Evaluation Matrix Research Articles

Decision Process for Identifying Appropriate Devices for Power Transfer between Voltage Levels in Distribution Grids

During the energy transition, new types of electrical equipment, especially power electronic devices, are proposed to increase the flexibility of electricity distribution grids. One type is the solid-state transformer (SST), which offers excellent possibilities to improve the voltage quality in electricity distribution grids and integrate hybrid AC/DC grids. This paper compares SST to conventional copper-based power transformers (CPT) with and without an on-load tap changer (OLTC) and with additional downstream converters. For this purpose, a corresponding electricity distribution grid is set up in the power system analysis tool DIgSILENT PowerFactory 2022. A DC generator like a photovoltaic system, a DC load like an electric vehicle fast charging station, and an AC load are connected. Based on load flow simulations, the four power transformers are compared concerning voltage stability during a generator-based and a load-based scenario. The results of load flow simulations show that SSTs are most valuable when additional generators and loads are to be connected to the infrastructure, which would overload the existing grid equipment. The efficiency of using SSTs also depends on the parameters of the electrical grid, especially the lengths of the low-voltage (LV) lines. In addition, a flowchart-based decision process is proposed to support the decision-making process for the appropriate power transformer from an electrical perspective. Beyond these electrical properties, an evaluation matrix lists other relevant criteria like characteristics of the installation site, noise level, expected lifetime, and economic criteria that must be considered.

Study on decision-making for orthodontic treatment plans based on analytic hierarchy process

BackgroundOrthodontics is a common treatment for malocclusion and is essential for improving the oral health and aesthetics of patients. Currently, patients often rely on the clinical expertise and professional knowledge of doctors to select orthodontic programs. However, they lack their own objective and systematic evaluation methods to quantitatively compare different programs. Therefore, there is a need for a more comprehensive and quantitative approach to selecting orthodontic treatment plans, aiming to enhance their scientific validity and effectiveness.MethodsIn this study, a combination of the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and semantic analysis was used to evaluate and compare different orthodontic treatment options. An AHP model and evaluation matrix were established through thorough research and semantic analysis of patient requirements. This model considered various treatment factors. Expert panels were invited to rate these factors using a 1–9 scale. The optimal solution was determined by ranking and comparing different orthodontic treatment plans using the geometric mean method to calculate the weights of each criterion.ResultsThe research indicates a higher preference for invisible correction compared to other orthodontic solutions, with a weight score that is 0.3923 higher. Factors such as comfort and difficulty of cleaning have been given significant attention.ConclusionThe Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) method can be utilized to effectively develop orthodontic treatment plans, making the treatment process more objective, scientific, and personalized. The design of this study offers strong decision support for orthodontic treatment, potentially improving orthodontic treatment outcomes in clinical practice and ultimately enhancing oral health and patients’ quality of life.

ACSICS: Joint Distribution Mode Integrating Agricultural Industry Chain Logistics Under the Background of Artificial Intelligence

The purpose is to study the new application of artificial intelligence (AI) technology in the Agro logistics industry distribution modes. This work summarizes the problems in agricultural logistics by investigating the current situation of the logistics distribution modes (LDMs) of Agro products and establishes a joint LDM integrating logistics and agricultural industry chain (AIC). An intelligent virtual center is established for the joint LDM according to the specific situation of Xi’an. Experts are invited to evaluate the proposed LDM. The results show that the existing third-party logistics (3PL), agricultural supermarket docking LDM, and company+farmer shared LDM have respective advantages and disadvantages. The virtual center for the proposed joint LDM multiplies the weight matrix [Formula: see text] and fuzzy evaluation matrix A to obtain a comprehensive fuzzy evaluation result. It evaluates the result according to the maximum membership criterion. Most experts have a relatively good evaluation of the joint LDM. In the comprehensive fuzzy evaluation results, the comprehensive “excellent” score is 0.3755, and the comprehensive “good” score is 0.2678. According to the principle of maximum subordination, the AIC logistics integrating Agro products logistics has an excellent performance, and the overall satisfaction level of performance has exceeded 85%. In addition, Yonghui supermarket adopts the joint LDM, and the price of fruits and vegetables is lower than that of other LDMs. Therefore, the proposed AI-based joint LDM can optimize the distribution route, improve distribution efficiency, and save logistics costs to a great extent.

