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Geophysical assessment of physical and mechanical properties of rock masses in chrysotile asbestos mining
DOI: 10.21443/1560-9278-2026-29-2-228-236
Abstract. This study examines the application of a suite of geophysical methods for assessing the physical and mechanical properties of rock masses in an open-pit chrysotile asbestos mining operation. The investigation employs three complementary techniques: seismic profiling (determination of compressional and shear wave velocities), electrical resistivity tomography (mapping of bulk electrical resistivity), and induced polarization surveying. The key innovation is a developed algorithm for synergistic integration of these methods, wherein results from each technique serve as prior information for interpreting data from other methods, achieving a 15–20 % increase in reliability compared to single-method approaches. Based on measured seismic velocities, Poisson's ratio and dynamic Young's modulus have been calculated. Electrical resistivity tomography cross-sections are used to verify seismic boundaries and refine density models, while induced polarization data enable identification of zones correlating with weakened segments of the rock mass. The resulting geophysical cross-sections visualize the spatial distribution of electrical resistivity, chargeability, and elastic modulus throughout the rock mass. Results from integrated interpretation are presented as two-dimensional sections and correlate with borehole geological data. The methodology has been tested at the Zhitikara chrysotile asbestos deposit. The obtained geophysical data are transmitted to the operations department for incorporation into the technological parameters of drilling and blasting operations. The methodology is recommended for implementation in the mining production cycle.
Printed reference: Zuev P. I. Geophysical assessment of physical and mechanical properties of rock masses in chrysotile asbestos mining // Vestnik of MSTU. 2026. V. 29, No 2. P. 228-236.
Electronic reference: Zuev P. I. Geophysical assessment of physical and mechanical properties of rock masses in chrysotile asbestos mining // Vestnik of MSTU. 2026. V. 29, No 2. P. 228-236. URL: https://vestnik.mauniver.ru/v29_2_n108/06_Zuev_228-236.pdf.
