DSpace Repository :: Browsing 03. Bachelor's Thesis by Title

03. Bachelor's Thesis

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APPLICATION OF GEOSTATISTICAL HIERARCHICAL CLUSTERING FOR GEOMETALLURGICAL DOMAINING
(School of Mining and Geosciences, 2023-03-17) Abil, Akmaral
Geometallurgical modeling is a pivotal component in the mining industry, serving to optimize ore processing and maximize profits. Machine learning techniques have gained immense popularity in this field due to their ability to group geological domains that possess similar mineralogical and metallurgical characteristics. The present research work delves into investigating the application of geostatistical hierarchical clustering (GHC) in geometallurgical modeling and the derivation of recovery functions. The research specifically targets a copper porphyry deposit situated in central Kazakhstan. Three clustering methods, namely, K-Means, K-Prototype, and GHC, were employed, with GHC proving to be the most effective. The other methods demonstrated satisfactory results applicable in simple cases requiring quick analysis. GHC affords flexibility in adjusting various factors, such as the coordinate and variables weights, takes into account spatial dependency, and allows for easy alteration of the minimum number of clusters. Post-clustering, multivariate regression analysis was performed in each domain, and both linear and nonlinear models were evaluated for their appropriateness. The nonlinear random forest model was deemed the most suitable, with an R2 index of 0.8746. Although the recovery equation could not be obtained in an algebraic form due to the complexity of the geological dataset, future recovery values can be predicted through machine learning by incorporating parameters into the model. The study found that the copper recovery function comprised independent variables such as throughput, P80, sulfur-to-copper ratio, aluminum oxide, and silver. The study recommends that this methodology be replicated on a larger dataset, as the provided one was restricted to a small portion of the entire block model. This research work contributes to the field of geometallurgical modeling by showcasing the potential of GHC for domaining and machine learning in enhancing the accuracy of recovery function derivation in the mining industry.
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APPLICATION OF MACHINE LEARNING TO THE PREDICTION OF WAVE VELOCITY IN A GIVEN MINE GROUND CONDITION
(Nazarbayev University School of Mining and Geosciences, 2024-04-19) Dauitbay, Zhaudir
This thesis explores the use of machine learning (ML) to predict wave velocities in mining environments, aiming to improve mining safety by reducing seismic risks like rockbursts. It challenges traditional, less accurate methods with an innovative approach that combines laboratory models and ML algorithms for more precise predictions. The study constructs physical models to replicate mine conditions and generate data for training ML models, from simple linear regression to complex deep neural networks. In a comprehensive analysis of predictive modeling techniques for seismic wave velocities, it was discovered that Linear Regression and Gradient Boosting outperformed, with an R-square value of 0.83, showcasing a balanced reduction in bias and variance. In contrast, the K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN) method's lower effectiveness implied that its proximity-based assumptions might be less relevant in seismic contexts, while the Deep Neural Network (DNN) model notably struggled, evidenced by a negative R-squared value of -0.81, wich is not possibble because Rsquare ranges between 0 and 1. It indicates substantial overfitting likely due to the complexity of the model and limited data. Among the models evaluated, Linear Regression emerged as the most fitting, owing to its simplicity, interpretability, and high accuracy, effectively avoiding overfitting and proving reliable for predicting seismic wave velocities. The findings advocate for future acquisition of more extensive datasets to potentially enhance the performance of complex models like the DNN, but within the current dataset's constraints, Linear Regression is identified as the superior predictive model for this purpose. Study firmly establishes ML's role in advancing seismic risk assessment in mining, opening avenues for future research in integrating ML with seismic data analysis.
