Mining Practices Research Articles

Hydration Mechanisms of Gelled Paste Backfills for Potash Mines Using Lime as a Gel Material

This paper investigates the flow performance and mechanical properties of underground gelled filling materials made from potash mine tailings, using lime as a gel. It demonstrates the feasibility of using lime as a gel, potash mine tailings as aggregate, and replacing water with potash mine tailings to create filling materials that meet design requirements for flow and compressive strength. The role of lime in the hardening process is explored through X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and infrared analysis. Results show that hydration products vary with lime dosage. With 9% lime (L9), the products are primarily ghiaraite (CaCl2·4H2O) and carnallite (KMgCl3·6H2O); with 5% lime (L5), tachyhydrite (CaMg2Cl6·12H2O) predominates, along with minor amounts of antarcticite (CaCl2·6H2O) and korshunovskite (Mg2Cl(OH)3·4H2O); and with 2.6% lime (L2.6), the products include tachyhydrite, ghiaraite, bischofite (MgCl2·6H2O), and korshunovskite. These hydration products form a dense, interwoven structure, enhancing the strength of the filling material. This study offers a theoretical foundation for using lime gel as a filling material in potash mining, with significant implications for sustainable mining practices.

Industrial Carbonate Production with Ornamental Stone Quarry Waste: From the Waste Pile to Final Product

Objective: The objective of this study is to analyze the utilization of ornamental stone quarry waste and its transformation into industrial carbonate production, aiming to promote circular economy practices in mining. Theoretical Framework: This research is grounded in concepts of sustainable waste management and circular economy in the mining sector, emphasizing theories related to waste transformation into valuable industrial products. Method: The methodology included technical visits to a quarry and a processing plant, where extraction, storage, and processing practices of waste were observed and documented. Data collection involved interviews with production teams and 3D modeling of mining areas. Results and Discussion: The results revealed that quarry waste from ornamental rock production can be used to produce carbonates of various particle sizes, suitable for applications in the construction, thermoplastics, and other industries. The analysis highlighted the feasibility of converting mining waste into high-value materials, contributing to the sustainability of the sector. Research Implications: This research provides practical insights into how mining waste can be efficiently managed and repurposed, promoting a more sustainable approach to waste management. Originality/Value: The study contributes by demonstrating and documenting the utilization of waste materials, showcasing their applications across diverse sectors, and reinforcing the economic and environmental benefits of circular economy practices in mining.

Assessing the Impact of Surface Blast Design Parameters on the Performance of a Comminution Circuit Processing a Copper-Bearing Ore

Open-pit mining remains the dominant method for copper extraction in current operations, with blasting playing a pivotal role in the efficiency of downstream processes such as loading, hauling, crushing, and milling. This study assesses the impact of surface blast design parameters on the performance of a comminution circuit processing a copper-bearing ore. The analysis focuses on important design parameters such as burden, spacing, stemming, and powder factor, evaluating their influence on the fragment size distribution and downstream comminution circuit performance. Using the Kuz-Ram model, four novel blast designs are compared against a baseline to predict the size distribution of rock fragments (X80). Key performance indicators throughput and specific energy consumption are calculated to evaluate the comminution circuit performance. Results demonstrated that reducing the X80 from 500 mm to 120 mm led up to a 20% increase in throughput and a 29% reduction in total specific energy consumption. Furthermore, achieving finer particle sizes through more intensive blasting contributed to a reduction in total operating costs by up to 12%. These findings provide valuable insights for optimizing blast design to improve comminution circuit performance, contributing to sustainable mining practices by reducing energy consumption, operating costs, and the environmental footprint of mining operations.

Data mining implementation: a survey

In the current era, the relentless advancement of information technology necessitates efficient information acquisition, which relies on proper data processing. To address the challenges in data organization, data mining emerges as a pivotal solution. This study aims to delve into various methodologies for data grouping. Employing a survey approach, the research scrutinizes journals published from 2020 to 2024. The findings illuminate prevalent techniques, algorithms, and software tools utilized in similar research domains. Notably, the study reveals that the predominant approach entails clustering via K-Means leveraging RapidMiner. This insight underscores the significance of employing robust methodologies and tools to streamline data processing and analysis in the contemporary information landscape. By elucidating the prevalent techniques and tools, this study contributes to enhancing understanding and fostering advancements in data mining practices, thereby facilitating more efficient data utilization and decision-making processes.

