The American Journal of Mining Engineering is an open-access, peer-reviewed journal dedicated to publishing high-quality research in the field of mining engineering. It serves as a platform for scholars and professionals to share innovative methodologies, applications, and case studies that advance the understanding and practice of mining engineering.
All articles published in the American Journal of Mining Engineering are licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0). This license allows others to: Share — copy and redistribute the material in any medium or format Adapt — remix, transform, and build upon the material for any purpose, even commercially Under the following terms: Attribution — Appropriate credit must be given to the original author(s), a link to the license must be provided, and any changes made must be indicated.
Advances in Explosives Engineering for Mining Applications
This paper reviews recent advances in explosives engineering for mining, focusing on three interlinked areas: energetic formulations (particularly emulsion explosives), precision initiation systems (electronic and wireless detonators), and blast design & vibration-control methodologies. Advances in emulsion chemistry and sensitization have increased safety, water resistance, and energy density; electronic initiation systems and improved sequencing algorithms have enabled millisecond-level control of stress-wave interactions and improved fragmentation; and enhanced monitoring + numerical optimization reduce environmental impacts (vibration, flyrock) while improving downstream comminution efficiency. The review highlights current best practices, regulatory and safety considerations, and research directions (materials, digital blasting, and environmental forensics).
Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Addressing Water Scarcity in Mining: Solutions and Strategies
Water scarcity poses a significant challenge for the mining industry, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions where the competition for water between industrial, agricultural, and domestic users is intense. This paper explores innovative approaches and technologies that mitigate water use in mining operations while promoting sustainable resource management. It emphasizes the integration of water recycling, dry processing, and digital water monitoring systems as central strategies. By adopting sustainable frameworks and regulatory mechanisms, mining companies can enhance operational resilience, reduce environmental impacts, and align with global sustainability goals. The study provides insights into emerging technologies and policy frameworks that facilitate water conservation and reuse in mining contexts.
The Role of Smart Grids and Microgrids in Mining Operations
The integration of smart grids and microgrids in mining operations has become increasingly vital as the mining industry transitions toward energy efficiency, sustainability, and autonomy. This study explores how smart grids facilitate real-time energy management, load optimization, and renewable energy integration in remote mining areas. Microgrids provide decentralized, reliable, and resilient power systems that ensure operational continuity even in the absence of central grid connectivity. The paper discusses key components such as demand response systems, energy storage technologies, and predictive analytics for optimizing energy usage. It further highlights the role of smart grid-based digital communication networks, artificial intelligence, and automation in achieving sustainable and cost-effective mining operations.
Innovations in Tailings Dam Design and Management
Tailings dams are crucial in the mining industry for the safe disposal of waste materials. However, their design and management are central to environmental and human safety concerns. Innovations in tailings dam design, monitoring systems, and waste management practices have emerged as essential measures to enhance dam stability, reduce environmental impact, and mitigate the risk of catastrophic failures. This paper explores the latest advancements in tailings dam design and management, including the use of advanced materials, structural modifications, automated monitoring systems, and sustainable waste disposal methods. The aim is to provide insights into how these innovations can improve the safety and sustainability of mining operations globally.
Challenges in Resource Management for Sustainable Mining Operations
Sustainable mining practices are essential for balancing economic growth with environmental protection. Resource management in mining operations faces several challenges, including resource depletion, environmental impact, energy consumption, and social responsibility. This article explores the major challenges faced by the mining industry in managing resources efficiently while ensuring long-term sustainability. Key areas such as water management, waste disposal, energy use, and community engagement are discussed, alongside emerging technologies and practices aimed at overcoming these obstacles. The research highlights the importance of adopting integrated resource management systems and the role of innovation in achieving sustainability goals in the mining sector.