Open Access
APPLICATION OF MICROWAVES FOR THERMAL EOR METHODS
(School of Mining and Geosciences, 2023-04-25) Sartayev, Zaur; Mustakhimov, Dias
Heavy oil reservoirs represent about 70% of the total oil reservoirs. EOR methods must be applied due to the low primary recovery of heavy oil reservoirs. The low primary recovery of these reservoirs is based on the viscosity of the heavy oil. Thermal EOR methods are the best to apply to extract more heavy oil. On-site combustion, gravity drainage with steam, and cyclic steam injection are the most famous thermal EOR methods. However, there will always be a demand for more productive methods of improving production with lower usage costs. Moreover, the growing concern about the environmental component of oil production may prompt the need to look for more suitable and profitable ways. One of these methods is electromagnetic heating, which can be even more efficient. This study compared the microwave heating method with the conventional thermal method. The effects of the microwave heating method on the viscosity of heavy oil and temperature alteration were analyzed. In addition, the effects of microwave power and water saturation were investigated on the impact of production efficiency using the experiment. From the experimental results, the microwave heating method gave better results in viscosity reduction. Overall, a higher power level showed a higher temperature alteration with a higher reduction in viscosity. In addition, higher water saturation gave higher results in temperature; however, from the efficiency side, the best choice for water saturation was identified, which is 10%.
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APPLICATION OF NOVEL GEOSTATISTICS METHODS ON SOUTH TORTKUDUK URANIUM ROLL-FRONT DEPOSIT, CHU-SARYSU, KAZAKHSTAN
(Nazarbayev University School of Mining and Geosciences, 2024-04-19) Abeuov, Alibek
Research thesis titled "Application of Novel Geostatistics Methods on South Tortkuduk Uranium Roll-Front Deposit, Chu-Sarysu, Kazakhstan" provides a comprehensive integration of the geological and geostatistical tools and principles related to uranium roll-front deposits. The thesis is a case study of an about 15m thick reservoir unit of the Uyuk Formation (Lower Eocene) in the South Tortkuduk uranium field located in southern Kazakhstan. The study area covers 45 hectares suitable for placing 98 development production cells. The thesis is organized into several sections, delving into the importance of uranium, the geological context of roll-fronts, and the application of advanced geostatistical methods. Methodologically, advanced mapping techniques, including parallel cross-sections coupled with conceptual mapping of three-dimensional geobodies, are employed to delineate reservoir and non-reservoir facies associations (architectural elements), shedding light on the role of sedimentary structures in controlling uranium mineralization. Furthermore, sophisticated 3D modeling in Isatis.neo and Petrel software enables the probabilistic geological simulation (PGS), augmented by the integration of vertical proportion curves (VPC) and horizontal distribution estimation. The culmination of these methodological endeavors reveals novel insights into uranium mineralization dynamics, challenging conventional models by suggesting that sedimentary structures like mud-plug deposits may act as lateral barriers during uranium migration, influencing mineralization distribution within the deposit as seen from both mineralization and facies modeling. This research represents a significant contribution to the field, pushing the boundaries of knowledge in uranium geology and geostatistics. By bridging a comprehensive literature review with advanced modeling techniques, it offers a holistic understanding of roll-front deposits' complexities. The findings not only have implications for predictive models and exploration strategies but also contribute to advancing sustainable energy solutions on a global scale.
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THE APPLICATION OF PROJECTION PURSUIT MULTIVARIATE TRANSFORMATION (PPMT) TECHNIQUE IN COPPER MULTI-ELEMENT DEPOSITS
(Nazarbayev University School of Mining and Geosciences, 2024-04-12) Korniyenko, Artur
The contemporary mining sector extensively incorporates digital technologies all over the mining operations. These digital mine operations could be considered as more productive due to their ability to be used as an additional data during strategic mine planning activities. Geostatistics and mine planning are crucial processes for mining projects, including a range of valuable tools. Traditional methods of mine planning sometimes include oversimplifications and fail to take into account many sources of information that may aid in risk management and the development of more optimum designs. In the field of mine planning, deterministic approaches that often rely on a singular mineral resource model as an input, being replaced by a stochastic approaches that involve the integration of many realizations that are equally probable, so that risk management based on worst case scenario concept could be done. In addition, such bottleneck of typical deterministic approaches (kriging) as the underestimation of low values and the overestimation of high values for the underlying grade as well as smoothing effect are being avoided. In the context of multi-element deposits, the use of multivariate geostatistics is recommended in order to more accurately replicate the multivariate correlation between the variables. The latter aspect is particularly critical since standard geostatistical approaches are unable to account for such specific trait as spatial continuity of the deposit, resulting in a significant reduction in the accuracy of the final resource model used for mine planning. This study proposes the comparison of stochastic methodologies such as independent simulations, co-simulations and Projection Pursuit Multivariate Transformation (PPMT), so that the most productive methodology could be suggested as the most accurate one in terms of reproducing the intrinsic correlation coefficient between two of the most correlated variables in this deposit that are copper and molybdenum. In addition, the suggestion of the method was done based on the reproduction of the main statistical parameters such as mean, variance, linear (Pearson’s correlation coefficient) and non-linear correlation coefficient (Spearman's rank correlation coefficient) coefficients and the comparison of them with the data measured by drillholes.