Fire Risk Assessment Method of Energy Storage Power Station Based on Cloud Model

In response to the randomness and uncertainty of the fire hazards in energy storage power stations, this study introduces the cloud model theory. Six factors, including battery type, service life, external stimuli, power station scale, monitoring methods, and firefighting equipment, are selected as the risk assessment set. The risks are divided into five levels. Membership function is constructed using cloud model. The forward generator is responsible for calculating the complete coefficient matrix and the comprehensive evaluation matrix, while the reverse generator handles the same calculations separately. By utilizing fuzzy synthesis operators and cloud computing, the numerical attributes of the evaluation cloud model are derived, resulting in the creation of a visual representation that illustrates the fire hazard level for energy storage power stations. The results show that the cloud model can be used for fire risk assessment in energy storage power stations. Fuzzy variables can be accurately and clearly represented and corresponded to different safety levels. The effectiveness and feasibility of this assessment method have been verified through case analysis.

Disparities in the protagonism of oral health teams in the work process of Primary Healthcare.

Evaluate and compare the protagonism of Oral Health teams (OHt) in the teamwork process in Primary Healthcare (PHC) over five years and estimate the magnitude of disparities between Brazilian macro-regions. Ecological study that used secondary data extracted from the Sistema de Informação em Saúde para a Atenção Básica (SISAB - Health Information System for Primary Healthcare) from 2018 to 2022. Indicators were selected from a previously validated evaluative matrix, calculated from records in the Collective Activity Form on the degree of OHt's protagonism in team meetings and its degree of organization concerning the meeting agendas. A descriptive and amplitude analysis of the indicators' variation over time was carried out, and the disparity index was also calculated to estimate and compare the magnitude of differences between macro-regions in 2022. In Brazil, between 3.06% and 4.04% of team meetings were led by OHt professionals. The Northeast and South regions had the highest (3.71% to 4.88%) and lowest proportions (1.21% to 2.48%), respectively. From 2018 to 2022, there was a reduction in the indicator of the "degree of protagonism of the OHt" in Brazil and macro-regions. The most frequent topics in meetings under OHt's responsibility were the work process (54.71% to 70.64%) and diagnosis and monitoring of the territory (33.49% to 54.48%). The most significant disparities between regions were observed for the indicator "degree of organization of the OHt concerning case discussion and singular therapeutic projects". The protagonism of the OHt in the teamwork process in PHC is incipient and presents regional disparities, which challenges managers and OHt to break isolation and lack of integration, aiming to offer comprehensive and quality healthcare to the user of the Unified Health System (SUS).

Green knowledge management capability assessment based on interval-valued intuitionistic Fuzzy EWM-TOPSIS-Sort-B

As an emerging concept in knowledge management (KM), green knowledge management plays a crucial role in the sustainable development of enterprises. A reasonable assessment of an enterprise’s green knowledge management capabilities can help the company effectively manage the embedded green knowledge within its operational processes, thereby achieving self-reinforcement of competitive advantages for the enterprise. Therefore, this paper proposes a multi-criteria classification method based on interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy entropy weight method-TOPSIS-Sort-B (EWM-TOPSIS-Sort-B) to assess the green knowledge management capabilities of enterprises. In this method, expert assessments are expressed using interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy sets. A new entropy weight method is introduced into TOPSIS-Sort-B to determine the weights of various evaluation indicators, and TOPSIS-Sort-B is employed to classify and rate each evaluation scheme. It is worth noting that this paper has improved the TOPSIS-Sort-B method by not converting interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy sets into precise values throughout the entire evaluation process, thus avoiding information loss. Finally, we applied a case of knowledge management capability assessment to validate the proposed method, and conducted sensitivity analysis and comparative analysis on this approach. The analysis results indicate that variations in the parameter ϑ of the interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy aggregation operator lead to changes in criterion weights and the comprehensive evaluation matrix, resulting in unordered changes in the final classification results. Due to the absence of transformation of interval values in this study, compared to the four classification methods of TOPSISort-L, the classification results are more detailed, and the evaluation levels are more pronounced.

