Mining and Processing
The Lowell Program in Economic Geology was endowed by a gift from J. David Lowell to the University of Arizona.
Examples of existing courses that would fall under the Mining and Processing portion of the curriculum:
Theory and application of geostatistics in solving various estimation/prediction problems frequently encountered in reserve estimation, in geotechnical and/or hydrogeologic parameter estimation, and in environmental regulations.
- Grade and tonnage Considerations
- Geometric methods (rectangular, polygonal, cross-sectional blocks, etc.)
- Regionalized variables (semivariograms, ordinary, block, universal, and indicator krigging; cokrigging)
Mechanical behavior of rock and rock masses; response to load changes: deformations, failure, discontinuity slip; in situ stress state; rock testing; geomechanical classifications; engineering applications: slopes, pillars, tunnels, dam foundations; reinforcement design.
Physical and chemical unit operations used to separate and recover the economic minerals and metals from their ores. Modern scientific and engineering techniques and economic aspects. Includes field trips to major mining operations in the Tucson area.
- Comminution
- Sizing and classification
- Separation (concentration)
- Hydrometallurgy
- Pyrometallurgy
- Refining
- Tailings Disposal
Computer-aided design of a modern mine, feasibility study, pit limit design, mining sequence development, and short-term mine planning.
- Ore deposit geometry
- Geology
- Hydrology
- Geotechnical considerations
- Geography (topography, climate, proximity to infrastructure)
- Mining method selection, transportation, power, water, equipment