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APPLICATION OF THE POLYMER FLOODING TO ENHANCE OIL RECOVERY IN A SPECIFIC KAZAKHSTAN’S OIL FIELD
(Nazarbayev University School of Mining and Geosciences, 2022-04) Yerniyazov, Daniyar; Yesmukhambet, Madi
Oil and gas reservoirs at their initial state possess high energy that can be used for the extraction of natural resources for a long time. This period is called the primary production period. Primary recovery methods depend on the natural energy stored in the reservoir and nearby aquifer to produce oil. To generate oil (or gas), primary recovery relies on in situ fluids or rock expansion; particular techniques involve solution gas drive, gas cap drive, natural water drive, and rock compaction. In many reservoirs, a mixture of such recovery mechanisms exists, but one of them is usually dominant. Depending on the fluids and reservoir geometry, gravity can also help with recovery. However, primary recovery methods lose energy and oil production decreases with time. It is important to cover world energy demands, thus to keep oil production above economic limits secondary and tertiary recovery methods are applied. The specific Kazakhstan oilfield was produced by water flooding which is a secondary recovery method, which led to a high water cut. Additionally, the formation has high heterogeneity. Relying on previously mentioned factors, it was decided by the operating company to evaluate the applicability of polymer flooding through several laboratory tests. In this capstone project, rheology and thermal stability tests were performed for 4 different polymers. The purpose of this study is to find out the optimum polymer type with the most suitable concentration. Screening criteria are mainly according to the target viscosity of the polymer, which is 5 cp at reservoir conditions. The conducted experiments provided qualitative as well as quantitative results. All 4 polymers have demonstrated a proposed shear-thinning behavior. However, Polymer 1 showed abnormally high viscosity and that is why it was excluded. At the initial stage of thermal stability tests, roughly 10 days, viscosity degradation for all polymers was sharp. At the end of all evaluations polymers, 2 and 3 achieved a target viscosity of 5cp at concentrations of 1500ppm and 2100ppm respectively. Further experiments such as static and dynamic adsorption tests, core flooding, compatibility, and mechanical degradation experiments are suggested to fully examine the polymer behavior under reservoir conditions.
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ASSESSMENT OF BLAST-INDUCED VIBRATIONS AT BOZSHAKOL COPPER PORPHYRY MINE
(School of Mining and Geosciences, 2023-04-21) Myrzatayeva, Aruzhan
In open mines, vibration caused by blasting activities have a huge impact on pit stability and the stability of nearby buildings. It is necessary to determine the propagation and attenuation of the blast-induced vibration in the open-pit slope in order to gain a greater understanding of the impact of blasting activities in open-pit mines. To quantify the ground vibration Peal Particle Velocity (PPV) is evaluated for ground vibration assessments and control of damages during mining operations, pit wall stability and construction projects. This study aims to estimate ground attenuation parameters and assess blast-induced ground vibration using Peak Particle Velocity in observed areas. This thesis presents a literature review of previous studies, discussing their needs for this research and comparing previously used methods, methodology that is applied for identification of ground attenuation and rock mass impact determination on PPV outputs. In this study, ground vibration monitoring dataset was obtained from the Bozshakol open-pit copper porphyry mine in Ekibastuz town and employed for vibration analysis and determination of ground attenuation parameters at the Bozshakol copper operation. 33 blast-induced vibration signals data was collected during blasting and was interpreted by advanced vibration monitoring stations. Attenuation parameters for ground vibration were found by linear regression analysis, where the relationship between the Scaled Distance (SD) and Peak Particle Velocity (PPV) have been determined. The results determined specific site attenuation parameters of the ground through PPV for North, South and East walls of the open pit. Also, the rock mass effect on ground vibration attenuation and analysis of the effect of rock mass and structures on ground attenuation were discussed. Accurate prediction of PPV ensures pit slope stability, so calculation of ground attenuation is the most important part in assessment of blast-induced vibrations.
