Concept
Open-pit mining is a surface mining technique that involves extracting minerals or rocks from an open pit or borrow. This method is frequently used for materials like gold, copper, and iron, and is chosen when the resources are closer to the earth's surface, making it more economical and efficient than subsurface mining techniques.
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Concept
Surface mining is a method of extracting minerals and coal from the earth by removing the overlying soil and rock, which is efficient for accessing deposits near the surface. This technique is favored for its cost-effectiveness and ability to recover a high proportion of the resource, though it often leads to significant environmental impacts such as habitat destruction and soil erosion.
Concept
Ore extraction is the process of removing valuable minerals or metals from the earth's crust, significantly impacting environmental landscapes and economies worldwide. It involves various methodologies depending on the type and location of the ore, with crucial considerations for sustainability and technological advancements.
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a systematic process that evaluates the potential environmental effects of a proposed project before decisions are made. It aims to prevent or mitigate negative impacts on the environment and ensure sustainable development by integrating environmental considerations into project planning and decision-making.
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Mining safety involves the implementation of practices, technologies, and regulations to prevent accidents, reduce health hazards, and protect the environment in mining operations. It requires continuous monitoring and improvement to address emerging risks and ensure the well-being of workers and surrounding communities.
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Geotechnical engineering is a branch of civil engineering that focuses on the behavior of earth materials and their interaction with structures. It involves the analysis, design, and construction of foundations, slopes, retaining structures, and other systems that are made of or supported by soil or rock.
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Overburden removal involves extracting the layer of soil and rock covering a mineral deposit, enabling access to valuable resources beneath. It is a crucial step in surface mining operations which can have significant environmental impacts and requires careful planning and management to minimize ecological disturbances.
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Drilling and blasting is a critical process in mining and civil engineering that involves using controlled explosives to break rock for excavation. The technique requires precise planning and safety measures to efficiently fragment rock while minimizing environmental impact and ensuring worker safety.
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Mine rehabilitation is the process of restoring the ecological integrity and landscape of a mining site post-extraction, ensuring it supports biodiversity and sustainable land use. This involves a combination of technical, environmental, and social strategies to mitigate the impacts of mining activities and promote ecosystem recovery.
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Cost-benefit analysis is a systematic approach to evaluating the economic pros and cons of different choices, aiming to determine the best course of action by comparing the total expected costs against the total expected benefits. It is widely used in public policy, business decision-making, and project management to ensure resources are allocated efficiently and effectively.
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Mineral processing is the practice of extracting valuable minerals from raw ores through various physical and chemical processes. It aims to maximize the recovery of valuable minerals while minimizing waste and environmental impact, ensuring efficient and sustainable resource utilization.
Concept
Surface mining methods involve the extraction of minerals or resources near the Earth's surface, using techniques that allow for efficient material recovery and reduced environmental impact compared to underground mining. These methods include strip mining, open-pit mining, and mountaintop removal, each chosen based on the geology of the mining site and targeted mineral deposits.
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