IR@CIMFR - Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research (CSIR)
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Elemental Composition and Petrographic Analysis of Coal in the Sohagpur Coalfield With Implications for Environmental Management
No full textThis paper aims to provide an overview of the geochemistry and mineralogical characterisation of coal within the Sohagpur coalfield, located in the Burhar–Amlai Sub Basin of Madhya Pradesh, India. The study involves the determination of proximate and ultimate analysis components, major elements, and trace elements by using various techniques, including x-ray diffraction (XRD), x-ray fluorescence (XRF), oranic petrography, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Scanning Electron Microscopy–Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS). Petrological studies identify the types of macerals and minerals associated in coals, assess their concentration, and examine their association with elements found in the coal samples. Our research also delves into the environmental implications of these elements, particularly those considered environmentally sensitive, such as As, Cd, Co, Cr, Mn, Ni, Pb, Th and U. These findings are crucial for understanding the potential environmental impact associated with the utilisation of coal. This study identified several major sources of these elements within the coal, including silicate minerals (Quartz and Feldspar), oxides (Haematite, Rutile and Anatase), sulphides (Pyrite and Marcasite), sulphates (Gypsum) and carbonates (Calcite). Recognising these sensitive components is vital as they require mitigation or elimination before coal utilisation to minimise environmental risks. Our study delivers a valuable understanding of the geochemical composition and mineralogical characteristics of coal in the Sohagpur coalfield, highlighting the importance of environmental considerations in the utilisation of these resources
Integrated air quality prediction and mitigation strategies for sustainable mining operations in India
No full textThe study focuses on dual purpose of forecasting air pollution levels and implementing eco-friendly dust suppression methods for a planned expansion of a lignite mine in India, aligning with the goal of achieving sustainable mining practices. The main objective is to predict the highest concentration of dust emissions from the mine, both with and without the implementation of mitigation measures. The study determined the baseline levels of PM10, PM2.5, SO2, and NOx in the surrounding of the mine site. The recorded values ranged from 53.1–79.5, 20.2–43.2, 16.6–31.2, and 21.2–50.1 µg m–3, correspondingly. The concentrations detected were below the allowable thresholds of 100, 60, 80, and 80 µg m–3, correspondingly. Air quality modelling was conducted to forecast the air quality in the vicinity of the lignite mine, both with and without the implementation of control measures during the project's expansion phase. This was achieved by measuring background air pollutants level, assessing emission sources, determining activity-specific emission rates, analysing micro-meteorological parameters, and identifying receptor locations. Without the application of control measures, the projected levels of PM10, PM2.5, SO2, and NOx are assessed to range from 73.9–97.1, 31.9–44.2, 11.46–21.09, and 15.27–28.40 µg m–3, respectively. However, by employing mitigation measures during the mine's expansion operation, it is expected that the amounts of PM10, PM2.5, SO2, and NOx will be within the range of 73.5–82.5, 31.8–43.8, 9.38–20.14, and 13.17–25.45 µg m–3, respectively. Accordingly, it is anticipated that the air pollutants will persist lower than the allowable limits in the surrounding buffer zone with control measures. Hence, the study also proposes effective measures to control dust pollution, together with a comprehensive description of the developed intelligent dust suppression systems those can be utilized at different dust-emission sources within the opencast mine for ecofriendly and clean mining
House Dust Mite Diversity and Abundance in the Human Dwellings of the Coal Mining Area of Dhanbad, India
No full textHouse dust mites (HDM) are one of the major causes of allergic diseases all over the world as well as in India. However, there is limited information on HDM diversity and abundance in the human dwellings of coal mining areas of India. Therefore, the objective of this study was to document the species richness, diversity, and abundance of HDM in the coal mining areas of Dhanabad, India in three dominant types of human dwellings. Pyroglyphidae family (36%) occupied the highest percentage among the isolated mites, followed by the Glycyphagidae (24–28%) family. The study, based on weekly sampling for two consecutive years, found significant differences in the house dust mites density and dust mite species composition among three types of houses. Thirteen dust mite species were identified including 8 species that were common in all types of houses. Three principal HDM, Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus was abundantly present in all the houses, Dermatophagoides farinae was very poor (0–9%), and Euroglyphus maynei was not found in any of the samples. The study recorded a higher abundance of Dermanyssus gallinae (poultry red mite), which is very rarely reported in the house dust sample