Open Access
ASSESSMENT OF THE POTENTIAL OF NATURAL SURFACTANT IN CARBONATE RESERVOIR
(School of Mining and Geosciences, 2023) Sabirova, Aruzhan; Zhuniskenov, Yermukhan
One of the main drawbacks of chemical enhanced oil recovery (CEOR) is to reduce the excessive use of chemicals. Recently, natural surfactants got recognition in CEOR since they are environmentally friendly, less toxic, and cheaper than traditional synthetic surfactants. However, the applicability of natural surfactants has yet to be tested under different conditions; thus, the research focuses on the natural saponin synthesized from the flaxseed oil available in Kazakhstan and its effect on efficiency of the available synthetic oil, octane. The primary extraction method was conducted by the saponification of the flaxseed oil. The study used the IFT-700 apparatus, which uses the pendant drop method to determine the interfacial tension (IFT) between surfactant and oil. The salinity variation between 0 and 35,000 ppm of NaCl resulted in critical micelle concentration (CMC) values of about 6 wt% for the solution with distilled water (DIW) and 2.5 wt% for the brine surfactant solution. The effect of temperature on the rheological properties of the natural surfactant solution was measured in the range of 25–55 °C. Interfacial tension alteration with oil at the CMC values for DIW and brine surfactant solutions was observed, with 76.36 and 48.54% IFT alteration, respectively. The core flooding with surfactant solutions resulted in an oil recovery of 72% for DIW and 74.6% for the brine solution. This study presented the potential of the extracted natural surfactant for the CEOR application as a low-cost and more accessible alternative to the traditionally used surfactants. Technically, the natural surfactants need more studies for their performance under salinity and temperature. However, the study is a direction to unmask the potential of Kazakhstan natural resources to fulfil its oil industry chemical needs.
Open Access
BLOCK SEQUENCING ANALYSIS AND IMPORTANCE OF MINING RECOVERY AND DILUTION IN MINE PLANNING
(Nazarbayev University School of Mining and Geosciences, 2022-03-25) Alimzhanov, Akseleu
A critical step in open pit mining is determining the appropriate sequence of block extraction, which has a significant impact on mining profitability. The open-pit mining block sequencing issue, which emerges at this stage, is described to find the optimal sequence in which blocks should be extracted following numerous physical and technological restrictions. Moreover, mine planning should take mining recovery and dilution into account and engage fully in planning and optimization processes. The optimal mining block sequencing provides the highest net present value (NPV) of the project. This paper proposes a mathematical model and software computation for the open-pit mine block sequencing in open pit mining operations. The primary goal was to analyze sequencing, the ultimate pit limit, pushbacks, and scheduling simulation findings, which correspond to real-world mining projects in Datamine Studio NPVS, and compare with optimistic and pessimistic scenarios. The results showed the highest Net present value is observed in Pit no. 88 in the optimistic scenario (+20% in price) – 914,612,423 $, while the lowest NPV results were in the pessimistic scenario (-20% in price) - 356,593,171 $ in Pit no. 82 Moreover, possible optimization improvements of block sequencing, ore recovery and dilution will be addressed. To demonstrate the superior attributes of the enhanced model, an open-pit gold mine case study was presented. The combination of direct block sequencing and the traditional method allows for improving NPV results by 0.43% which is regarded as an achievable outcome. Mine planning software must develop and adapt to meet current requirements and improve innovative solutions to existing block sequencing problems.
