Drilling applied to environmental studies and investigation

Investigative probes consist of drilling holes in the ground or rock, to capture information about the studied region. Thus, its application is highly advantageous for environmental studies.

Drilling can be used as study strategies during all phases of an environmental investigation, varying the type of Drilling to be carried out according to the project´s final purpose.

Would you like to know more about this topic? Read to the end!

What are the phases that make up environmental research?

Drilling can contribute in different ways to environmental studies, depending on the research phase in which they are used. Generally, its use occurs more frequently in the phase of confirmatory environmental investigation, due to the phase´s purpose. Check it out below:

Preliminary Evaluation

At the preliminary phase, environmental research is based on the definition of possible human interference that could trigger environmental damages.

The studies in this phase are developed with on-site visits, document collection and history of activities developed in the area and, if there is suspicion of environmental damage, a second evaluation phase is developed.

Confirmatory Environmental Investigation

In this phase we seek to confirm the suspicions that occurred in the previous phase, making use of analysis methods such as soil sampling through surveys at strategic points in the study area.

The Drilling methods more used in environmental studies are:

For soil drilling, the percussion method (SPT) is recommended, since it is capable of providing information about the compactness and consistency of soil layers;
For rocks, the most used method is the rotary Drilling by obtaining coring, reaching great depths and enabling analysis as to the degree of alteration, schistosity and quality index, for example.

Detailed investigation

In cases where environmental damage is confirmed in the study area, a detailed investigation is carried out to delimit the damage potential occurred and its zone of influence, as well as possible intervention measures aimed at the area rehabilitation.

How to analyze which type of Drilling should be applied to the environmental study?

Investigative studies through soundings enable knowing the area characteristics in relation to the water table level, the local geological composition in detail, as well as other specific information relevant according to the type of study.

Therefore, the choice of Drilling type to be used in an environmental study should be based mainly on the evaluation interest purposes.

Drilling focusing on environmental studies

The drilling of soils with a view to environmental collection follows ABNT NBR 15492 standard and can be carried out manually, with the percussion method, or using an auger, and can also occur mechanically, using a helical or rotary Auger.

The collection and storage of environmental soil samples is carried out according to ABNT 16434 standard, with the help of liner that ensures the preservation of possible liquid and volatile contaminants for future analysis.

In the case of water samples, the procedures follow ABNT 15847 and ABNT 16435 standards, aiming at greater control and lower contamination of both samples and soil and aquifer characteristics.

How can Core Case help you?

Our company aims to promote planet preservation and, to guarantee this commitment, we are always investing in innovations and technologies that favor a sustainable and responsible exploration!

Learn more about our products! We develop several models of boxes for storage of survey coring that are environmentally sustainable!

We have specialized service for mining companies, drilling, geotechnical, engineering, environmental and related companies.

Count on us!

References:

Horizonte Ambiental. Disponível em: https://horizonteambiental.com.br/sondagem-para-investigacao-ambiental/

FX Sondagens. Disponível em: https://www.fxsondagens.com.br/investigacao-ambiental

JS Sondagens. Disponível em: https://www.jssondagens.com.br/investigacao-ambiental.php

Geo pesquisa. Disponível em: https://www.geopesquisa.com.br/investigacao-ambiental.html

Geocoring. Disponível em: https://geocoring.com.br/investigacao-ambiental/

Suporte solos. Disponível em: https://www.suportesolos.com.br/blog/a-geologia-de-engenharia-ambiental-gea-e-as-sondagens-e-investigacoes-geologicas-e-geotecnicas/214/

Mapa da Obra. Disponível em: https://www.mapadaobra.com.br/capacitacao/tipos-sondagem-do-solo/

Geológicas. Disponível em: https://geologics.com.br/investigacao-ambiental/sondagem-ambiental/

Drilling applied to environmental studies and investigation Read More »

ESG is one of the main challenges for the mining sector in 2023

As well as in 2022, ESG remains one of the biggest challenges for the mining and metals sector.

As the issue becomes a priority for all stakeholders, the industry is adjusting to ESG factors with corporate strategies, decision-making and reports.

The difference in the long run will come to those who invest in all aspects: social, environmental and governance. The mining sector needs to go further and take a holistic view to gain the investor and community´s trust in which it operates.

Check out the main opportunities and challenges in ESG for the mining sector according to a study by Ernst & Young (EY).

