Investigate the potential of using fuzzy similarity in decision making under uncertainty for mining projects

Abstract

Multi criteria decision-making methods are used in mining engineering, in which various aspects are involved, such as selecting mining methods, mineral processing sites, etc. Decisions in this field can be made using a variety of techniques. The Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method is one of the most widely used decision-making methods based on multi criteria to make a decision. As part of this research, an attempt was made to investigate how fuzzy measurements can be applied to mining projects to improve the TOPSIS methods' efficiency. A full investigation of the mining method selection process, the waste dump site selection process at Gol-e-Ghar mine Area 3, the location of Bahabad Pelletizing plant, the appropriate site selection for crusher machine Sarcheshmeh copper mine, and loading-haulage equipment selection for Sungun copper mine has been carried out in order to achieve this goal. Accordingly, an area north of the pit was selected as the best location for the waste dump, open-pit mining was selected as the best mining method for the Gol-e-Gohar mine, Cite Number 2 was selected as the best location for the Bahabad Pelletizing Plant, the East side of the Sarcheshmeh copper mine is presented as the most suitable one, and shovel-truck-belt conveyor selected as the transportation method for Sungun copper mine. For mining projects, fuzzy similarity logic in the TOPSIS method provides both accurate and efficient results, as well as reducing the number of calculations. It also provides accurate results based on linguistic, numeric, and fuzzy values and determines whether all alternatives are feasible. Finally, it is shown that the TOPSIS based on fuzzy similarity for considering uncertainty in mining projects that are involved the decision-making process can be practical and useful.