Development Strategy For Palm Sugar (Arenga Pinnata)

This study aims to determine the characteristics of palm sugar farmers and artisans, identify the internal and external factors affecting palm sugar development, and propose alternative development strategies for palm sugar in Sukamulya Village, Cikembar District, Sukabumi Regency. The selection of this location was purposive, considering that Sukamulya Village is a palm sugar-producing village. The research was conducted in April-May 2023. The analytical methods used in this study included the Internal Factor Evaluation (IFE) matrix, External Factor Evaluation (EFE) matrix, Internal-External (IE) matrix, and SWOT matrix. Respondents were determined through a census, with a total of 20 respondents being palm sugar farmers and artisans in Sukamulya Village. The results of the IFE matrix assessment obtained a total score of 2.45, the EFE matrix obtained a total score of 2.58, and the IE matrix was in cell (V) (hold and maintain). Product development can be achieved through product diversification and innovation. From the assessment of the SWOT matrix analysis, 7 alternative marketing strategies were identified for palm sugar farmers and artisans in Sukamulya Village, Cikembar District, Sukabumi Regency.

Assessment of UNESCO Global Geoparks websites for a public geocommunication

This study proposes a semi-quantitative methodology for assessing the quality of the UNESCO Global Geopark (UGGp) websites. The study was based on mixed indicators (binary and ordinal), grouped into five dimensions (presentation, content, interactivity, usability, and special UNESCO information), combined with multivariate assessment using Principal Component Analysis and the application of the focus group technique using Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) analysis to propose geocommunication strategies. The evaluation matrix, comprising 36 indicators, defined three levels of development (“high”, “moderate”, and “emergent”) and was useful for monitoring website quality and enhancing its territorial value for geotourism, geoconservation, and geoeducation. The results from 156 websites showed a predominance of “moderate development” scores (52.56%) and highlight positive indicators, such as contact information, geotourism details, mobile compatibility, news, and the UGGp logo. This study also presents the potential of immersive technologies, such as virtual reality and 3D tours, for disseminating geo-educational content. However, there is room for improvement in interaction and information standardization on UGGp web platforms to ensure effective communication that enriches the user experience.

Resilience evaluation of low-carbon supply chain based on improved matter-element extension model.

How to evaluate the resilience level and change trend of supply chain is an important research direction in current supply chain management practice. This paper proposes a new method of supply chain resilience assessment based on hesitant fuzzy linguistic term set (HFLTS) and matter element extension theory. Firstly, based on the research status quo at home and abroad, a low-carbon enterprise supply chain resilience assessment index system is established, which includes six first-level indicators and corresponding 21 second-level indicators of product supply resilience, resource resilience, partner resilience, information response resilience, financial resilience and knowledge resilience. Secondly, HFLTS was used to collect expert opinions and Ordered Weighted Arithmetic (OWA) to calculate the expert composite language, by which the fuzzy evaluation matrix of supply chain resilience assessment indicators was obtained. Once again, the resilience indicator weights are determined based on a game-theoretic portfolio assignment method combining the best-worst method (BWM) and the CRITIC method. Finally, the nearness degree function is combined with the extension comprehensive evaluation method to improve the matter element extension model, and the supply chain resilience assessment model of low-carbon enterprises based on the game theory combination assignment-improved matter element extension is established. Taking X low-carbon enterprise as an example, the evaluation results show that the supply chain resilience level of this enterprise is II, and the eigenvalue of the grade variable is 2.69, and the supply chain resilience is shifting to III, and the supply chain resilience is shifting to III, which indicates that the supply chain resilience of this enterprise is being enhanced. Therefore, the improved matter element extension not only ensures the accuracy of the evaluation results, but also has higher prediction accuracy.

