dust and extreme heat from furnaces). The NiS collection method is not as effective for the assay of Au as it is for the PGEs. A rapid, accurate, cost-effective method for the determination of Au and the Platinum Group Elements (PGEs) in geological materials would be a tremendous benefit to mining companies. Many of these objectives have been met by the FIFA 1 (Fast In-line Fire Assay) developed some 15 years ago in which automated methods have replaced the manual procedures which are part and parcel of conventional fire assay. However, concentrations below 0.2 ppm have been very difficult to achieve with sufficient reliability."

Jan 1, 2017

By D. Yokom, T. Katsabanis, E. Tremblay

"The mining industry has always faced the problems of replacing retired mining professionals, retaining their knowledge, continuously developing the skills of local talent and employing under-represented groups. In expansionary scenarios the industry faces the additional challenge of increasing available talent. New talent has traditionally come from current mining programs; however, these programs have been declining in numbers, and those that remain face challenges such as fluctuating enrollments, and reduced budgets. Queen’s University and Northern College have partnered to develop an innovative new program that offers online mining education to engineering technologists seeking to upgrade their skills and obtain a Bachelor’s degree. The high quality, flexible curriculum, offered online, includes a wide range of learning activities that promote interaction (student-to-student, student-to-instructor, and student-to-content), and is enabled by modern learning technologies (an integrated learning platform, as well as a variety of types of purpose-built video, web conferencing, and simulation software). The program issues block transfer credit to college graduates, and consequently reduces the time to completion when compared to other Bachelor’s degrees in Mining. The curriculum has been carefully designed to enhance a balance of technical, managerial, and societal skills for students. The program also includes short summer field school sessions, where students gain practical application skills under the direct supervision of engineering experts. THE NEEDS OF INDUSTRY Canada is the world’s largest exporter of minerals, and the contribution of this sector to Canada’s gross national product is more than three times that of the automotive industry, representing approximately 4% of Canadian GDP (MiHR, 2015)1. According to a recent report by the Canadian Mining Industry Resources Council (MiHR, 2016)2, despite the recent downturn in commodity prices, the industry will continuously need to attract new engineers to replace talent retirements and prepare for the possibility of expansion when the industry recovers. As past experience indicates, the challenges during expansion times are severe and the effects on education counter-productive. For example, during the prolonged expansion cycle of 2006-2012, several new programs were started worldwide, and mining became the profession of choice for many young students. During the subsequent downturn in the industry, many of these programs face dwindling enrollments, placing their sustainability in question. However, there is a continual need by industry to retain employees, as well as attract and train local talent, while providing educational opportunities to its employees. High potential college graduates can find themselves reaching a ceiling in their advancement due to their lack of a University degree. Furthermore, there exists an under representation of women, immigrants, and Aboriginal peoples in the labour force, and engineering fields in general1,2. Traditional mining engineering programs have tried to respond to the needs of industry, as well as meet the needs of students seeking diverse and successful employment careers. These programs tend to cater to the educational needs and aspirations of a general population, and their ability to grow and respond to changing industry needs is constrained by the number of students they can attract, as well as the resources available to them in a steady-state scenario."

Jan 1, 2017

By Z. Henderson, J. Saylor, L. R. Mendoza

"Diesel particulate Matter (DPM) is a byproduct of fuel combustion in diesel engines. It is classified as a carcinogen, with associated respiratory and cardiovascular health effects. The composition, size, and concentration of DPM is dependent on factors such as engine type, loading and fuel composition. Though a number of DPM abatement and control strategies currently exist, particularly in underground mining environments, occupational exposures remain a serious health concern. As a novel abatement approach, DPM scavenging by fine water or “fog” droplets has been proposed and a laboratory set-up has been built to test the efficacy on engine exhaust. Here, we describe a series of tests that varied engine load, system flow rate and fog drop number density. While none of these factors had overwhelming effects on the results within the ranges tested, the improvement in DPM mass removal attributed to the fog treatment was about 45% on average in comparison to no treatment. INTRODUCTION Diesel engines have seen widespread use for well over a century due to their relatively high thermal efficiency and fuel economy1. More recently, however, adverse health risks of diesel exhaust have become increasingly clear. Many of these risks are associated with the physical and chemical properties of exhaust components1–3. The term diesel particulate matter (DPM) is used to refer to the solid components of diesel exhaust, which are a mixture of elemental and organic carbon (EC and OC) and minor constituents including sulfates and metal ash3. The OC fraction of DPM results from unburned fuel and lube oil, whereas EC or soot is formed during the combustion of locally rich regions within the fuel. DPM is classified as a carcinogen6,7 and epidemiological studies have demonstrated a positive correlation between long-term exposure to DPM and other combustion-related fine particulate and increased cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases8,9. Diesel engines operate in relative fuel rich/oxygen lean conditions and are characterized by relatively high emissions of particulate as compared to spark-ignition engines2,3,10. Typically, these emissions range from 107 – 109 particles/cc and cover two primary size ranges: the nuclei mode where particles have diameters less than about <50 nm, and the accumulation mode where diameters are from about 50-10,000 nm. Most OC resides in the nuclei mode as semi-volatile compounds, while most EC is in the accumulation mode3. The physical and chemical properties of DPM vary with the type of engine, fuel (e.g., petro- vs. bio-diesel) and operating conditions such as loading (i.e., a function of torque and rotational speed)2,3,9,11,12. Loading is a particularly important factor with respect to DPM toxicity9,13,14, and on the effectiveness of after-treatment technologies2,3,15. Engine load alone can affect the EC/OC ratio, and the size distribution and number density of DPM. For diesel engines, the load is roughly proportional to the equivalence ratio3, defined as the actual fuel/air ratio over the stoichiometric fuel/air ratio for complete combustion. Light loads generally favor the formation of OC and small particles. As load is increased the volatiles are oxidized leading to larger soot particles (i.e., EC), but lower total number density of DPM. With further loading, the formation of soot offsets the decrease in volatiles, resulting in increased DPM mean size and number density3."

Jan 1, 2017