Methods for studying the parameters of the formation of a backfilling mass of open pit cavities from metallurgical slags

Abstract

Purpose. Development of a methodological algorithm for performing analytical and experimental studies to substantiate rational parameters for the formation of a filling mass from metallurgical slags in worked-out opencast cavities. Methodology. The use of the physical modeling method to study the degree of permeability of atmospheric precipitation into the filling massif and determine its key physical properties, considering the criteria for the similarity of nature and the model, was proposed and substantiated. The use of numerical modeling by the finite element method for predicting deformations of the filling mass and achieving its stable state has been substantiated. Results.Theoretical aspects of the order of formation of a stable filling mass for various types of metallurgical slags under the action of a load, the layers of which are characterized by different physical properties, are presented. To form the height of the bottom sealed filling layer from steel-making slag in conditions of the degree of permeability of atmospheric precipitation and the formation of filtrate it is proposed. The characteristics of the physical model of the filling mass and the maximum amount of precipitation, which will affect its surface, have been determined. The key physical properties of the main layers of the backfill massif (voidness, bulk density, compaction coefficient) and methods of their determination for the formation of its stable state are highlighted. The features of the numerical modeling of the deformations of the filling mass based on the Drucker-Prager strength model for bulk materials in the SolidWorks software package have been determined. Original. The scientific and methodological foundations for the formation of a safe and stable filling array of opencast cavities based on metallurgical slags have been created. Practical implication. A methodological algorithm has been developed that makes it possible to determine the parameters of the formation of a filling mass with the subsequent restoration of natural landscapes and to dispose of significant volumes of safe industrial waste in quarry cavities.