Mining, Geological and Geophysical Engineering

Methods of excavation of rock in surface and underground mines and construction, ranging from the empiricism of conventional blasting practice to the application of the fundamental mechanics of rock fracture.  Graduate-level requirements include a research project.

Fundamental concepts in the recognition, evaluation, and control of health and safety hazards encountered in mining operations include a review of engineering management responsibilities to control accidents, a review of federal regulations and standards affecting the industrial workplace, and instruction regarding the interaction of industrial hygiene, safety, fire protection and workers' compensation to control losses resulting from industrial accidents. Graduate-level requirements include a term paper.

This course will provide a basic understanding of the fundamental and practical aspects of solution mining. Graduate-level requirements include more rigorous and analytical homework.

There is a major change in the search for new sites to extract minerals and other natural resources located outside of the Earth. In particular, the Moon has been designated as the next destination for mining operations. This could comprise base metals, construction materials, rare earths, and water, the latter a resource that may create high expectations for its value for the off-world human settlements. The central aspects of this course are the mining methods and techniques for successful technical and economic production. Equipment and technologies specially designed for working under the unique conditions found on the Moon (low gravity, extreme temperatures, drastic changes from intense light to absolute darkness, high radiation, and the lack of atmosphere) are also considered in the design of the sites for pioneering mining operations on the Lunar surface or underneath. Open-source tools will be used to manage topographical maps and solid modeling shapes to produce production plans, economic assessments, and realistic animations representing proposed production projects.

This graduate seminar allows graduate students to research and exchange information on technical topics in the mine life cycle. The course will feature industry speakers presenting current challenges or technological innovations in the broad area of mineral resources. Students will further develop their skills in technical writing, learn to communicate with a professional audience, learn skills to influence others and gain a basic knowledge of the business and socioeconomic principles that impact the profession.