How to estimate the modulus of deformation of a block rock masses using discrete element simulations?

The deformation modulus of rock mass is a fundamental parameter in the geomechanics of tunnels, mining, and other geotechnical rock-supported facilities. The mechanical properties of a rock mass, seen as a fractured medium, are determined by the intact rock, the pattern of relative joint-sets, the geometrical arrangement of the joints, and their mechanical properties. Joint sets, acting as planar discontinuities, confer scale and direction-dependent mechanical properties. The critical factor influencing the deformational behavior of a rock mass is the stiffness of its fractures and discontinuities. The present study investigates the anisotropic deformation modulus of blocky rock masses formed by three intersecting joint sets, including two orthogonal sets. This was achieved through discrete element simulations of representative volumes of blocky rock masses. These studies facilitate the estimation of the blocky rock mass deformation modulus in different directions without the need for laboratory and in-situ tests or empirical relationships.

For more information, see the article:

📌 Ahrami O., Javaheri Koupaei H., Ahangari K. Determination of deformation modulus and characterization of anisotropic behavior of blocky rock masses. Mining Science and Technology (Russia). 2024;9(2):116-133. https://doi.org/10.17073/2500-0632-2023-08-143

Subscribe to the journal's Telegram channel:
👉t.iss.one/MinSciTech👈

#inenglish #MST #anisotropy #deformation #modulus #mass #rocks #loading #fracture #stiffness #strength #shear #resistance #stress #displacement #sliding #quartz #modeling #coefficient #index #blocks #deformations #material #surface #structure #boundary #experiment #geomechanics #JRC #UCS #GSI #simulation

How to enhance the efficiency of reverse flotation of iron ore concentrates through electrochemical treatment of reagents?

The most effective methods to achieve high-quality iron ore concentrates is through reverse flotation using cationic amine collectors in an alkaline medium. However, due to the very fine impregnation of magnetite in quartz, the insufficiently complete release of magnetite even with fine grinding, and the proximity of the flotation (surface) behavior of the separated minerals, high-quality concentrates are not always achievable in the flotation process. The research findings confirmed the feasibility of using preliminary diaphragmless electrochemical treatment of reagents Tomamine RA-14 and Lilaflot 811M (esters of monoamine of different composition) for the targeted modification of their properties and for increasing the efficiency of reverse flotation. Consequently, the silica content in the flotation cell product decreased from 1.66–1.7% to 1.51–1.56, with the grade of total iron exceeding 70%.

For more information, see the article:

📌 Rakhimov Kh.K., Chanturiya E.L., Shekhirev D.V. Electrochemical action on the flotation beneficiation of ordinary iron ore concentrate. Mining Science and Technology (Russia). 2024;9(1):21-29. https://doi.org/10.17073/2500-0632-2023-12-196

Subscribe to the journal's Telegram channel:
👉t.iss.one/MinSciTech👈

#Inenglish #MST #reverseflotation #ironore #electrochemicaltreatment #cationiccollectors #amines #alkalinemedium #magnetite #quartz #silica #finegrinding #flotationpulp #aminedispersion #physicaladsorption #diaphragmlesstreatment #TomaminePA14 #Lilaflot811M #totaliron #flotationbehavior #ionicforms #molecularforms

Can we extract gold from old mining waste? New research reveals potential

A new study of tailings from Tanzania's Golden Pride Project proves that even low-grade ores (just 0.72 g/t Au) can become profitable thanks to modern technology! Scientists analyzed 1.4 million tons of old waste deposits — long considered worthless — and found they could now be economically viable to process.

Key findings:
✔️ Average gold content: 0.72 g/t, with 74% of the gold concentrated in the fine –75 µm fraction after grinding.
✔️ Dominant minerals: quartz, muscovite, and kaolinite—typical of gold-quartz ore types.
✔️ Minimal harmful impurities (copper <0.05%, sulfur <0.5%), making extraction easier.

How can it be processed?
🔹 Heap leaching — the most cost-effective method for such ores. Similar deposits (e.g., Russia's Mayskoe) achieve 70–80% gold recovery.
🔹 For finer fractions, carbon-in-pulp (CIP) with grinding and classification works best.

Why does this matter now?
With rising gold prices and advancing tech, yesterday’s waste could become tomorrow’s gold source — boosting profits while reducing environmental impact.

For more information, see the article:

📌 Shirima J., Wikedzi A., Rasskazova A.V. Investigation of old waste dump composition of lean gold-bearing ores from the Golden Pride Project (GPP) mining operation in Nzega district, Tanzania. Mining Science and Technology (Russia). 2024;9(1):5-11. https://doi.org/10.17073/2500-0632-2023-07-130

Subscribe to the journal's Telegram channel:
👉t.iss.one/MinSciTech👈

#Inenglish #MST #Gold #TailingsReprocessing #GoldenPride #HeapLeaching #CarbonInPulp #Mining #Mineralogy #GoldMining #LowGradeOre #Technology #Economics #Tanzania #Research #XRD #XRF #75micron #Kaolinite #Quartz #Muscovite #Sustainability

How to determine the deformation modulus and anisotropy in blocky rock masses?

🔹 In a study published in Mining Science and Technology (Russia), the authors investigated the anisotropic behavior of blocky rock masses. They employed the discrete element method to model and analyze the deformation modulus as a function of loading direction, joint properties, and intact rock characteristics.

🔹 Key Findings:
✔️ The deformation modulus depends on the Joint Roughness Coefficient (JRC) and the Uniaxial Compressive Strength (UCS) of the intact rock.
✔️ The influence of joint roughness on the deformation modulus is three times greater than that of intact rock strength.
✔️ The degree of anisotropy in the deformation modulus ranged from 1.6 ≤ Rₑ ≤ 2.5, with an average value of 1.88.
✔️ During joint sliding failure, the yield strain (0.2–0.4) is independent of the loading angle (θ) and the orientation of the third joint set (α).

🔹 Practical Applications:
The results enable the prediction of rock mass behavior without costly field tests, which is crucial for designing tunnels, boreholes, and other geotechnical structures.

Read the full study in Mining Science and Technology (Russia):

📌 Ahrami O., Javaheri Koupaei H., Ahangari K. Determination of deformation modulus and characterization of anisotropic behavior of blocky rock masses. Mining Science and Technology (Russia). 2024;9(2):116–133. https://doi.org/10.17073/2500-0632-2023-08-143

🔔 Subscribe to our Telegram channel: t.iss.one/MinSciTech

#InEnglish #MST #anisotropy #deformation #modulus #mass #rocks #loading #fracture #stiffness #strength #shear #resistance #stress #displacement #sliding #quartz #modeling #coefficient #index #blocks #deformations #material #surface #structure #boundary #experiment #geomechanics #JRC #UCS #GSI #simulation