03. Bachelor's Thesis

03. Bachelor's Thesis

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EVALUATION AND OPTIMIZATION OF THE GELAMA MERAH OFFSHORE FIELD IN MALAYSIA
(Nazarbayev University School of Mining and Geosciences, 2024) Zhomart, Aruzhan; Bekkuzhina, Taira; Zhailaubayeva, Alina; Ashekeyev, Alisher; Khramova, Tatyana
The objective of this study is to conduct a field development plan on the offshore gas and oil producing field in Malaysia - Gelama Merah. The field is owned by PETRONAS (Petrolam Nasional Berhard) and operated by both PETRONAS Carigali Sdn Bhd and the Japan Drilling company [5]. Two exploration wells were drilled, namely: Gelama Merah 1 (GM -1), and Gelama Merah ST 1 (GMST-1). The field was divided into nine units as follows: U3.2, U4.0, U5.0, U6.0, U7.0, U8.0, U9.0, U9.1, and U9.2. The work is focused on several crucial parts including but not limited to geological interpretation, petrophysical evaluation, static and dynamic modeling, reservoir engineering, well completion and production analysis, and economics. These sections were thoroughly analyzed and interconnected within each other, in order to establish the important correlations required to successfully complete the field development plan of Gelama Merah.
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FIELD DEVELOPMENT PLAN (FDP) OF THE JETISTIK OFFSHORE OIL AND GAS FIELD IN CASPIAN REGION, KAZAKHSTAN
(Nazarbayev University School of Mining and Geosciences, 2024) Kakharov, Islam; Kudaibergenov, Ali; Uatkhan, Nurgissa; Aitkazy, Shynggys; Kopzhassarov, Zhanbolat
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FIELD DEVELOPMENT PLAN: STRATEGIC OPTIMIZATION OF THE OFFSHORE SNOHVIT GAS AND CONDENSATE FIELD
(Nazarbayev University School of Mining amd Geosciences, 2024-03) Sagandykova, Dilyara; Ostrizhnaya, Anastassiya; Kaldybayev, Assain; Melis, Yerzhan; Rustem, Bakdaulet
This report documents Capstone Project which encapsulates our intensive training focused on practical applications across various domains including Geology, Petrophysics, Static Modelling, Basic Reservoir Engineering, Drilling Engineering, Production Engineering, Simulation and Dynamic Model Development, Economics, and HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment). Using industry-standard simulation programs like Petrel, Techlog, PIPESIM, WinProp, and CMG, our study aimed to minimize emissions by optimizing gas production and suggesting practical CO2 storage methods. We have examined every aspect of reservoir development by utilizing careful evaluation and simulation, assuring a thorough comprehension of the complexities involved.
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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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TECTONIC ANALYSIS OF AKTOBE AND ZHANKORGAN VALLEYS OF THE BOLSHOI KARATAU CARBONATE PLATFORM
(Nazarbayev University School of Mining and Geosciences, 2024-04-26) Igizgali, Alisher
Bolshoi Karatau Mountains in the south of Kazakhstan expose a Devonian-Carboniferous carbonate platform exposing several formations which exhibit some strong patterns of multiphase heavy deformations. Aim of this study is to analyse valley-scale details of Aktobe and Zhankorgan sections of the Bolshoi Karatau mountains, including folds, veins, and formations and how they connect between the valleys. The results are expected to shed light on the tectonic overprints on the carbonate platform and the overall deformation features on the region. So far 7 formations have been mapped all dipping southwest as part of the northern limb of a big synclinal structure while a smaller portion of the formations comprise the southern limb. Cross-sections reveal substantial folding events in the middle of the valley that are positioned at ad angle in relation to the strike-slip fault proposed by Alexeiv et al. (2009). Findings in this paper reveal a higher lateral connection between formations and structures and hence propose an emphasized study of the same formations of the same northwestern limb of the big syncline across the two valleys. Comparatively, the connection between two limbs of the big syncline at the Aktobe valley is poorly understood due to strike-slip faulting that cuts across the big syncline
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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 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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INVESTIGATION OF A CRYSTALLOGRAPHIC PREFERRED ORIENTATION BY FIBRE GROWTH IN A FIBROUS QUARTZ VEIN FROM THE ORDOVICIAN OF BURKHAT PASS, KATON KARAGAI, ALTAI MOUNTAINS.
