Nondestructive control in evaluation of concrete lining and the space behind the lining in mine shafts at Talnakh

Abstract

The routine inspection of lining and monitoring of water ingress in mine shafts toward enhanced safety and continuity of mining is the top-priority task of the Mine Shaft Geophysics Service at the Geodynamic Safety Center of Norilsk Nickel’s Polar Division. In terms of the underground mines in the Talnakh Ore Province, this article discusses the staged algorithm of integrated monitoring of mine shafts within the mining facilities of Norilsk Nickel’s Polar Division. The algorithm results from the integration of deliverables of outside organizations and experience of geophysical research of mine shafts. The authors emphasize that the approach discussed in this article ensures the best result. The timely and reliable information on the concrete lining and on the space behind the lining in mine shafts, as well as the water ingress prediction makes it possible to reduce the shaft repair cost owing to early detection of anomalous zones at the stage of their incipience. The basic tools of geophysical survey and direct research, including the mathematical modeling, to inspect lining and the space behind the lining in mine shafts are discussed. The georadar survey is the most promising method to examine mine shafts owing to its high capacity, high penetrability and low cost. The georadar survey localizes water intrusion points at high certainty, which is confirmed by many studies. An adjustable mounting rod with odometer is designed for georadar system OKO-3 AB 400, 900 MHz; it ensures precise data binding in vertical shafts. Moreover, this tool allows mounting georadar on a lifting vessel to implement measurements at short and long distances from the test surface owing to the expendable rod.