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CHARACTERIZATION OF CHROMITE MINING WASTE VIA MINERALOGICAL AND GEOCHEMICAL APPROACHES, KHROMTAU SITE
(School of Mining and Geosciences, 2023-04) Baltabayeva, Sara
Chromite mining is known to generate substantial amounts of waste materials, which may contain potentially harmful minerals or elements that can impact the environment. In this study, mineralogical approaches were employed to characterize the chromite mining waste at the Khromtau site, which is one of the prominent chromite producers in Kazakhstan. The mineralogical characterization involved identifying and quantifying the minerals present in the waste materials using hand specimen and conventional optical microscopic techniques. The results of the study provided valuable information on the mineral composition of chromite mining waste, which can aid in environmental assessment, waste management strategies, resource recovery opportunities, and implementation of mitigation measures. The findings of this study contribute to the understanding of the environmental impacts associated with chromite mining waste and provide insights for sustainable waste management practices in the mining industry.
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CHARACTERIZING THE SHAFT DEFORMATION IN THE TISHINSKY MINE SUBJECTED TO SURFACE SUBSIDENCE
(Nazarbayev University School of Mining and Geosciences, 2022-04-04) Smagambetov, Bekzhan
Shafts play an important function in terms of safety and profitability throughout the life of a mining operation. The access shaft stability has always been a significant challenge in mining engineering, especially as mining depths have increased. Therefore, it is vital to determine the deformation and failure mechanisms of the about 970 m shaft in the Tishinsky mine where the main shaft has experienced major deformation together with surface subsidence. Driven by these reasons, the aim of this study is to characterize the ground deformations and movements in order to establish any relationship between the surface deformation and the shaft deformation. To this end, ground monitoring data were collected and analyzed. It was found that the shaft deformation was highly correlated with both horizontal and vertical surface displacement, especially for 2018-2019. The maximum deformation reached 0.07 m at the level about 600 m. However, the deformation decreased in 2020 after ground control measures were taken.
Open Access
COMPARISON OF SEQUENTIAL GAUSSIAN SIMULATION AND SIMPLE KRIGING FOR GRADE PREDICTION
(Nazarbayev University School of Mining and Geosciences, 2024-04-19) Kassymkan, Talgat
Accurate prediction of grades plays an important role in the mining industry: differentiation of valuable ore and non-profitable waste material is a key step in Mine Planning. This paper delves into the comparison between sequential Gaussian simulation (SGS) and simple kriging methodologies concerning their efficacy in grade prediction and the classification of ore and waste materials. The study investigates the application of both systems to predict the ore grades within iron deposit. It investigates their abilities to accurately predict the spatial distribution of ore grades across varied geological formations. Furthermore, this research aims to ascertain whether SGS methods exhibit superior performance in classifying materials into ore and waste categories compared to traditional simple kriging systems. The findings of this study are expected to provide valuable insights into the strengths and limitations of SGS and simple kriging methods for grade prediction in mining operations. This comparative analysis aims to aid mining engineers and professionals in selecting the most effective methodology for optimizing resource delineation and decision-making processes in mining projects.