Preface

Good morning, Honorable Governor of West Nusa Tenggara Distinguished guests, speakers, conference participants, and colleagues, I am deeply honored and excited to welcoming all of you to The 3rd International Conference on Mining and Environmental Technology. The theme of our conference this year, “Good Mining Practices and Energy Transition in the Mining Industry,” is highly relevant and significant in today’s global context. Amid the challenges of climate change and the need for sustainable energy sources, the mining industry plays a crucial role. Good mining practices not only ensure environmental sustainability but also enhance operational efficiency and safety. By adopting the latest technologies and best practices, we can minimize the negative impacts on the environment and surrounding communities. The energy transition in the mining industry is also a vital step towards a greener and more sustainable future. The use of renewable energy and innovations in energy technology can reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and lower carbon emissions. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that the mining industry can adapt and contribute positively to global efforts in combating climate change. I am pleased to inform you that there will be 51 presented papers across plenary and parallel sessions. Paper presenters are from New Zealand, Australia, United State of America, Turkey, Malaysia, and Indonesia. In addition, I would like to convey my deepest gratitude to the keynote speakers: Professor Michael Walmsley, Associate Professor Wahidul Biswas, Professor Mahmud Yavuz, Associate Professor Datu Buyung Agusdinata, Associate Professor Hareyani binti Zabidi, and Mr. Tonny Gultom. I hope this conference serves as an effective platform for sharing knowledge, experiences, and innovations in mining and environmental technology. Let us take this opportunity to discuss, collaborate, and find solutions that can be implemented in the field. List of Conference Committees are available in this Pdf.

Analysis of vegetation dynamics from 2001 to 2020 in China's Ganzhou rare earth mining area using time series remote sensing and SHAP-enhanced machine learning

Rare earth mining, essential for modern industries and economic growth, often leads to severe environmental degradation. Previous research has explored the ecological impacts of rare earth mining but has not fully investigated the intricate interplay and subdivisions of environmental and anthropogenic factors driving vegetation changes over extended periods. This study addresses this gap by employing time series remote sensing and SHAP-enhanced machine learning to analyze vegetation dynamics in China's Ganzhou rare earth mining area from 2001 to 2020. Using the kNDVI derived from Landsat data, we identified three distinct vegetation trajectory types: pro-environment, des-environment, and res-environment. An ensemble machine learning model combined with SHAP analysis revealed the cropland area proportion, PM10 levels, and shrubland area proportion as the most influential factors affecting vegetation across all mining types. Additionally, after 2012, the palmer drought severity index and downward surface shortwave radiation emerged as positive contributors to vegetation health, while population pressure had a more substantial negative influence in des-environment areas. Our findings highlight spatial heterogeneity in vegetation recovery patterns and highlight the complex interactions among land cover changes, air quality, climate factors, and human activities in shaping vegetation dynamics. This study provides valuable insights for developing targeted, context-specific restoration strategies in rare earth mining areas, contributing to more sustainable mining practices and global environmental management.

Geochemical studies of potential acid-forming classification materials to reduce acid mine drainage formation

Abstract Acid mine drainage (AMD) is acidic wastewater produced in coal mining operations due to sulfide mineral oxidation. In compliance with the regulations of good mining practice procedures, each mining operation must conduct a geochemical study of the distribution of material classification categories to identify the potential acid-forming (PAF) or not acid-forming (NAF) materials to mitigate the AMD. This research conducted a field observation at one of the post-mining lakes of a coal mining operation in South Kalimantan. It determined materials or rocks that have the potential for acid formation using static tests with the Net Total Acid Producing Potential (NTAPP) method. The results of coring samples were processed to obtain rock lithology data for four drilling points, demonstrating one layer of low-capacity PAF material in borehole point A, one layer of low-capacity PAF material, and one layer of PAF material in borehole point B. Only one layer of PAF material was in borehole point C and borehole point D. These PAF/NAF data highlighted essential information about PAF/NAF, underscoring the significant role of our work in improving the strength and accuracy of mitigation plans and reducing acid mine drainage.

