Increasing efficiency of geological exploration for dimension stone

Until 2010, geophysical methods were occasionally used in Russia when prospecting and quarrying building stone (dimension stone etc.) deposits. This approach has changed in the past decade. In the present paper, the authors show how to determine the granitoid massif quality, degree of weathering and tectonics impact across the thickness of incoherent strata and strong overburden of granitoid massifs, a major source of ornamental and facing stone, using geologo-geophysical methods. Our methods were developed on the basis of close scientific and technological cooperation between geophysicists of the Institute of Geology at the Karelian Research Center, RAS, and geologists of the Mining Directorate at Vozrozhdenie Production Association. In 2016–2020, the methods were tested in prospecting and quarrying dimension stone deposits in Russian Karelia. Five deposits and three subsoil areas were studied. In 2018– 2019, the similar studies were conducted at Vandyshevo and Sultaevo granitic massifs in the Southern Urals. Four subsoil areas were studied. The described procedure enables more objective appraisal and efficient drilling. Available stone reserves are accurately estimated. In addition, the authors show the feasibility of integrated use of rocks from the massifs in production of dimension stone and crushed stone. The procedure is recommended for application in the above mentioned and other areas of Russia.

Sokolov S. Ya., Semenov A. A. Increasing efficiency of geological exploration for dimension stone. MIAB. Mining Inf. Anal. Bull. 2021;(5—1):152—161. [In Russ]. DOI: 10.25018/0236_1493_2021_51_0_152.

The work was carried out within the framework of R&D Topic No. AAAA-A18-118020290086-1.

Sokolov S. Ya.¹, Researcher, e-mail: svetsokolov@gmail.com;
Semenov A. A.¹, Chief Engineer, e-mail: a7emenov@yandex.ru;
¹ Institute of Geology, Karelian Research Center, Russian Academy of Sciences, Petrozavodsk, Russia.

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