Open Access
COMPOSITIONAL VARIATIONS OF GARNETS IN ECLOGITIZED ROCKS, KOKCHETAV MASSIF, KAZAKHSTAN: IMPLICATIONS TO THE ORIGIN AND CRUSTAL PROCESSES
(School of Mining and Geosciences, 2023-05-03) Saduov, Ilyas
Mineral chemistry is widely used in the past three decades to understand original setting and the source composition of rocks, thereby unravelling crustal processes. A good example is chrome spinel. The trace element composition of garnet is also in use to study the composition of protolith in metamorphic rocks since early 2000. The objective of this thesis is to see the plausibility of using garnet major element chemistry to understand about the protolith composition and the crustal processes. The samples used in this study were collected from Kokchetav massif, located around the city of Kokchetav, northern Kazakhstan. This region widely studied and is known worldwide for subduction related high-pressure metamorphism happened ca. 500 Ma ago, during the formation of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt. The Kokchetav massif is also famous for the occurrence of diamond bearing meta-sedimentary rocks. Several garnet bearing rocks samples were collected from the region that includes eclogite, gabbro, garnet amphibolite and pelitic schist along with non-garnetiferous granite, amphibolite and granitic gneiss. Thin- sections of all 15 samples collected were made for petrography; out of which garnet bearing samples were selected for detailed study and analyses. The petrography revealed eclogite has a mineral assemblage - Grt+Omph+Rt+Qtz±Amph; gabbro- Grt+Omph+Amph+Qtz±Plg; garnet amphibolite– Grt+Amph+Qtz with minor inclusions of omphacite and pelitic schist- Grt+Phe+Qz; exhibiting granoblastic-ameboid granoblastic to porphyroblastic textures. The major element chemistry of garnet were determined using SEM-EDS technique. The mineral chemistry shows similar composition for Si and Al composition but variations in Mg, Ca and the Fe contents. Compositionally all garnets are of almandine variety. The XFe= Fe/(Fe+Mg) values of eclogite, gabbro and garnet amphibolite are in the range 0.654-0.799; 0.656-0.665; 0.817-0.865 respectively. However, for the pelitic schist XFe falls between 0.876-0.922, indicating a sharp change in the composition. Since all of the rocks included in this study have experienced regional high-pressure metamorphism, in can be postulated that they are all affected by similar physical conditions i.e., pressure, temperature, although, depth of metamorphism can affect the mineral composition due to changes in geothermal gradient. The thesis argue that a drastic change of Fe content in these rocks esp. the pelitic schist is a reflection of the protolith composition. While, eclogite, gabbro and the garnet amphibolite probably can have common protolith-i.e., Fe rich basalt indicating a fractionated source with crustal inputs; the high Fe content in the pelitic schist shows it has more crustal input, also because of the presence of K, Al bearing phengite mica in its assemblage. Crustal inputs in various levels points towards a mixed source that can occur due to crust-mantle interaction. The most efficient processes where crust interacts with mantle is the due to subduction, as also reported in several previous studies from this region. Hence, the results from this study is a proof that major element composition of garnet can be a good proxy to understand stand petrogenesis and related crustal processes esp.in the metamorphic rocks.
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DETERMINATION OF MAGMA COMPOSITION USING COMPOSITIONAL VARIATIONS OF OLIVINE IN SERPENTINITES, KEMPERSAI MASSIF, KAZAKHSTAN
(Nazarbayev University School of Mining and Geosciences, 2024-04-26) Abdillayev, Arman
Serpentinites are widely recognized as important hosts for understanding mantle processes and magmatic evolution. This study focuses on the compositional variations of olivine in serpentinites collected from the Aktobe region within the Kempirsai Massif in the Southern Ural Mountains of Kazakhstan. The objective of this research is to investigate the applicability of olivine chemistry as a tool for interpreting the composition of the parent magma and the associated tectonic setting. Samples were collected from the Kempersai Massif, an area known for its complex geological history and the presence of serpentinites. Three samples, referred to as AK-3, AK-4, and AK-6, were taken from thin sections obtained from serpentinite rock formations in the research area. These particular samples were selected for their high concentration of olivine. The samples were then examined using scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) to analyze the major cation elements present in the olivine crystals. Notably, efforts were made to select large olivine crystals of approximately 200 microns to ensure their magmatic origin and minimize the influence of secondary processes. Initial results show some small differences in the composition of olivine in the samples that were studied. The differences seen in the chemistry of olivine give clues about the range of magma sources and processes at work in the Kempersai Massif. These variations could indicate the process by which magma is formed, such as different levels of partial melting. It is noteworthy that the high Forsterite (Fo) content (≥ .88-.92) shows that the olivine grains in these samples are magmatic and preserve the original magmatic composition. Understanding the petrogenetic processes preserved in olivine compositions is crucial for reconstructing the magmatic evolution of the Kempirsai Massif and the Southern Ural Mountains region. By decrypting the origins and changes of magmas, this study enhances our comprehension of the geological dynamics in the area and its impact on mineral exploration and resource assessment in comparable geological settings.