Evaluation of Vegetation Health in the PT X Reclamation Area Using the NDVI Method Based on Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Multispectral Orthophoto Data

Abstract According to the International Energy Agency (IEA) in 2023, Indonesia became the third-largest coal-producing country globally after China and India. Indonesia’s coal production amounted to 775.2 million tons in 2023, and around 27% was used for domestic needs. Coal mining in Indonesia generally uses an open-pit mining system, which impacts changes in land cover, landscape form, and the loss of flora and fauna. To dismiss this stigma, good mining practices must be applied in every process to ensure the balance of post-mining land’s natural and social functions. One effort to restore the condition of post-mining land is revegetation. Revegetation activities on ex-mining land require much time, money, and energy, so the planted vegetation must be monitored and evaluated. The problem often encountered when using Landsat and Sentinel satellite image data is that clouds cover many areas because the island of Kalimantan has a tropical climate with high rainfall, humidity, and temperature throughout the year. Then, using multispectral aerial photography data is one solution for monitoring plant health. With the advancement of photogrammetric technology using multispectral cameras, it is possible to analyze the health of reclaimed plants using the NDVI method. The results of the NDVI analysis on reclaimed plants produced the highest index value of 0.877 and the lowest value of 0.013. With very healthy plant criteria covering 12.47 ha (71.5%), healthy plant criteria covering 4.95 ha (28.4%), and unhealthy criteria covering 0.02 ha (0.1%).

The Sustainable Practices of Coal Mining Industry in One Local Government in China

This study investigates the effectiveness and challenges of sustainable practices within the coal mining industry in Handan, Hebei, China. Coal remains a vital component of China’s energy security and is central to its carbon neutrality goals, yet it also contributes to significant environmental impacts. While the Chinese government has implemented policies to curb coal consumption, coal mining is still integral to the country’s energy landscape. This research examines sustainable practices in coal mining, focusing on technological innovations, reclamation efforts, and community engagement. It also assesses the challenges faced by the industry, including regulatory compliance, financial constraints, and workforce development. Using a mixed-method approach of surveys, interviews, and data analysis, the study aims to comprehensively understand the current state of sustainable practices in Handan’s coal industry. Findings will offer insights into the benefits of sustainability initiatives, such as emissions reduction and economic efficiency while identifying key barriers to implementation. The study’s results are intended to inform policymakers, industry leaders, and local communities about effective strategies to enhance sustainability in coal mining, contributing to the broader goal of achieving environmentally and economically sustainable resource management.

An Enhanced Empirical Model for Predicting Continuous Fracturing in Rock Masses

Abstract A reliable empirical prediction of the height of fracturing (HoF) is significant for mining impact assessment and mine sustainability. However, the prediction accuracy is often limited by the parameter and data coverage involved in empirical models. This paper develops a new predictive model that incorporates mining parameters, as well as the proportion and strength of stiff strata, as predictors for enhanced mining impact assessments. A HoF database has been established by sourcing 80 cases from 50 mines in Australia and China. Statistical interpretation identifies positive correlations of HoF to mining height, panel width, and cover depth. Numerical modelling and sensitivity analysis identify that both the proportion and strength of stiff units negatively correlate to HoF and are more significant than bedding plane frequency. The two critical rock parameters are statistically independent and should be considered for enhanced HoF predictions. A predictive model is established by nonlinear regression over the 80 datasets, with both rock parameters involved by mapping to a dimensionless indicator of strata competency considering dimensional consistency. The model is tested with an $${R}^{2}$$ R 2 of 0.84 and more accurate predictions than several historical models regarding 24 new cases. Prediction bounds with a confidence level of 95% are developed considering the rock parameter variability, providing conservative HoF predictions for cases where significant natural features should be preserved for sustainable mining practices. This paper assesses the influence of rock parameters that have not been considered in historical models on continuous fracturing and provides an enhanced empirical method for mining impact assessment.

Unveiling the Bioleaching Versatility of Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans

Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans is a Gram-negative bacterium that thrives in extreme acidic conditions. It has emerged as a key player in biomining and bioleaching technologies thanks to its unique ability to mobilize a wide spectrum of elements, such as Li, P, V, Cr, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ga, As, Mo, W, Pb, U, and its role in ferrous iron oxidation and reduction. A. ferrooxidans catalyzes the extraction of elements by generating iron (III) ions in oxic conditions, which are able to react with metal sulfides. This review explores the bacterium’s versatility in metal and elemental mobilization, with a focus on the mechanisms involved, encompassing its role in the recovery of industrially relevant elements from ores. The application of biomining technologies leveraging the bacterium’s natural capabilities not only enhances element recovery efficiency, but also reduces reliance on conventional energy-intensive methods, aligning with the global trend towards more sustainable mining practices. However, its use in biometallurgical applications poses environmental issues through its effect on the pH levels in bioleaching systems, which produce acid mine drainage in rivers and lakes adjacent to mines. This dual effect underscores its potential to shape the future of responsible mining practices, including potentially in space, and highlights the importance of monitoring acidic releases in the environment.