Automation in Underground Mining: Safety and Efficiency Benefits
Underground mining operations are inherently hazardous, with risks such as rock falls, equipment malfunctions, and exposure to harmful gases. The adoption of automation in these environments is transforming mining practices, significantly improving safety and operational efficiency. Automated systems, including autonomous vehicles, robotic drilling, and real-time monitoring technologies, offer substantial improvements in minimizing human exposure to dangerous conditions while optimizing resource extraction. This paper explores the role of automation in underground mining, analyzing its impact on safety, productivity, and environmental sustainability. The integration of automated systems in mining operations not only enhances efficiency but also ensures safer working conditions for miners.
Advances in Gold Recovery Techniques: Innovations and Environmental Implications
Gold recovery techniques have evolved significantly over the years, driven by the growing demand for efficient and environmentally responsible extraction methods. Traditional gold mining methods, including cyanide leaching and mercury amalgamation, have been increasingly scrutinized for their detrimental environmental impacts. This paper explores the latest innovations in gold recovery technologies, with a focus on bioleaching, gravity separation, and the use of greener chemical agents. It also discusses the environmental implications of these techniques, providing insights into the balance between resource extraction and sustainability. The paper aims to highlight how new technologies can contribute to more sustainable mining practices while ensuring high recovery rates and reducing environmental harm.
Sustainability in Mining: A Holistic Approach to Operational and Environmental Goals
Sustainability in mining has become a critical factor for ensuring long-term viability of operations while minimizing environmental impact. This article explores the integration of operational efficiency with environmental stewardship in the mining sector. By emphasizing resource conservation, waste reduction, energy management, and community engagement, mining operations can achieve sustainability goals without compromising economic performance. The study presents a framework for holistic sustainability that considers both operational and environmental aspects. Key drivers, challenges, and emerging technologies for sustainable mining practices are discussed. A set of best practices for enhancing sustainability is proposed, offering a balanced approach to economic, social, and environmental objectives.
Exploring the Potential of 3D Printing in Mining Equipment Manufacturing
The rapid advancements in additive manufacturing, particularly 3D printing, have opened new frontiers in the mining industry, especially in equipment manufacturing. 3D printing has the potential to revolutionize the way mining equipment is designed, manufactured, and repaired, offering benefits such as reduced production time, cost-efficiency, and enhanced customizability. This paper explores the integration of 3D printing technology into mining equipment manufacturing, highlighting its applications in the design of components, prototype development, spare part production, and maintenance. The paper also addresses challenges, including material limitations and technical complexities, while proposing solutions to optimize the use of 3D printing in the mining sector. The future of this technology in mining is promising, with significant potential for improving efficiency, reducing waste, and enhancing safety in mining operations.
Technological Innovations in Mining Waste Treatment and Disposal
The mining industry has a significant environmental impact, especially regarding the disposal and treatment of mining waste. As mining operations expand, the accumulation of waste by-products, including tailings, slag, and effluents, poses significant environmental and health risks. Recent technological innovations in mining waste treatment and disposal have aimed to mitigate these impacts, focusing on enhancing the efficiency of waste management practices while reducing harmful effects on the surrounding ecosystems. This article explores the latest advancements in mining waste treatment technologies, such as bioremediation, tailings recycling, and green chemistry applications. Additionally, it examines the role of sustainable practices in improving waste disposal strategies, offering a comprehensive overview of current methods and future prospects.
Remote Mining Operations: Assessing the Role of Artificial Intelligence
The application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in remote mining operations is transforming the traditional mining industry by enhancing efficiency, safety, and sustainability. As mining sites become increasingly inaccessible and geographically dispersed, AI provides solutions for data-driven decision-making, predictive maintenance, resource optimization, and risk management. This article assesses the role of AI in optimizing remote mining operations, focusing on automation, data analytics, and real-time monitoring. It explores the current advancements in AI technologies and how they contribute to cost reduction, environmental sustainability, and worker safety in remote mining environments. This review also discusses challenges, future prospects, and potential regulatory frameworks necessary to harness the full potential of AI in remote mining.
