Characterising and mapping of wind transported sediment associated with opencast gypsum mining
Date
2008-03
Authors
Van Jaarsveld, Francis
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University
Abstract
This study aims to provide a practical tool for the prediction and management of dust
generated by the activities of an opencast mining operation. The study was conducted
on opencast gypsum mines in the semi-arid environment of the Bushmanland, 90 km
north of Loeriesfontein in the Northern Cape Province from April 2000 to October
2007. The vertical and horizontal components of wind transported sediment were
sampled and a dust settling model was designed to predict the settling pattern of dust
generated by opencast mining operations. The model was applied to soil samples
collected from an area surrounding a mine. The influence sphere of the mining
operation was predicted by the application of the model and then mapped. Once the
influence sphere is mapped, the dust influence can be managed with the aid of an
onsite weather station. By further applying the predictions based on climatic data, the
influence sphere can be modelled. The model is not only applicable to the planning
phase of an opencast mine to plan the position of dust sensitive areas like the living
quarters, office buildings and workshops etc., but also to indicate the historical impact
that a mining operation had once a quarry on an active mine is worked out and
rehabilitated or a mine is closed. The model application can also aid with the
explanation and visual or graphic representation of the predicted impact of planned
mining operations on communities or neighbouring activities to them and thus avoid
later penalties.
Description
Thesis (MSc (Earth Sciences))--Stellenbosch University, 2008.
Keywords
Gypsum mines and mining -- Dust control -- South Africa -- Bushmenland, Strip mining -- Dust control -- South Africa -- Bushmenland, Mine dusts -- South Africa -- Bushmenland, Wind erosion -- South Africa -- Bushmenland, Dissertations -- Geology, Theses -- Geology