Coal mine overburden sand as resource material for making cement concrete
No full textThe growing demand for sand and the environmental impact of sand mining have prompted efforts to find sustainable alternatives. The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Government of India, advocates for the use of M-sand and recycled sand in construction to reduce dependency on natural sand. This study explores the potential of coal mine overburden (CMOB) sand as a substitute for natural sand in concrete production. Comprehensive tests, including chemical, petrographic, and physical analyses, were conducted to evaluate CMOB sand's suitability. Concrete mixes with CMOB sand were tested for strength, workability, and durability. Results reveal that CMOB sand can fully replace natural sand without compromising structural integrity. The concrete demonstrated excellent compressive strength, moderate workability, and strong resistance to carbonation, chloride penetration, and acid attacks. This highlights CMOB sand as an eco-friendly, effective alternative, reducing reliance on natural resources while ensuring durable concrete applications
Spatio-temporal variation, integrated quantification of source attribution, and health risk assessment of metal trace element contamination in coal mining soils of the Eastern Raniganj basin, India
No full textMetal trace element (TE) contamination from coal mining has severely impacted soil quality and human health in the Eastern Raniganj basin, India. To determine the most TE-polluted locations, potential TE sources, and associated health risks, this study integrated Positive Matrix Factorization (PMF) and Human Health Risk (HHR) models. Eighty-three surface soil samples were collected and analyzed for 12 TEs (Fe, Al, Cr, Co, Ni, As, Mn, Cd, Pb, V, Cu, and Zn) during the post-monsoon season. All measured TEs, except As, exceeded their geochemical background values, with mean Pollution Load Index of 2.13 and Ecological Risk Index of 529.9, indicating severe contamination. Pearson correlation analysis suggested a substantial positive correlation (r > +0.6) amongst Cr, V, Co, Ni, Cu, Pb, Zn, and PLI, indicating homologous characteristics. The PMF model distinguished five pollution sources, with coal mining being the primary contributor. The integrated PMF-HHR model highlighted that factor F5 (coal mining operations, contributing 32.3 % of total variance) posed risks to both children and adults, with a total hazard index of 4.92E+ 01 for adults and 3.50E+ 02 for children. Ingestion and dermal contact were key exposure pathways for adults, while all three pathways affected children. The total cancer risk for children (2.37E-01) and adults (3.40E-02) indicated carcinogenic risks (CR) and Cr being common in all factors increasing the CR in children via different routes. This study provides a robust framework for understanding the spatio-temporal TE variation and HHR in coal mining regions, serving a reference for future mitigation strategies
Integrated Evaluation Approach for Land Sustainable Management and Carrying Capacity of Clustered Mining Area in the Cement City of South India
No full textIn today's global context, sustainability is a crucial factor for both emerging and established industries, including mining. The sector significantly affects social, economic, and environmental dimensions, creating job opportunities that can boost regional income while also contributing to adverse environmental consequences such as air and water pollution, land degradation, and soil contamination. This study employs dynamic modelling and evaluation techniques to examine the interplay between social, economic, and environmental factors, focusing on the sustainability of mining in Ariyalur district, Tamil Nadu. The findings indicate that Ariyalur district has achieved a nearly optimal state of sustainability, with the sustainable development index rising from 0.880 in 2016–0.921 by 2030. The sustainable development index intends to provide a holistic view on the social, economic, and environmental status of the region. This increase underscores the potential for enhanced carrying capacity in the region, allowing for future mineral production without compromising sustainability. These results provide valuable insights for policymakers and industry stakeholders aiming to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship. The proposed model serves as a framework for evaluating sustainability across various industries, highlighting the importance of integrated approaches in resource management
3D Printed Iron Pyrite via Meniscus Confinement: A Promising Material for Photovoltaic Solar Cells
No full textThe meniscus-confined electrochemical 3D printing (MC-E3DP)
process has emerged as a novel approach for fabricating sub-
micron complex structures through localized electrochemical
deposition from salt solutions of desired materials. This study
reports, for the first time, the MC-E3DP fabrication of iron
oxide (Fe3 O4 ) thin films on indium tin oxide (ITO)-coated glass
substrates. The Fe 3 O4 films are characterized using XRD, Raman
spectroscopy, and UV–vis pectroscopy, confirming phase purity.
