Researchers from the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology have been actively working to develop more sustainable methods of mining.
On Wednesday, the institution announced that one of its doctorate graduates was developing mathematical models to assist surface mining companies with energy optimization through the use of renewable power sources. Amy McBrayer wants to provide miners with the knowledge needed to align their power consumption with the availability of renewable energy to reduce environmental damage.
“We are really trying to help mining companies make decisions on what technology to employ to increase efficiencies and meet demand,” said McBrayer.
She says that as mining companies work to reduce their carbon emissions the demand for raw materials is increasing around the globe, thereby making decarbonization efforts more difficult and important. McBrayer’s research has primarily taken place at a coal mine in Wyoming.
Her models involve running mines at full capacity during peak energy production times and slowing their production rate when less power is available. McBrayer says one size doesn’t fit all when it comes to renewable energy applications in the mining industry.
“The discussion is site specific; one mine may have excellent prospects for solar and wind, another may have access to geothermal. Hydrogen is also being looked at for some mines as a fuel for machinery and vehicles,” said Andrea Brickey, a professor of mining engineering and management at South Dakota Mines that McBrayer completed her doctorate degree under.
From the high-carbon steel in a surgeon’s scalpel to the critical minerals needed for smartphones and other gadgets, McBrayer and Brickey both say mining is a necessity for everyday life and that better power optimization strategies are needed in the industry now more than ever.
Recent graduate, Dr. Amy McBrayer is researching next-generation renewable energy strategies in Wyoming! Way to go Dr. McBrayer! Read the full story:https://t.co/TQu8nETAV6#southdakotamines #HardRockersDoBigThings pic.twitter.com/tLDl2eXhH7
— South Dakota Mines Graduate Education (@SDSMT_GradEdu) August 8, 2023
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Brickey says there will be a high demand for mining industry workers in the years to come as well, with many positions focused on environmental protection.
“New mines coming online are looking at the latest technology to meet production needs in a safer and more environmentally friendly manner,” said McBrayer.
A May report from the firm DBRS Morningstar said that Canada was an ideal country to invest in green mining infrastructure in because of its abundant hydropower, research expertise, mineral resources and skilled workers.
The United States has invested US$250 million in processing critical minerals necessary for electric vehicles and other low-carbon technologies through a joint partnership with Canada established this year.
rowan@mugglehead.com