A database for oncological research and quality assurance: implementation and first experiences with the University Clinical Cancer Registry Regensburg

Legal requirements, certification specifications, as well as the demand for real world data on cancer research and treatment led to the decision to establish the University Clinical Cancer Registry Regensburg. The first organizational step in the implementation process of this oncological data registry was the evaluation and acquisition of suitable tumor documentation and database software. For this purpose, an evaluation matrix comprising required database software criteria was designed and consented by a multidisciplinary group of experts. Next, a yearly report of the Institute for Cancer Center Certification (OnkoZert 2019) was considered to identify database software already in use. The identified systems were rated according to the established criteria matrix and other relevant aspects. Onkostar was the system considered most suited for building up an oncological data repository. In the second step, the central IT department implemented Onkostar on-premise and migrated digitally available data after an adaptation and verification process. In parallel, a uniformed process for handling emerging oncological research questions was established. For research requirements, a data analysis concept was established comprising a proposal for data extraction, procedural instructions, and statistical training materials. In the final step, the implemented software and the process for handling research requirements in practice were evaluated by using two exemplary use cases with the focus on clinic-wide analyses and currently relevant scientific topics. A 2-month test phase conducted by various user groups showed a preference for Onkostar tumor documentation software from IT-Choice, mainly because of its adjustability to support research and treatment. Newly added and migrated data can be used for certification and research purposes. This software also provides support in current tumor documentation by displaying the course of cancer disease for individual patients over time. Such oncological data registries can be a powerful tool for legally required cancer registration, the certification of medical centers, as well as for additional oncological research. Tumor databases can be helpful in projects on cancer treatment and scientific aims. The experiences made at the University Hospital Regensburg may be used as a guidance for implementing clinical databases in similar settings with interdisciplinary responsibilities.

Resilience assessment model for biodiesel supply chain: an Indonesian case study

Biodiesel is a significant energy resource that yields sustainable economic, social, and environmental benefits. The escalation of global tensions has contributed to increased uncertainty in the energy industry, including in the biodiesel sector. The biodiesel supply chain is frequently exposed to various risks from upstream to downstream supply chain. The ability to respond effectively to disruptions is vital for ensuring the long-term sustainability of the supply chain. Hence, supply chain resilience must be developed. The objective of this study is to design a resilience assessment model by connecting vulnerability factors with capability factors in a relationship matrix. A comprehensive review of the literature and rigorous experts’ opinions are the foundation for this model. The Indonesian biodiesel supply chain can be utilized as a case study to develop strategies based on this assessment to boost business resilience. Some research methods are used in this research such as review literature, questionnaires, expert opinions, and discussion. The assessment model matches various vulnerabilities, including turbulence, external pressure, and resource limits, to capabilities, including flexibility in sourcing, flexibility in order fulfillment, capacity, visibility, adaptability, and collaboration in supply chain resilience. The capability of risk sharing with partners and supplier contract flexibility are common strategies employed by the company to mitigate potential risks and uncertainties, particularly those arising from pricing and supply volatility. This research shows the relationship between vulnerabilities and supply chain capabilities, which enables managers to better prioritize SC capabilities based on the outcomes of the evaluation matrix. This study is also providing valuable insight for the policy implication to promote collaborations amongst Indonesian’s biodiesel supply chains.

Using the AIDA Method in the Design of New Elements for the Photovoltaic Mounting Structures