Exploring Alternative Methods of Extracting Lithium for Electric Vehicles
Lithium has become a critical element for the production of batteries used in electric vehicles (EVs). As demand for EVs increases, so does the need for lithium, which is traditionally extracted through mining processes that are resource-intensive and environmentally harmful. This paper explores alternative methods of lithium extraction, including direct lithium extraction (DLE) from brines, lithium from clay minerals, and recycling from used batteries. These alternatives offer the potential to reduce environmental impacts, increase extraction efficiency, and ensure a sustainable supply of lithium. The paper provides an overview of these methods, their technological feasibility, economic considerations, and environmental impacts, aiming to identify the most promising alternatives for the future of lithium production.
Advancements in Mining Safety through Technology Integration
The mining industry has witnessed significant advancements in safety technologies, driven by the integration of innovative tools such as automation, wearable devices, real-time monitoring, and data analytics. This paper discusses the pivotal role that these technologies play in enhancing the safety of mining operations. By exploring the current technological landscape and its impact on hazard detection, operational efficiency, and risk management, we aim to highlight the transformative potential of these innovations. Furthermore, this study provides an overview of the challenges faced by the industry in adopting new technologies and outlines future prospects for further improvements in mining safety. The integration of machine learning, Internet of Things (IoT), and advanced wearable devices is presented as a key enabler for reducing accidents, improving decision-making processes, and fostering safer work environments in the mining sector.
Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Resilience in Mining: Preparing for Environmental and Economic Shocks
The mining industry faces numerous challenges stemming from both environmental and economic shocks, which threaten the sustainability and profitability of mining operations. Environmental concerns, including climate change and resource depletion, coupled with global economic shifts, present significant risks. This paper aims to explore the concept of resilience within the mining industry and its importance in mitigating the effects of these shocks. Through case studies and an analysis of resilience strategies, this study outlines ways the mining sector can prepare for and adapt to these challenges. By implementing robust risk management frameworks and adopting new technologies, mining operations can enhance their resilience, ensuring long-term sustainability.
The Role of Data Analytics in Modern Mine Site Management
Data analytics plays a transformative role in modern mine site management by enhancing decision-making processes, optimizing operations, and increasing overall efficiency. With the integration of predictive maintenance, real-time monitoring systems, and big data analytics, mining companies can ensure smoother operations, reduce costs, and improve safety standards. This paper explores the applications of data analytics in the mining industry, focusing on its impact on operational optimization, safety improvements, and long-term sustainability. By leveraging machine learning algorithms and data-driven insights, mining operations can evolve into more efficient, safe, and environmentally sustainable enterprises.
Intelligent Automation in Mining: Enhancing Operational Efficiency
Intelligent automation in mining has become a cornerstone for enhancing operational efficiency and safety in mining operations. This technological revolution integrates automated systems, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning to improve productivity, reduce costs, and mitigate human-related risks. The mining industry, which is traditionally labor-intensive, is experiencing a transformation through the adoption of automated machinery, robotic systems, and advanced data analytics. This paper examines the advancements in intelligent automation in mining, focusing on the benefits of these technologies in streamlining processes, ensuring better resource utilization, and minimizing environmental impact. The paper also discusses the challenges involved in implementing these technologies and offers insights into future trends in mining automation.
Advances in Ore Processing: Reducing Environmental Footprints
The mining industry has long been criticized for its significant environmental impact, primarily through pollution and resource depletion. This article explores the latest advancements in ore processing technologies aimed at minimizing these environmental footprints. Innovations such as bioleaching, hydrometallurgical processes, and waste-to-value approaches have shown promising results in reducing energy consumption, water usage, and harmful emissions. Furthermore, the integration of green chemistry principles in ore processing is enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of mining practices. This paper examines the state-of-the-art methods being implemented and their potential for reshaping the future of ore processing.