(Nazarbayev University School of Mining and Geosciences, 2024-04-26) Spanov, Alikhan
Forming such geological structures as quartz fibre veins is a well-known aspect of crystallographic preferred orientation investigation. Quartz is a crucial silica polymorph and the purest mineral in the Earth's crust due to its defective structure, making it easier to follow the deformation pattern of minerals during crystallization under different conditions (Gotze et al. 2021). Quartz crystals are located by crystallographers in the trapezohedral class of the trigonal system. It also possesses three-fold symmetry about a vertical axis, however, it has no plane of symmetry or centre of symmetry. The location of atoms and electrons in quartz was described by (Huggins, 1922). Every silicon atom is encircled by four pairs of electrons at tetrahedron corners (Figure 1). They operate like bonds that connect them to four equally distant oxygen atoms. In addition, four tetrahedrally oriented electron pairs surround every oxygen atom. Two of these pairs act as bonds that connect the oxygen with silicon atoms. Therefore, the crystal is not composed of Si02 units. However, it is a single molecule, for every bond around each silicon and oxygen atom, there is the same type of bond that connects the atoms in a molecule.
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SAMPLING, MODELING AND ANALYSIS OF DIESEL PARTICULATE MATTER DISTRIBUTION IN UNDERGROUND POLYMETALLIC MINES
(Nazarbayev University School of Mining and Geosciences, 2024-04-19) Kurmangazy, Gulim
This thesis presents a comprehensive study on the modeling and analysis of Diesel Particulate Matter (DPM) distribution in underground polymetallic mines, integrating experimental sampling with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to enhance the accuracy of DPM dispersion models. Conducted at the Dolinnyy Mine, this research aimed to refine our understanding of the spatial and temporal distribution of particulate matter and assess its impacts on miners' health. The methodology included detailed real-time experimental sampling of air parameters such as PM1 concentrations, airflow velocity, and temperature. This data was analyzed to identify patterns and correlations, forming the basis for subsequent CFD simulations performed using ANSYS FLUENT. These simulations attempted to model the complex environmental dynamics observed within the mine. Additionally, a comprehensive risk analysis using ‘Palisade@Risk’ software assessed the variability and predictability of DPM concentrations and airflow velocity, further supporting the CFD findings. Despite successfully predicting airflow velocities close to the actual measurements (approximately 1.3 m/s), the CFD model significantly underestimated DPM concentrations. The simulated values averaged around 465 μg/m3, which was about four times lower than the observed values of approximately 1560 μg/m3. This substantial discrepancy underscores the need for further refinement of the CFD models to enhance their predictive accuracy. The findings indicate a critical need for improving both sampling strategies and modeling techniques to bolster the accuracy and reliability of DPM assessments in underground mining environments. By addressing these issues, the research supports the development of more effective ventilation and monitoring systems, ultimately aiming to improve worker safety by reducing health risks associated with prolonged exposure to particulate matter. This thesis advocates for continued advancements in monitoring, risk analysis, and modeling approaches as crucial steps towards ensuring safer mining operations.
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MICROSTRUCTURAL DESCRIPTION OF FIBROUS GYPSUM VEINS FROM SOUTH OF KORGALZHYN DISTRICT, AKMOLA REGION
(Nazarbayev University School of Mining and Geosciences, 2024-04-26) Gaisina, Aisary
Samples from Korgalzhyn district are probably fibrous gypsum veins that recrystallised completely into selenite. As a result of recrystallization, the gypsum veins that were originally vertical fibers became into horizontally interlocked crystal plates. What looked like median planes appear actually to be vein-parallel fractures developed parallel to (010), the most easy fracture direction in gypsum. The plane (010) lies parallel to the vein walls. The preferred crystallographic orientation of gypsum crystal is that axes is perpendicular to the vein, and plane is parallel to vein walls.
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AN ENDEMIC BALEEN WHALE FROM THE LATE MIDDLE MIOCENE OF ANCIENT EASTERN PARATETHYS SEA, KARAGIYE.
(Nazarbayev University School of Mining and Geosciences, 2024-04-26) Kadirbek, Dias
The easternmost part of the Cenozoic Eurasian megalake known as the Eastern Paratethys was in what is known today as Kazakhstan. It is one of the largest basins of the Parathetys and its sediments are well exposed in the Karagiye Depression south east of Aktau. In this depression, the late Middle Miocene to early Late Miocene (13.1-10.6 Ma) is very well represented, containing remnants of a unique and exceptionally rich endemic marine fauna. This fauna includes whales, dolphins, seals, sharks, and fishes from the Eastern Paratethys. Here, recently discovered new remains of whales from the Karagiye Depression have been studied. They have been identified as Otradnocetus virodovi. The remains include two cranial bones (tip of the mandible and posterior part of the rostrum), two vertebrae (thoracic and cervical vertebrae), four forelimb bones (two scapula parts, humerus and radius), two rib fragments and a hyoid bone. Stratigraphic ages of the studied bones (based on bio- and magnetostratigraphic studies) range from 13.1-13.0 Ma to 12.4-12.0 Ma. The bone measurement follows Mchedlidze (1984), Gol'din et al. (2014), Gol'din (2018), and references therein. Based on the anatomic and osteological peculiarities of the listed bones, it was possible to show that they belong to the species Otradnocetus virodovi, superfamily Cetotherioidea. The forelimb bones showed high diagnostic features of Otradnocetus virodovi, the vertebral bones showed high similarity with previously described specimens, the cranial and rib bones matched outlines of the Otradnocetus virodovi. Otradnocetus virodovi was originally described by Mchedlidze in 1984 from the Middle Miocene of North Caucasus. The vertebrate finds from the Karagiye Depression broadened the paleobiogeographic distribution of many Miocene Paratethyan marine species from Eastern and/or Central Paratethys. Otradnocetus is one of the earliest cetotheres findings. Its fossil record from Karagiye is the third find from Paratethys showing that this megalake was the region where this dwarf baleen whales evolved before their spreading to the global ocean.