Considering the development levels of countries, contributions of mineral recovery from mining tailings and urban mining wastes to sustainability criteria – A review

The need for a sustainable mining waste management/legislation and mineral recovery from tailings is increasing day by day in the world. There is a need to draw a perspective for mining companies and public authorities & Sustainable Development Organizations (SDOs) on the sustainable recovery of mine waste from both mining operations and urban mining. Although there are many publications in the literature on mineral recovery from mine wastes, there is a lack of a study that will respond to the information needs of public authorities & SDOs in terms of both mining enterprises and urban mining sector on sustainable mineral recovery by covering the latest developments in the world and making the distinction between waste and tailing. Considering this deficiency in the literature, this study firstly emphasizes the on-site mitigation of mine wastes and their environmental impacts, and briefly discusses mine wastes & tailings dams in the mining process. Then, the mitigation of negative environmental impacts in landfills and the feasibility of mineral recovery from mining tailings and urban mining wastes are evaluated. Finally, the objective of mineral recovery in the context of sustainable development and legislative efforts are discussed. The results of the study are as follows: The wastes generated as a result of mining operations have increased worldwide. These mine wastes are used to recycle mines. The necessity and nature of the recovery of minerals from wastes necessitates the efficient management of these wastes. At this point, there is a need for effective and up-to-date mining waste legislation, incentives and practices to ensure an sustainable mining waste management and optimum mineral recovery from mining tailings. The categories of "mineral recovery from mining tailings" and "mineral recycling from urban mining waste" were compared by assigning an estimated score out of ten, considering the level of development of the countries and the characteristics of the categories. In this comparison, the contribution/relationships of the activities in these categories to different sustainability criteria are shown and in-text citations are considered in the scoring. By considering these contribution levels or lack thereof, countries with different levels of development in different geographies around the world can develop their mineral waste management and mineral recovery policies in much more detail, considering their mineral requirements and waste inventories. This study may contribute to less mineral waste generation and cleaner, more efficient, and sustainable mineral recovery in mining operations, thanks to the awareness it will create for mining companies and public authorities & SDOs. This study serves as a guide for SDOs and countries’ policymakers & mining sector on mineral recovery from waste in countries.

Traditional opal mining practice in Ethiopia, challenges and its economic impact on rural households: the case of wollo opal mining

Background The discovery spurred further exploration, leading to the expansion of opal mining into neighboring districts. Numerous cooperative groups, composed of small-scale miners, traditionally explore, develop, and extract significant amounts of rough opal gemstones. This study tries to investigate the challenges and economic impacts of traditional opal mining practice in wollo province of Ethiopia. Methods The study used in this study is primary data collected from rural households, which are living in five districts of north wollo zone, in Amhara regional state. The data was collected using field observation, focus grouped discussion, interview, and questionnaire from sampled households. The study uses both descriptive and econometric methods of data analysis to achieve its objective. Results Among the challenges of traditional opal mining, primitive way of exploring and extraction, limited access to market and low institutional support in terms of training and finance are identified. The probit model reveals that, increased education, access to training, and access to credit positively influence the likelihood of engaging in opal mining. The ESR model shows that, the average treatment effect on the treated (ATT) indicates that participating in opal mining increases monthly income by 31,380 ETB, while the average treatment effect on the untreated (ATU) shows a potential income increase of 31,625 ETB for non-miners if they engaged in mining. Conclusion The study identifies three main categories of challenges faced by traditional opal miners: exploration and extraction issues, market limitations, and regulatory and institutional shortcomings. Exploration and extraction challenges include the lack of modern mining tools and knowledge, as well as difficult terrain, leading to inefficient and hazardous mining practices. Market-related challenges involve limited access to broader markets and lack of value addition, resulting in miners selling raw opals at significantly lower prices compared to polished ones.