Geotechnical Innovations for Slope Stability in Mining Operations
Slope stability is a critical factor in ensuring the safety and efficiency of mining operations. Recent advancements in geotechnical engineering have led to innovative solutions for assessing and managing slope stability, helping to mitigate the risks associated with slope failures and landslides. This article explores modern geotechnical innovations that enhance slope stability in mining environments, emphasizing the application of advanced monitoring systems, innovative soil stabilization techniques, and computational modeling. The paper also discusses the challenges faced by mining engineers in maintaining slope integrity and provides case studies showcasing the effectiveness of these innovations in large-scale mining operations.
Understanding the Socio-Economic Impact of Mining on Indigenous Communities
Mining activities, while contributing significantly to national economies, have profound socio-economic impacts on indigenous communities, especially in developing regions. These communities often bear the brunt of environmental degradation, loss of cultural heritage, and displacement, while struggling with limited access to the benefits of mining revenues. This paper explores the socio-economic effects of mining on indigenous populations, focusing on the changes in employment, income distribution, health, and social structures. It also examines the relationship between the mining industry and indigenous rights, land ownership issues, and the challenges of achieving sustainable development in mining areas. By analyzing case studies and conducting qualitative research, this paper aims to highlight the complex dynamics between mining operations and indigenous communities.
Implementing Lean Management Techniques in Mining Operations
In the mining industry, operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness are paramount to ensuring long-term sustainability. Lean management techniques, initially developed in manufacturing, have proven to be highly effective in eliminating waste, improving productivity, and optimizing resources. This article explores the integration of lean management principles within mining operations, emphasizing key areas such as process improvement, resource management, and waste reduction. The study reviews successful lean implementations in various mining contexts and provides insights on the challenges and benefits experienced by mining companies. With a focus on practical applications, the article aims to offer recommendations for effective lean management adoption within mining environments.
Mine Site Environmental Monitoring: Best Practices and Technologies
Environmental monitoring at mining sites is essential for assessing and mitigating the environmental impacts of mining operations. These impacts include air and water pollution, land degradation, and the loss of biodiversity. Effective monitoring practices, supported by advanced technologies, are crucial for promoting sustainable mining practices. This article explores the best practices and emerging technologies in mine site environmental monitoring, providing an overview of essential monitoring techniques and tools. Additionally, it examines how these practices can be integrated into mining operations to ensure regulatory compliance and minimize ecological damage.
Evaluating the Role of Mining in Urban Mining and Resource Recovery
Urban mining and resource recovery have become pivotal in the context of sustainable development and circular economies. The practice of extracting valuable metals and minerals from urban waste, including e-waste, offers a promising alternative to traditional mining. This article examines the role of mining in urban mining and resource recovery, analyzing its impact on the environment, economy, and society. By addressing the challenges and opportunities in urban mining, the paper discusses the integration of these practices into urban waste management systems. Additionally, it explores technological advancements in recycling and recovery methods, highlighting successful case studies and potential for scaling up urban mining efforts.
The Role of Mining Engineering in Developing Smart Cities
Mining engineering plays a pivotal role in the development of smart cities, as it offers innovative solutions for resource management, sustainability, and environmental impact reduction. With increasing urbanization, the demand for advanced materials, energy-efficient infrastructure, and effective waste management has escalated. Mining engineers contribute to the development of smart cities by designing sustainable systems that integrate mining technology with urban planning. This paper explores how mining engineering impacts various aspects of smart city development, focusing on resource extraction, sustainable practices, waste management, and energy solutions.
Enhancing Mine Safety with Wearable Technology and Sensors
The mining industry is inherently hazardous, with workers exposed to various risks, including physical, chemical, and environmental dangers. Wearable technology and sensors have emerged as promising solutions for improving safety and health monitoring in mining environments. These devices can continuously track vital signs, detect environmental hazards, and provide real-time alerts to mitigate risks. This paper explores the integration of wearable technology and sensors into mining operations, focusing on their application in enhancing worker safety. We discuss the potential benefits, challenges, and future developments in this field, highlighting case studies and the role of emerging technologies in transforming safety standards.