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GEOLOGICAL EXCURSION THROUGH THE ATRIUM OF NAZARBAYEV UNIVERSITY
(Nazarbayev University School of Mining and Geosciences, 2024-04-26) Ilyubayev, Dastan
The study of natural dimension stones used during the construction of Nazarbayev University is carried out to prepare an excursion guide for interested audiences, particularly for students and professors of the Geology Department, NU. This study primarily focuses on the textural and mineralogical characteristics of different rocks. The mineralogical and textural findings are linked to their origin and subsequent evolution and/or modification of these rocks. This excursion guide consists of 10 points including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks with diverse compositions, textures, and origins. Sandstone, Diorite, Quartzite, Migmatite, Serpentinite, Labradorite, K-feldspar granite, Limestone, and Tonalite used as dimension stones in various parts of NU buildings represent these spots. Finally, the findings are interpreted based on evidence that the particular rock shows; from literature peer-review and interviews with experts who built Nazarbayev University. An attempt has been made to identify the deposits from which the stones were mined.
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THE PENEPLAIN IN THE KARATAU MOUNTAINS IN SOUTHERN KAZAKHSTAN: ITS POSSIBLE AGE AND AGE OF TILTING
(Nazarbayev University School of Mining and Geosciences, 2024-04-26) Zhenisbekova, Leila
This thesis proposal centers on the Karatau mountain range in southern Kazakhstan, characterized by its young Alpine features and where ancient Paleozoic rocks with a well-documented Hercynian deformation history are exposed. Hercynian deformation history is extensively studied by Abdulin et al. (1986a), Allen et al. (2001), and Alexeyev et al. (2009, 2017). Despite this attention, the Alpine deformation history of the region remains relatively understudied. The presence of a peneplain on top of the significant parts of the Karatau mountains, offers a unique opportunity for exploration. This peneplain shows a distinct southwest tilt and is intersected by the Main Karatau Fault in the northeast. Its presence is a prospect for uncovering insights into the local Alpine deformation history, understanding Earth's geological history, past geomorphological processes and their implications for resource exploration. This thesis is aimed to create a detailed structural contour map of the peneplain with the help of topographic maps at scales 1:25000, 1:100000, and 1:200000. The study also includes the generation of cross-sections to analyze the structural characteristics of the peneplain. Additionally, the thesis conducts a comprehensive review of the Alpine deformation history of the Karatau range, discussion on the age and composition of the peneplain, its sedimentary cover and the potential effects of Alpine deformation on these sediments. For further studies recent seismic activity is examined too.
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OUTCROP SPECTRAL GAMMA-RAY LOGGING OF DISTAL SLOPE CARBONATE DEPOSITS: DECONVOLUTION OF DETRITAL VS INSITU ORIGIN WITH IMPLICATIONS TO SUBSURFACE INTERPRETATION
(Nazarbayev University School of Mining and Geosciences, 2024-04-18) Umralin, Amir
Carboniferous carbonate platform and slope deposits outcropping in the Bolshoi Karatau, Kazakhstan have been used for decades as analogs for coeval giant oil and gas fields in the Pricaspian Basin, but their characterization by gamma-ray spectroscopy is lacking. This study aims to document the advantages of integrating spectral gamma-ray data with measured stratigraphic sections. An RS-230 gamma-ray spectrometer (assay 120 seconds) was used for high-resolution (0.4-0.5 m apart) measurements of potassium (K), uranium (U) and thorium (Th) content in carbonate slope deposits exposed in sections at Aktobe (103 m) and Akuiuk (25 m). Also, some specific areas were measured in Zhankurgan section. Below-detection-limit measurements (5 ppm for U and Th, and 1% for K) were removed from the results. Results show: (i) Predominance of CGR (computed gamma-ray; Th+K) in the lower part of the section due to the increased potassium and SGR (standard gamma-ray; U+Th+K) in the upper part, primarily due to increased uranium content in Aktobe section, respectively. (ii) Some fine- grained facies are characterized by increased potassium content, while others with increased uranium content. (iii) Isolated thorium spikes. (iv) Lack of correlation between upward- increasing thorium and potassium trend-cycle (up to 5 m thick) with facies observations (v) Increased thorium and potassium were determined in the clay facies in Zhankurgan section. Qualitative comparisons of gamma-ray data with facies/microfacies coupled with quantitative investigation of various uranium-thorium-potassium ratios suggest that: (1) Uranium readings can be increased due to the organic-rich facies, apatites from conodonts, carbonate fluorapatites within fractures and/or just carbonates that contain some uranium. (2) Potassium can be more abundant due to the clay rich facies or possbiel presence of glauconites. (3) Thorium spikes could be caused by apatite minerals or other heavy minerals that likely derived from volcanic ash-falls. It was identified that the most radioactive facies are wackestones and wacke- packstones. Interpretation of upward-increasing gamma-ray trends remains challenging. The results from Aktobe and Akuyuk sections were compared and some correlations were done with the subsurface data from the Tengiz field. In general, there is some similarities with the data from the Tengiz. These data and observations can be utilized to better interpret and understand subsurface log data in the Tengiz field.
