Sergo Ordzhonikidze Russian State Geological Prospecting University, Moscow, Russia:

V. V. Romanov, Acting Head of Chair of Geophysics, Candidate of Engineering Sciences, roman_off@mail.ru
K. S. Malsky, Acting Dean of Geophysical Faculty, Candidate of Engineering Sciences
A. I. Poserenin, Senior Lecturer
A. D. Karinsky, Professor, Doctor of Physico-Mathematical Sciences

The article describes the experience of using modern geophysical methods for studying the state of mine workings. In the course of a brief analysis of domestic and foreign literature, the capabilities of seismic, electrical and gravity exploration methods are shown. Out of them the methods that effectively solve the most of applied problems in mineral mining, namely, diagnosis and prevention of rock bursts, finding of hidden abandoned excavations, landslide mapping, finding and and forecasting of underflooding zones, adjustment of drilling and blasting charts, etc., are selected. These methods are the multi-component recording of microseismic oscillations, engineering seismic surveys using longitudinal and surface (pseudo-Rayleigh) waves, GRP. The physical principles of the methods, the features of field operation and data processing, as well as the geological and geophysical results are briefly considered. The article presents the conclusions on the absolute values of amplitudes of vibration acceleration and vibro-speed of microseisms in mine workings, prevailing frequencies of microseismic oscillations, as well as the shapes and magnitudes of the Nakamura spectra. The relationship is traced between the parameters of microseisms and weakened zones of fractured and watered rocks in mine workings. The geological and geophysical data obtained using engineering seismics are also analyzed. Based on the results, a layered structure and physical and mechanical properties of overburden rocks, depth of the groundwater table and sliding surfaces are determined in pitwalls of some surface mines. GRP had delineated underflooding and voids in underground mine workings. The proposed package of methods has proved its effectiveness, as well as completeness and reliability of the results obtained in several mineral deposits. Each of the methods, solving specific tasks, has contributed to the model of the current state of the fields being developed. Based on the data of geophysical studies, the recommendations are made for the safe and efficient mineral mining with regard to internal structure and physical properties of deposits.

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