Renewable Energy Solutions for Remote Mining Operations
The mining industry, particularly in remote areas, faces challenges in energy supply due to its reliance on conventional power sources, such as diesel generators. Renewable energy solutions offer sustainable and cost-effective alternatives for powering mining operations. This article explores the role of renewable energy technologies in supporting remote mining operations, focusing on solar, wind, and hybrid systems. The integration of these technologies enhances energy security, reduces operational costs, and promotes environmental sustainability. The article further examines the technical, economic, and environmental considerations in adopting renewable energy solutions in the mining sector.
Sustainable Practices in Gold Mining: Current Challenges and Innovations
Gold mining, a significant contributor to the global economy, faces increasing scrutiny due to its environmental and social impacts. This paper examines the current challenges in achieving sustainability within the gold mining sector and explores innovative practices aimed at mitigating these issues. Key challenges include environmental degradation, health risks associated with hazardous chemicals, and socio-economic disparities in mining communities. Innovations such as the adoption of cleaner extraction technologies, implementation of regulatory frameworks, and community engagement strategies are discussed. The paper concludes by emphasizing the need for a holistic approach that integrates environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and economic viability to promote sustainable gold mining practices.
The Role of Bioengineering in Sustainable Mining Practices
Mining operations have long been associated with environmental degradation, resource depletion, and health hazards. As global awareness of sustainable practices grows, bioengineering is emerging as a crucial field to address these challenges. This article explores the potential role of bioengineering in promoting sustainable mining practices, focusing on bioremediation, waste management, and ecological restoration. By integrating bioengineering solutions, the mining industry can minimize environmental impact, enhance resource efficiency, and contribute to the rehabilitation of mined areas. The paper discusses key bioengineering techniques such as phytoremediation, microbial leaching, and biostimulation, highlighting their application in modern mining operations. Through innovative approaches, bioengineering can pave the way for a more sustainable mining future, ensuring that the environmental footprint of mining activities is significantly reduced.
Mitigating the Environmental Impact of Mining through Innovative Technologies
Mining has long been an essential industry contributing to global economic growth. However, its environmental impact has become increasingly concerning, with deforestation, habitat destruction, soil degradation, and water pollution as some of the adverse effects. This article explores innovative technologies aimed at reducing the environmental footprint of mining operations. These technologies, including water recovery systems, waste management improvements, and automation, promise to revolutionize the mining sector by enhancing sustainability. By adopting cutting-edge methods, the mining industry can significantly reduce its environmental burden, improve resource efficiency, and pave the way for a more sustainable future.
Enhancing the Efficiency of Tailings Management in Mining Operations
Tailings management presents a critical environmental and operational challenge in modern mining. Inefficient handling can result in severe ecological damage, safety hazards, and regulatory non-compliance. This paper explores advanced strategies and technologies for enhancing the efficiency of tailings management systems, emphasizing sustainable practices, real-time monitoring, and novel containment structures. It discusses geotechnical, hydrological, and chemical considerations in tailings storage facility (TSF) design, evaluates dry stacking and paste backfilling alternatives, and proposes digital and automation-based solutions for monitoring and decision-making. Emphasis is also placed on lifecycle assessment and circular economy approaches to minimize long-term environmental risks.
Underground Mine Design: Innovations and Best Practices
The evolving challenges of resource extraction in deeper geological formations necessitate innovation in underground mine design. From optimizing excavation geometries to incorporating real-time monitoring and autonomous technologies, modern practices aim to enhance safety, economic viability, and environmental sustainability. This article reviews the latest innovations and best practices in underground mine design, including mechanized support systems, 3D geotechnical modeling, ventilation optimization, and data-driven decision-making. A comprehensive approach integrating cutting-edge software, smart sensors, and predictive analytics is emphasized to address increasing geological complexity and regulatory demands. Case examples from global underground operations support the practical implementation of these methodologies.