To address diverse challenges and accelerate the adoption of PV technology, innovative and cost-effective PV assemblies are essential. The Analysis of Interconnected Decision Areas—the AIDA method—offers a promising approach to achieving this goal by providing a structured framework for identifying, assessing, and optimizing the design of PV assemblies. The aim is to demonstrate how AIDA can be effectively used to identify and assess potential improvements in PV assembly design, leading to the development of more efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly PV systems. For this, out of 54 combinations, 10 of them were retained, so that in the end only two possible solutions obtained by applying AIDA remained. Both structures were assessed by applying FEM, analysing data regarding equivalent von Mises stresses and displacements but also the existence of stress hotspots. A design insight study was also carried out. Also, the models were first built by additive manufacturing (3D printing). These models were evaluated by a manufacturer so that the evaluation matrix and criteria satisfaction matrix could be successfully completed. Therefore, AIDA can be successfully used in solving problems in product design in the field of mounting structures for PV panels. Depending on the manufacturer’s capabilities, the intended functions can be adapted quickly, because AIDA is quite simple to apply if the data of the problem are known very well. Following the application of the FEM it was concluded that the surfaces as simple as possible are to be followed in the design of components. Also, an assessment of environmental impact was successfully undertaken by means of software assistance. The decision to use one option or another is a subjective one. If the technical data are followed, then one type of structure is the one that the manufacturer should adopt as a solution to the problem. However, if the manufacturer considers that the impact on the environment is important and dedicates resources in this direction, then a different type of structure should be adopted.

Fuzzy Decision-Making and Resource Management Model of Performance Evaluation Indices

The Performance Evaluation Matrix (PEM) is an excellent decision-making tool for assessment and resource management. Satisfaction Index and Importance Index are two important evaluation indicators of construction and PEM. Managers can decide whether the service item needs to be improved based on the Satisfaction Index of the service item. When resources are limited, managers can determine the priority of improving the service item based on the Importance Index. In order to avoid the risk of misjudgment caused by sample errors and meet the needs of enterprises’ rapid decision-making, this study proposed a fuzzy test built on the confidence intervals of the above two key indicators to decide whether essential service items should be improved and determine the priority of improvement. Since the fuzzy test was relatively complex, this study further came up with fuzzy evaluation values and fuzzy evaluation critical values of service items following fuzzy testing rules. Besides, evaluation rules were established to facilitate industrial applications. This approach can be completed with any common word processing software, so it is relatively convenient in application and easy to manage. Finally, an application example was presented in this paper to explain the applicability of the proposed approach.

Review of a Manpower Recruitment Business Toward a Corporate Expansion Model

This study aims to evaluate JPM Manpower for the proposed business expansion with the development of a marketing strategy. JPM Manpower is a recruitment company bringing professionals and skilled labor force to different countries in the world. This year, a proposed expansion was thought of by the researcher who is the owner of the firm. The combination of the quantitative and qualitative methods was used. To assess if the JPM Manpower is ready for expansion, the researcher conducted this study. Using the quantitative method, the researcher used the survey method in the data gathering to assess customer satisfaction. Using the qualitative method, the researcher evaluated JPM Manpower using the Internal Factors Evaluation (IFE) Matrix where the internal strengths and weaknesses were identified. The results revealed that JPM Manpower has an internal position of 3.25, which indicates that it is in a strong internal position. The EFE Matrix depicts the opportunities and dangers faced by JPM Manpower, as well as the effectiveness of its tactics to capitalize on the opportunities and prevent threats from entering the system. The overall weighted score of 2.66 suggests that, although the firm can meet opportunities and defend against threats, it does not have a strong enough score to safely assume 100% market domination. A representation of the three key zones, each of which has a distinct strategic significance for JPM Manpower is shown in the IE matrix. Data for the JPM Manpower SWOT Analysis was derived from the results of a survey done to measure consumer loyalty and satisfaction, which was then utilized in the Internal Factor Evaluation (IFE) and External Factor Evaluation (EFE) processes (EFE). It was indicated by the SPACE Matrix study of JPM Manpower that it should take a more aggressive approach to prosper. The company has a solid competitive position in the industry and is now undergoing substantial growth. Keywords: Business expansion, IE Matrix, IFE Matrix, EFE Matrix, Space Matrix, Competitor Profile Matrix

Terrestrial environmental sensitivity index mapping (TESIM) of the coastal areas of the Niger Delta region of Nigeria

