In the heart of Saudi Arabia, researchers are unearthing a new frontier in sustainable mining practices, and it’s not buried deep within the earth, but rather, in the innovative use of basalt fibers. Mohammed A. Hefni, a researcher from the Mining Engineering Department at King Abdulaziz University, is leading the charge, exploring how these fibers can revolutionize mine backfilling, a critical process in the energy sector.
Mine backfilling is a crucial part of modern mining operations, providing structural support and environmental stability. Traditionally, cemented paste backfill (CPB) has been the go-to material, but Hefni and his team are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Their recent study, published in the journal Scientific Reports, delves into the potential of basalt fibers (BF) to enhance the mechanical, rheological, and thermal properties of CPB.
The research is a game-changer for the energy sector, where mining operations are often located in remote or environmentally sensitive areas. By improving the properties of CPB, basalt fibers could help reduce the environmental footprint of these operations, making them more sustainable and economically viable.
So, how do these tiny fibers pack such a punch? According to Hefni, “The addition of basalt fibers to CPB significantly improves its strength and stability. For instance, incorporating 12-mm fibers at a dosage of 1% boosted the uniaxial compressive strength by up to 35% after just 7 days of curing.” This enhanced strength could lead to reduced binder content, lowering costs and environmental impact.
But the benefits don’t stop at strength. The study also found that basalt fibers can improve the rheological properties of CPB, making it easier to handle and place. “The yield stress of the CPB doubled when we added 18-mm fibers at a dosage of 1%,” Hefni explains. This means that the material becomes more resistant to deformation, improving its performance in mine backfilling applications.
Moreover, the thermal conductivity of the CPB was reduced by nearly 36% when reinforced with 12-mm fibers at a dosage of 0.50%. This could be particularly beneficial in deep mining operations, where heat management is a significant challenge.
The implications of this research are vast. As the energy sector continues to evolve, the demand for sustainable and efficient mining practices will only grow. Basalt fiber-reinforced CPB could be a key player in this transition, offering a more robust, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly solution for mine backfilling.
Looking ahead, Hefni and his team are optimistic about the future of basalt fibers in mining. “We believe that this technology has the potential to significantly improve the sustainability and economics of mining operations,” Hefni says. “And we’re just scratching the surface of what’s possible.”
As the world looks to the energy sector to power a sustainable future, innovations like basalt fiber-reinforced CPB could be the key to unlocking a new era of responsible and efficient mining. The study, published in Scientific Reports, is a testament to the power of innovation and the potential of basalt fibers to shape the future of the energy sector.