Subsequently, the Fe 3 O4 thin films are subjected to sulfurization
under varying conditions to synthesize iron pyrite (FeS 2 ) thin
films, a promising solar absorber material for photovoltaic
applications. The sulfurized FeS 2 thin films are analyzed for
phase purity using XRD, XPS, and Raman spectroscopy, while
FESEM was employed to study their morphology. UV–vis–NIR
spectroscopy reveals high absorption coefficients (∼10 5 cm−1
for wavelengths below 700 nm) and indirect bandgaps ranging
from 0.78 to 0.86 eV. All films exhibited n-type conductivity with
a charge carrier density of ∼10 19 cm−3 . Photoel ectro chemical studies demonstrated a stable photocurrent response, indicating their suitability for solar cell applications. The MC-E3DP process
offers exceptional control over structure and growth, making it
a promising technique for creating device architectures tailored
for specific application
Paleodepositional environment and source rock potential of Paleogene lignite and shale horizons in the Saurashtra Basin, Western India
No full textCoal is formed from ancient plants through biochemical and physicochemical stages. Lignite gives a low amount of energy
compared to higher rank coal. The Eocene Khadsaliya Formation lignite (Surkha mine) and shale (Khadsaliya mine) sediments
were collected to investigate their evolution, maturity, and source rock potential. The main objectives of this study were to
update and verify previous claim of possible hydrocarbon showings and to gain new insights about the petroleum potential
and paleodepositional conditions using different geochemical analysis approach. The primary methodology employed in this
study is the pyrolysis technique and complemented by petrographic analysis. Petrographic indices indicate that Khadsaliya
shale and Surkha lignite were deposited in limnic and limno-telmatic conditions, respectively, with slow subsidence rates
under mesotrophic hydrological condition. Significant concentration of corpogelinite indicates highly varying water table and
low oxygen levels during peat accumulation. At the same time, the presence of funginite, framboidal pyrite, and relatively
high sulfur in some studied samples shows marine water influence in the basin. The reflectance values (0.37%–0.57%)
reveal that organic matter (OM) in Surkha lignites is immature, while immature to marginally mature in Khadsaliya shale.
Furthermore, the pyrolysis data like Tmax (385°C–430 °C) and production index (PI 0.02–0.13) also indicate immature to
marginally mature OM. Oxygen index (OI) versus hydrogen index (HI), Tmax versus HI, and Total organic carbon (TOC)
versus S2 plots of lignite and shale of Khadsaliya Formation indicate that the OM is mainly type III kerogen and can act as fair to good source rock. The distribution of n-alkene/n-alkane doublets, o-Xylene, and 2,3-dimethylthiophene in the Py–GC pyrogram exhibits that most studied shale and lignite samples have type III kerogen and the capability to produce mainly gas
Seismic interpretation for comprehending rock characteristics in underground coal mines – some investigations
No full textProper scaling of roof falls in underground coal mines demands both extensive experience and skilled techniques. Roof falls are responsible for approximately 40% of mining fatalities. There are several causes for the triggering of roof falls, such as laminated strata, slip planes in the roof, moist roof conditions and clay bands, etc. However, the primary contributors are thin-layered strata and the plane of weaknesses present in the development galleries. The roof fall becomes even more hazardous in wide gallery openings and where there is a time lag in supporting the exposed strata. For the past 30 years, the CMRI-ISM RMR classification system has been extensively employed in underground coal mines to evaluate roof conditions and devise suitable support systems for both development and depillaring headings. Even though it is a very well-proven method of support design, it can be challenging at times to assess the risk of roof fall due to the lack of information on roof rocks. Detecting rock mass conditions at shallow depths can be made easier with the seismic refraction technique. The main objective is to acquire a better understanding of the roof condition affected due to solid blasting during the development of galleries, stress release through delamination, and the presence of weak zones in the coal mine roof. In this study, the P-wave velocity was determined along the gallery roof for different layer thickness, uniaxial compressive strength, structural features, density, and groundwater condition, and a relationship was developed. The roof condition was further correlated with respect to roof fall height, and a relationship was framed between P-wave velocity and roof fall height, and also between P-wave velocity and depth of the damage in the mine roof. If the roof fall height and depth of damage are known, the support design can be done accordingly to restrict the occurrence of roof falls. Support design nomogram with roof bolts was also suggested based on P-wave velocity. The outcome of this seismic study also aids in deciding site-specific support design