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DEVELOPMENT OF A DAMAGE/FAILURE MECHANISMS DATABASE FOR KAZAKHSTAN UNDERGROUND MINING INDUSTRY
(Nazarbayev University School of Mining and Geosciences, 2022-04) Akhmedya, Madyar
Mining is recognized for being one of the most dangerous industries in the world due to the difficult working conditions. Working in such hazardous circumstances in an underground mine often results in a variety of accidents. The working conditions at Kazakhstan’s underground mines have deteriorated owing to a lack of a risk-reduction plan and methodology. This paper evaluates different underground mines in Kazakhstan, demonstrates the employed mining method and observed failure modes. Risk assessment has long been recognized as a valuable technique for preventing accidents. In the underground mining sector, risk assessment tools play an important role in avoiding work-related accidents. However, geotechnical uncertainty is a significant source of severe incidents like stress-induced roof collapse, wedge failure, seismicity, etc., which result in human and financial losses. A geotechnical risk assessment performed early in the mine design process might assist justify a different mine design component, such as different support systems for a dangerous location within the mine openings during mining. As a result, the goal of this research is to create a damage/failure database aiming at the development of a geomechanical risk assessment methodology. This work identifies a thematic structure linked to risk assessment and management for the examined Kazakhstan mining sector. The developed database illustrates the dominant modes of failure within the Kazakhstan underground mining conditions. The second goal of this research is to determine practical design guidelines and charts between key and governing geomechanical design parameters. The study will provide opportunities to establish future research objectives for Kazakhstan mining industry where there are significant gaps between state-of-the-art research and mining operation in practice.
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DEVELOPMENT OF A WEIGHTING PROCEDURE FOR GEOMECHANICAL PARAMETERS INVOLVED IN CO2 STORAGE
(Nazarbayev University School of Mining and Geosciences, 2024-04-19) Zhumakanova, Dilnaz
This study focuses on methodical study of fault activation mechanisms associated with carbon dioxide (CO2) storage, with a focus on determining the underlying geomechanical properties of the caprock. The study uses the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to prioritize these parameters to improve the process for selecting critical geomechanical design data that underpins the analysis of potential CO2 storage sites. By integrating expert knowledge through a structured questionnaire, the study extends the methodology and provides realistic parameters for advanced numerical simulations. The study highlights the importance of injection pressure as the primary factor, emphasizing its dominant influence, followed by permeability and porosity, which are fundamental to estimating reservoir capacity and fluid dynamics within the reservoir. Conversely, the fault friction angle, although considered the least influential, requires attention due to its conditional influence on fault stability. The new application of AHP in this context represents a significant advance in the field of CO2 storage, offering a systematic approach to geomechanical risk assessment that is essential for storage planning and operational safety. Additionally, the study advances our understanding of key geomechanical parameters, facilitating the development of customized CO2 injection and containment strategies aimed at reducing risk and enhancing site integrity. Such strategic foresight is essential to the progress of carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies, a critical component of climate change mitigation efforts. In support of these findings, numerical simulations show a direct correlation between injection pressure and total displacement, as well as an inverse relationship with stress ratio, highlighting the importance of optimized injection strategies. The performance of RS2 software in 2D numerical simulations is also confirmed, demonstrating its usefulness in CO2 storage projects, and allowing the influence of additional parameters such as fault friction angle and rock mass fracturing to be explored.
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DISAPPEARING WETLANDS IN NORTHERN KAZAKHSTAN. THE CASE OF THE TALDYKOL LAKE.
