Preface

Mining is an ancient activity that began at the inception of civilization. On re-examining the mining activities of the present day, it is apparent that several transformations in mining techniques have occurred. This book examines the past, present, and future missions of mining. The growing needs of the mining industry have led to larger investments in the field of "mining science," which encompasses engineering, mechanics, chemistry, physics, and management. In the next few decades, "conventional methods" will be replaced by advanced and modern techniques of fast and safe excavations involving technology, machinery, and equipment.

Written by authors from Poland, India, Australia, Brazil, Turkey, Jordan, and Slovakia, this volume includes nine chapters over two sections. Section 1 examines current mining methods and techniques such as open-pit mining and hill mining. Other chapters in this section examine environmental degradation and reclamation due to surface coal mining as well as mining in hills and tunneling.

Section 2 includes chapters on future mining techniques such as shaft excavation, which is examined using a case study of the shaft-sinking experiences of Polish engineers at the Leon IV shaft of the Rydułtowy Mine, Poland.

Further, 'mineral resources' are hidden treasures that can give a boost to commercial activities, the industry as well as entrepreneurs. Activities related to these resources can generate employment and undoubtedly make a significant contribution to GDP growth for mineral-rich states and countries. As far as my optimistic understanding of S&T, R&D and mining system and subject as a whole goes, I believe that this book will be useful for all professionals of the mining industry.

This book is an important resource on mining, minerals, the environment, and engineering. Its applied research concepts and comprehensive content will be beneficial for researchers, students, policy formulators, and decision-makers in different areas of the mining industry. Mine operators and civil or excavation engineering professionals will also find the information presented herein useful and practical.

Compiling and editing a book on the past, present, and future of various mining techniques is a stupendous task, as the mining industry worldwide is extensive and varied. Therefore this book does not cover every aspect of mining; that is a challenge for a future book.

As an editor, I would like to thank those who assisted me with this book project, particularly my organization (CSIR-Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research) and all my colleagues, of which there are too many to name. I am indebted to them for all their help.

> **Dr. A.K. Soni** Chief Scientist, Mining Technology Group, Nagpur Research Centre, CSIR-Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research (CSIR-CIMFR), Nagpur, India

> > Section 1

Mining Techniques - Past

and Present

Section 1