It can be argued that despite years of research, the true impacts of oil spill pollution on the environment and human sources of livelihoods are yet to be completely understood. Tools such as environmental sensitivity index (ESI) mapping can provide useful information that can significantly mitigate or help eliminate the known impacts of crude oil pollution, by proactively identifying environmentally sensitive areas. This study adapted the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) and geographic information systems (GIS) based multiple criteria analysis (MCA) approach in the objective determination of sensitive sections of the NDR coastal areas, by combining several competing and or related evaluation criteria. The AHP was used to determine and assign relative weights to the data layers through a pairwise comparison evaluation matrix of mutually exclusive evaluation criteria using the Delphi technique, while the MCA was used to aggregate the evaluation criteria into a single map. The results of the MCA analysis show that over 57 % of the study area is sensitive to oil spill pollution in one form or the other. 68 % of the identified sensitive areas are classified as extremely environmentally sensitive with 11,752.14km2, while 7.1 % are classified as less sensitive. This relative classification of environmental sensitivity in the study area is termed the Niger Delta Relative Environmental Sensitivity Index (NDRESI). The implication of these results is that more has to be done if the very sensitive environment of the NDR is to be conserved by tougher environmental legislations, environmental monitoring and environmental education.

Evaluation of technological tendencies in the carbon capture process: a review.

This paper evaluates the technological trends in the carbon sequestration process. For this purpose, these systems have been classified into two subsystems: conventional technologies subsystem and emerging technologies subsystem. Each is explored for its suitability for meeting a set of six attributes. A bibliometric analysis process was developed using the Scopus database and VOSviewer Software to present the potential of each subsystem evaluated, through an evaluation matrix. The analysis of the subsystems and attributes was performed through the formal concept analysis methodology (8FCA). To facilitate the processing of the information, the open access software concept Explorer was used. The analysis shows that conventional technologies, despite their cost, will be maintained and advance in their implementation process. The bibliometric analysis integrated with the applied FCA methodology has proven to be useful for the evaluation of technological typologies and serves as an alternative to develop theoretical studies that group and link different options as a model to evaluate a deterministic set of attributes.

Concentrating Solar Power Systems: a review of their applicability in Colombia

This paper evaluates the applicability of centralized concentrating solar power systems in Colombia. For this purpose, these systems have been classified into four subsystems: parabolic trough, linear Fresnel, parabolic dish and tower. Each is explored for its suitability by meeting a set of six attributes. A bibliometric analysis process was developed using the Scopus database and the VOSviewer software to present the potential of each subsystem evaluated through an evaluation matrix. The analysis of the subsystems and attributes was carried out through the formal concept analysis methodology 8FCA). To facilitate data processing, the open access software concept Explorer is implemented. The analysis shows that parabolic trough technology is more widely used worldwide than the other three technologies evaluated, and its maturity makes it possible to plan centralized and decentralized projects in developing countries. The bibliometric analysis integrated with the applied FCA methodology has proven to be useful for the evaluation of technological typologies and serves as an alternative to develop theoretical studies that group and link different options as a model to evaluate a deterministic set of attributes.

Innovative Drought Classification Matrix and Acceptable Time Period for Temporal Drought Evaluation

AbstractEvaluating drought is paramount in water resources management and drought mitigation plans. Drought indices are essential tools in this evaluation, which mainly depends on the time period of the original datasets. Investigating the effects of time periods is critical for a comprehensive understanding and evaluation of drought. Also, It holds particular significance for regions facing data availability challenges. The existing literature reveals a gap in drought assessment and comparison analysis using conventional methods based on drought indices only. This research proposes an innovative drought classification matrix to compare drought indices and spatial and temporal scenarios; the proposed matrix depends on any drought classification for comparison procedure. Furthermore, it aims to investigate the differences between several time period scenarios based on the proposed matrix and several statistical metrics (R2, CC, RMSE, HH, and RB) and determine the acceptable/minimum time period. The application of the proposed matrix and selection of an acceptable/minimum time period is presented to three different climates: Durham station in the United Kingdom, Florya station in Türkiye, and Karapinar station in Türkiye. The results show that the time period scenarios are able to catch the reference time period (RTP) scenario reasonably, with strong correlation and negative relative bias. The 10-year time period is sufficient as an acceptable/minimum time period for short timescales, such as meteorological drought. Conversely, for longer timescales, such as hydrological drought, a 20-year time period is the acceptable/minimum time period. The proposed matrix demonstrates a robust and powerful framework for comparison, making it applicable to various drought assessment scenarios globally.