Coal Mine Dust Size Distributions, Chemical Compositions, and Source Apportionment

Current regulations mandate the monitoring of respirable coal mine dust (RCMD) mass and crystalline silica in underground coal mines to safeguard miner health. However, other RCMD characteristics, such as particle size and chemical composition, may also influence health outcomes. This study collected RCMD samples from two underground coal mines and performed detailed chemical speciation. Source apportionment was used to estimate RCMD and silica contributions from various sources, including intake air, fire suppression limestone dust, coal dust, diesel engine exhaust, and rock strata. The mine dust mass-based size distributions were comparable to those recorded over a decade ago, with a peak around 10 μm and the majority of the mass in the supermicron size range. The current mine conditions and mining practices do not appear to have significantly increased the generation of smaller particles. Limestone rock dust was prevalent in many locations and, along with coal dust, was the main contributor to RCMD at high-concentration locations. Silica accounted for over 10% of RCMD mass at several active mining locations, primarily from limestone and rock strata dust. Reducing the concentration of limestone dust and its silica content could reduce RCMD and silica levels. Further cleaning of the intake air could also improve the overall mine air quality.

Geological characteristics of coal mines in the Zagros basin of Iran: Unveiling rock mechanical properties and time-dependent behavior

The Zagros Basin in southwestern Iran is a significant source of coal, with numerous coal mines operating in the region. Ensuring the stability of coal mines is crucial for safe and efficient mining operations. This study investigates the time-varying response of rocks and roof resistance in coal mines in the Zagros Mountains using a novel approach that combines numerical simulation, relaxation testing, and rock displacement studies. The results show that rocks exhibit significant time-dependent behavior, with changes in rock mechanical properties over time. A comprehensive viscoelastic-plastic model is developed to accurately describe the time-varying strain-softening response of rocks and simulate laboratory tests. The model integrates the Burgers and strain-softening models, simulating stress relaxation curves and rock displacement over time. The study reveals that the rock mass displays significant nonlinear behavior, with changes in rock mechanical properties over time. The findings of this study highlight the importance of considering the time-varying response of rocks and roof resistance in coal mine stability analysis. The results provide valuable insights into the time-dependent behavior of rock mass in coal mines in Iran, which can inform mining practices and mitigate potential hazards. Results in this study can contribute to developing strategies for improving roof stability and reducing the likelihood of roof collapses.

Incidencia de la educación ambiental en el pensamiento ambiental en contexto de explotación minera del carbón

The article presents the result of research on environmental education as a determining strategy for reducing environmental impacts derived from mining practices. The objective was to analyze the effect of environmental education on the environmental thinking of high school students in the context of mining exploitation, which takes place in an educational institution. The qualitative methodology was developed taking into account three phases: the first, descriptive, dealt with the purposes of environmental education; the second, explanatory, on teaching practices for the application of environmental education; and the third one is comprehensive and sought to reveal the rationality that underlies the students' thinking and practices. The results show the existence of a dominated environmental thought based on instrumental rationality and weak sustainability. It is made evident by the naturalization of concepts and habits that ignore the reality of the environment in the mining context. It also reveals critical thinking in students that emerges as a reflection in favor of socio-environmental change in the territory based on participation and training in values.

Leveraging data mining and cybersecurity techniques to enhance algorithmic trading performance and forensic investigations in financial markets

In the evolving landscape of financial markets, the convergence of data mining, cybersecurity, and algorithmic trading plays a pivotal role in enhancing trading performance and forensic investigations. This study investigates how data mining techniques are leveraged to extract meaningful patterns and trends from vast financial datasets, improving the accuracy and profitability of algorithmic trading strategies. By identifying historical trends, price movements, and trade margins, data mining enables traders to optimize decision-making processes and manage risks more effectively. Cybersecurity emerges as a critical factor in safeguarding both trading algorithms and sensitive financial data from cyber threats. The integration of advanced cybersecurity measures ensures the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of trading systems, reducing vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malicious actors. Additionally, forensic investigation techniques are employed to detect fraudulent trading activities, such as insider trading and market manipulation, thereby protecting market participants and maintaining regulatory compliance. This research highlights the importance of combining secure data mining practices with robust cybersecurity measures to enhance the overall performance of algorithmic trading systems. Furthermore, it explores how forensic methodologies can help detect anomalies and ensure the transparency and fairness of financial markets. Through an integrated approach, this study emphasizes the potential of data mining and cybersecurity in transforming trading operations while mitigating risks associated with cyber threats and financial fraud.