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SOIL INFILTRATION IN ASTANA CITY AS A PART OF GERMAN-KAZAKH RESEARCH PROJECT “URBAN WATER MANAGEMENT - GERMAN EXPERTISE FOR KAZAKH CITIES (TERESA)”.
(Nazarbayev University School of Mining and Geosciences, 2024-04-26) Raiymkulov, Ilyas
In the given work, the soil infiltration rate of Astana city (Yesil River Basin) was studied to see the suitability of the city to apply sustainable urban drainage system in the studied area. During the work, the formation of groundwater systems was examined. Methodology of the measurements were provided using different tests. Soil texture was indicated as Silty clay.
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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.
Open Access
INVESTIGATION INTO THE APPROPRIATENESS OF ROOM-AND-PILLAR MINING SYSTEM WITH PILLAR RECOVERY AT THE ZHOMART MINE
(Nazarbayev University School of Mining and Geosciences, 2024-04-19) Gabdullin, Adil
This thesis investigates the appropriateness of the room-and-pillar mining system, focusing on pillar recovery at Zhomart Mine, a complex orebody in Kazakhstan's Karaganda region. Given the mine's unique geological characteristics, this study evaluates whether traditional room-and-pillar mining remains suitable amid concerns over subsidence and mine stability. Utilizing the University of British Columbia (UBC) Mining Method Selection Wizard and Rocscience's RS3 for numerical modeling, this research assesses alternative mining methods, particularly Cut & Fill and Sublevel Stoping, against the current room-and-pillar approach. The findings indicate that the room-and-pillar method, while traditionally favored for its simplicity and cost-effectiveness, ranks lower in suitability due to the mine's geotechnical challenges. Simulations predict significant subsidence and compromise structural integrity following pillar recovery, supporting a transition to more adaptive mining strategies. The thesis advocates for Cut & Fill and Sublevel Stoping, which provide greater control over ground subsidence and enhance operational safety and environmental sustainability. This comprehensive study not only underscores the need for a systematic reassessment of mining strategies in light of evolving geological insights but also contributes to the broader discourse on sustainable mining practices. The thesis concludes with recommendations for "Kazakhmys" to undertake an economic evaluation, considering the long-term benefits of adopting more suitable mining methods that align with the mine's operational and environmental goals.
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.
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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.
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THREE-DIMENSIONAL SLOPE STABILITY ANALYSIS OF THE BOZSHAKOL MINE AT STAGE 6 USING FINITE ELEMENT METHOD
(Nazarbayev University School of Mining and Geosciences, 2024-04-19) Duisenbek, Ruslan
This project focuses on conducting a three-dimensional slope stability analysis of the Bozshakol Mine, located in North Kazakhstan. The mine is known for its copper porphyry deposit, with geological formations consisting of tholeiitic basalt and volcanogenic sedimentary rock from the Middle Cambrian Bozshakol Magmatic Arc. Specifically, the analysis targets phase 6, which represents the final operational phase of the mine. Apart from the three-dimensional analysis, two-dimensional assessments were performed on two critical sections of the mine. Additionally, a sensitivity analysis was conducted to examine how reducing the Geological Strength Index (GSI) values of the key geological units might affect the displacement of the rock mass. The slope stability analysis was conducted using RS2 and RS3 software, both utilizing the finite element method. The eastern wall of the Central Pit stood out as the most vulnerable section, displaying a total displacement of 18 cm initially, which increased to 31 cm when the Geological Strength Index (GSI) was reduced by 15 percent. This instability was attributed to the convex shape of the eastern wall. Notably, the two-dimensional analysis identified nearly the same critical zones as the three-dimensional slope stability analysis. However, the 2D analysis appears to take a more conservative approach, indicating a relatively safer assessment.