Participatory Analysis of Impacts of Agricultural Production Systems in a Watershed Depicting Southern Brazilian Agriculture

The objective of this study was to propose a multidimensional model capable of evaluating, in a participatory method, the pressures agricultural production systems cause to aquatic ecosystems. The model was structured with information compiled from scientific articles, doctoral theses, public documents, and field research performed with the participation of stakeholders through interviews, questionnaires, and group evaluations. The evaluation matrix combines seven criteria and twenty-five sub-criteria with different weights to evaluate two main aspects: (i) land occupation and soil management and (ii) agricultural waste production and disposal. The model was tested in 14 agricultural farms, representing four productive arrangements, in a large watershed (2400 km2) in southern Brazil. The geophysical characteristics of the site (18.3%), land use and occupation (28.2%), management practices (soil and water) (25.4%), manure and fertilizers (12.6%), pesticides (14.1%), agricultural waste and discards (1.4%) were the criteria and their respective weights used in the structure of the proposed evaluation model. The evaluation showed that the combination of the fragility of cultivated environments and the absence of conservation practices represented the greatest risks (72.9%) to maintaining the sound environmental conditions of aquatic ecosystems. For future research, it is recommended that a cost-effectiveness analysis be carried out to evaluate environmental conflicts.

Visual inspection results and evaluation of Akhtala tailing safety based on tailing management facility safety methodology

Relevance. Mining sector is one of the leading branches of the industry in Armenia. Therefore, effective government regulation of the sector based on a sound legal basis is a necessity. Accidents at tailing management facilities are posing a high risk to people and environment especially in their near vicinity and often have a transboundary impact. The tailing management facility safety methodology elaborated under the auspices of the German Environmental Agency is an efficient tool for quick assessment of the technical condition of the tailing management facilities. Aim. To present the results of application of the tailing management facility methodology in Armenia, which was applied to the operated Nahatak tailing management facility of the Akhtala Ore Dressing Combine (Lori region, Armenia).  Objects. Tailing management facility methodology was applied to the operated tailing management facility Nahatak of the Akhtala Ore Dressing Combine, for which all documentation was checked. Enrichment wastes were stored at the tailing management facility during processing copper ore from the Shamlug mine and polymetals from the Akhtala mine. The main visual inspection was carried out in three parts of the tailing management facility: main dam, drainage canal and secondary dam. Special attention was drawn to main dam conditions. The video recorded by a drone was used to explore the dam bottom-line. Methods. The tailing management facility methodology includes the following elements: the method of evaluation of Tailings Hazard Index; the tailing management facility checklists including the questionnaire for visual and documentation inspection, the evaluation matrix for the tailing management facility safety level; the measures catalogue for taking actions to improve tailing management facility safety. The questions of the each tailing management facility checklist are stated in a way to encompass the minimum set of the requirements, critical for tailing management facility safety, which allows evaluating the tailing management facility conditions. Questions in all groups of the checklist are sorted by the tailing management facility lifecycle and each subsection contains relevant questions applied to a specific stage (design, construction, operation, re-cultivation, closure). Application of the tailing management facility checklist is supported by a measures catalogue with short-, medium- and long-term safety measures. Results. The tailing management facility methodology was used/tested for the operated tailing management facility in Armenia for the first time. Тhe main problems of the Nahatak tailing management facility were identified and analyzed, and appropriate recommendations were provided based on them. Based on the obtained results it can be concluded that the main problems are related to the drainage system and the management of water flows, some parts of the primary dam that require restoration, as well as the improvement of monitoring systems. At the same time the experience of application of the tailing management facility methodology in Armenia, allowed improving this methodology and making it the most effective working tool for quick and efficient visual inspection of tailing management facilities and for thorough inspection of relevant documentations. The user-friendly tailing management facility safety methodology (with questionnaires of visual and documentation checking) is an efficient tool for quick assessment of the technical condition of the tailing management facilities, as well as for training staff both in the governance bodies and in mining enterprises.