A comprehensive assessment of gold leaching wastewater through pollution and water quality indices. Case study: Small scale extraction facilities in the department of Caldas—Colombia

This study introduced a comprehensive methodology (the Six-Indices method for Water Pollution Assessment) to evaluate the quality of gold leaching effluents. Sampling was conducted for 14 months in small-scale gold mining facilities in the department of Caldas, Colombia. 23 physicochemical parameters were selected based on environmental regulations, standards of use for agricultural purposes and WHO recommendations. They covered general characteristics of effluents and critical inputs of the leaching process. 15 (pH, COD, TSS, CN−, Cl−, SO42−, S2−, Cd, Zn, Cu, Cr, Fe, Ni, Ag, and Pb) of them exceeded permissible limits. Multivariate statistical analysis (Person's correlation and hierarchical clustering analysis) and six Wastewater Quality Indices (WWQIs: Arithmetic Weighted Water Quality Index, WAWQI, Synthetic Pollution Index, SPI, Index of Water Pollution, WPI, Comprehensive Pollution Index, CPI, Heavy Metal Pollution Index, HPI, and Degree of Pollution, Cd) were used to comprehensively assess the effluent contamination. Key pollutant interactions (hydrocarbons & fats and oils, Zn & CN−, Cu & Cl−, as well as CN− & COD & SO42−) were revealed guiding targeted mitigation strategies. CN− and heavy metals were the main pollutants, posing serious environmental risks due to their high levels. The calculated HPI value was above the critical level of 100, indicating that the artisanal gold leaching operations in the studied area could be hazardous to human health. This study provides a starting point for developing effective and sustainable strategies to manage wastewater in mining regions in Colombia and other areas with similar mining practices.

The Impact of Illegal Mining on Sports Participation and Community Well-being in Ghana: Challenges and Prospects for Sustainable Development

This study aims to evaluate the effects of illegal mining on sports participation and community well-being in Ghana. The study specifically seeks to determine the impact of galamsey activities on community health, athlete development, sports infrastructure, and general sports participation in areas affected by mining. This study evaluates the effects of illegal mining on sports engagement and community well-being in Ghana. The Galamsey, an illegal small-scale mining practice, negatively impacts social infrastructures, particularly community well-being and sports participation. The report suggests that there are health hazards from environmental pollution, deteriorating sporting facilities, and a decline in youth involvement due to unlawful mining activities. However, the shift towards mining has disrupted sustainable livelihoods and communal cohesiveness, impeding local talent and community growth. The study used a qualitative research technique to examine the effects of illicit mining on Manso Datano and Keniago in Amansie West and Amansie South Districts. Thirty participants, including youth leaders, teachers, coaches, health workers, and community elders, were interviewed. This study highlights the devastation of sports facilities, health risks, and mitigating measures. It also highlights the decline in parental and school involvement in sports, as well as the absence of equipment, upkeep, and enthusiasm for sports activities. The study recommends community engagement tactics, public awareness campaigns, school assistance, community activities, and legal actions to lessen these effects. Policy reforms, funding for sports infrastructure restoration, and the integration of health and sports activities are proposed as vital steps towards sustainable development and recovery in affected areas.

Assessment of fly ash based sand as a perspective alternate backfill material for stowing in mining activity

Due to the paucity of river sand and increased regulations on sand mining, mine fill voids are kept emptied, fostering the demand for alternate backfilling material. This study attempts to develop fly ash based sand (FAB Sand) using abundantly available fly ash alone as resource material and explores its suitability as a stowing material in mine void applications, including both underground and open mining activity. Since sand within particle sizes from 4.75 to 0.075 mm is explicitly used for stowing applications, FAB Sand is developed within the same particle size range. Its applicability is evaluated in terms of physical, chemical, mechanical, morphological and mineralogical properties, and suitability is assessed by comparing vis-à-vis with river sand. Towards environmental acceptability, leaching characteristics and human health risks of FAB Sand are examined comprehensively. The findings of the study reveal that FAB Sand is not only doable and promising but could also become a sustainable alternate backfilling material for stowing in mining activities. Results pertaining to environmental acceptability endorse that FAB Sand poses no threat to ecology and human health. Overall, the proposed novel alternate backfill material and its employability alleviates the mining of sand from rivers while concurrently accentuating sustainable solutions for mining practices.