(School of Mining and Geosciences, 2023) Kairat, Akbota
Wetlands play a crucial role in the ecosystem by providing shelter and food for various species and contributing to groundwater replenishment, water retention, and detention. They also prevent flooding in nearby ecosystems and maintain high water tables. However, wetlands have been significantly reduced, with an approximately 70% decrease from the previous century, particularly for inland natural wetlands. Anthropogenic activity and climate change have caused the Central Asian wetlands to be severely impacted globally. However, there is still a lack of precise data on the amount, area, and coverage of wetlands in Kazakhstan. Therefore, this research project focuses on assessing the impact of climate change and human activity on wetlands in Kazakhstan, with Taldykol Lake in Astana as a case study. The study will investigate Taldykol Lake’s changes over the last three decades, from 1992 to 2022. 3
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ECONOMIC IMPACT OF MINING IN KAZAKHSTAN
(School of Mining and Geosciences, 2023-03-31) Kizatov, Yeskendir
Kazakhstan is a country that economically relies on the export, especially on the export of the products of mining. Review of recent publications has proven the claim above. That is why mining sector has a significant impact on national economics. The research of data from the report, ordered by Minisrty of Industry and Infrastructure Development of Kazakhstan has shown that generally sector of mining in Kazakhstan is growing, however the taxation system has significant drawbacks, that are restraining it from sustainable development. These drawbacks are needed to be worked on.
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THE EFFECT OF PRODUCTIVE CAPACITIES ON MINING INDUSTRY OF KAZAKHSTAN
(Nazarbayev University School of Mining and Geosciences, 2024-04-19) Koyanbayeva, Zhuldyz
The thesis examines the relationship between Productive Capacities and mineral output in Kazakhstan, a country noted for its richness in a variety of mineral resources. As the demand for minerals continues to rise, it has been of particular interest to develop new mining sites. The abundance of deposits around the world has created competition among extractive countries, with the mineral potential becoming not the only decisive factor in investment decisions. The study identifies productive capacities that influence the mining output, hence, increasing the opportunity for further investments and development. The thesis identifies several significant variables in relation to annual mining output in Kazakhstan, including energy, transport, productive capacity index (PCI), private sector, and ICT. The findings underscore the importance of these factors in driving the mining industry’s productivity and output levels. By understanding the impact of these factors, Kazakhstan can potentially attract more mineral investments, develop new mining sites, and boost its economic state and employment rates.
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EFFECTS OF VOIDS AND FRACTURES ON SEISMIC WAVE VELOCITIES USING PHYSICAL LABORATORY MODELS
(Nazarbayev University School of Mining and Geosciences, 2022-04-01) Yessengossov, Zhangir
Seismicity is a crucial factor that should be considered in underground mines, it occurs due to natural earthquakes or due to human induced activity, primary reasons might be excavation of an orebody, construction of haulage roads and tunnels, and mined out zones. From seismicity phenomena our focus will be on voids and fractures that occur because of a mining activity. Mining activity leads to the occurrence of rockbursts, which is a sudden release of energy in the rock mass. Even though this research area was studied for decades, there is no reasonable solution on these issues, since rockbursts defy conventional explanation. One of the proposed solutions is a use of microseismic monitoring systems that helps to forecast rockbursts and mitigate their negative impact on mining activity. Because underground mining environment with voids and fractures constantly changes makes this issue more complex. Moreover, there are some examples of successful implementation of seismic monitoring systems and 3D velocity models. Also, voids occur due to backfilling of mined out zones, where strength and composition of a backfill may degrade with time. So, considering those facts, the research includes laboratory models in form of synthetic sample cubes made up of concrete with different curing times and different cement concentrations, allowing to capture data from different samples. The main idea behind this study is to measure seismic wave velocities by using acoustic emission systems (AE). This system allows us to record seismic wave velocities passing through voids, to know wave propagation patterns inside sample cubes. The result of this research compares seismic wave velocity against sample cube dimensions, presence of holes, and concentration of a backfill. Furthermore, this research proposes utilization of artificial neural networks (ANN) as tool that may enhance rockburst mitigation in the future.