Modeling land subsidence near the shaft pillars at the Upper Kama potassiummagnesium salt deposit based on the geological and geomechanical model

Abstract

Introduction. Land subsidence is a visible consequence of deformation processes in the rock mass as a result mining. Deformation processes originate at producing horizons and propagate in the rock mass, usually upwards. The presence of natural physical and mechanically weakened zones in the rock mass complicates the situation creating risks of rock fracture propagation. The main problem is that subsidence of the earth's surface can lead to negative consequences for facilities within the undermining zone. Research objective is to carry out geomechanical modeling to adequately display the current situation on the earth's surface in accordance with real actual observational data. The created geological and geomechanical model can later be used to analyze and predict potential fracture zones in the rock within the rated section. Methods of research. The geological and geomechanical model is based on strata geological description, salt and oil wells geophysical exploration data, current position of workings, as well as physical and mechanical properties of rocks building up the rock mass. Results. The paper presents the results of geomechanical modeling of land subsidence at a site of the Upper Kama potassium-magnesium salt deposit in the vicinity of shaft pillars. Calculations were based on a geomechanical model of salt rock deformation and the developed geological and geomechanical model of an orefield site, including shaft barrier pillars regulated by the relevant reference documents. Timely measures for preventing negative consequences are recommended.