Water management

76% of the respondents cited water management as the main challenge in ESG, and this result has an intense relationship with climate change and concerns about water scarcity that increase year by year.

The close relationship between organizations and government needs to be a priority for mining companies. Together, they can develop plans and initiatives that aim at care and conscious use of resource within organizations.

Circular economy

Circular economy is a concept that associates economic development with a better use of natural resources, through new business models and optimization in manufacturing processes with less dependence on virgin raw material, prioritizing more durable, recyclable and renewable inputs.

This concept goes beyond the scope and focus of waste and recycling management actions, aiming at a broad scope that includes from redesigning processes, products and business models, to optimizing resources use.

Traditionally, mining operations follow a linear process of searching, mining, processing and disposing. A circular economy example in this sector can be the creation of by-products from mining tailings, which can be used both in the mining sector and in other industries.

Biodiversity

Mining companies are under increasing pressure to assess biodiversity risks in their businesses. According to EY’s research, miners will need to demonstrate that mines are considering the long-term impact on biodiversity.

In addition to avoiding negative consequences, miners must also articulate their net positive impact. An action in this case may be preserving forests in the enterprise vicinity, creating parks, zoos and social projects to preserve the local biodiversity.

Data released with credibility and clarity

Organizations around the World Report ESG information through different initiatives and programs. One of the best known and used in Brazil is GRI (Global Reporting Initiative), which enables companies of any size, sector or country to disclose their economic, environmental and social impacts, explaining how they are managed internally.

These reports purpose is ensuring quality and comparability of information that can support the stakeholders decision-making, especially investors, in targeting and allocating capital.

Around the world, regulation of carbon emissions, sustainability and social governance is increasing, and in the mining sector this is no different.

Although regulation on risk management and sustainability reporting is only starting in many countries, there is still no global regulatory standard for mandatory reporting on ESG topics, which makes it difficult to compare companies in a global investment portfolio.

To resolve this issue, IFRS Foundation Trustees formed the ISSB (International Sustainability Standards Board), which aims to develop minimum standards of information and sustainability reports to be used for decision-making in the capital market.

By complying with the new standards and expectations, the mining sector will have an obligation to improve the availability, accuracy, reliability and clarity of the data presented to all.

Mine Closure

This is one of the great industry challenges, the management of existing assets.

A proactive approach to mine closure begins when planning is carried out since the beginning of the enterprise.

Designing a mine with closure in mind allows for continued engagement of owners, employees and communities, creating opportunities for progressive activities closure.

Mine closure impacts a wide range of stakeholders and expectations are rising about how miners mitigate these impacts, including socioeconomic effects on communities.

Improving diversity, equity and inclusion

The main problems include:

Female participation increase: companies still struggle to attract, retain and promote women, depriving them of the spotlight as well as the proven benefits of a more gender-diverse workforce;
Safety and support for the local community: companies need to change the way mining sites are built and operated to improve safety and support for all workers. For example, the construction of local kindergartens and schools could attract different people to mining and provide a positive contribution to the community.
Building a brand with purpose: mining must do more to build a brand aligned with the purpose and values of the next talent generation.

Health and Safety

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many companies have boosted worker health support, but the industry still needs to do more to improve psychological health and safety.

Fly-in fly-out employees, for example, face challenges getting support, a problem that has increased with pandemic-related seclusion and isolation. Bullying and harassment are also other points that are linked to ongoing issues around a lack of diversity, inclusion and respect.

The recently published standard ISO 45003:2021 is a globally recognized framework of how to manage and protect mental well-being at work. It can be an opportunity to reform the safety culture in mining.

Another factor to consider is reintegration into the workforce. Data show that 90% of people who suffer a physical injury return to work within 90 days, but only 50% of people who took leave because of mental health problems returned after six months.

Mining and metals companies need to develop an approach to reintegrate these workers, especially when work is a causal factor behind their illness. This can include, for example, reviewing workloads, creating a support network and ensuring a mentally safe workplace. As physical injuries at work can also trigger mental health challenges, offering physical and mental health support can help employees return to work and full health.

Core Case - a company aligned with ESG pillars

Since the conception, Core Case carries with it the ESG pillars. The company was born to produce cases for survey cores storage in 100% recycled plastic. This goal was achieved and over the 12 years of history, Core Case has become a reference in Brazil.

In addition to the sustainable cases for survey testimonies, Core Case develops actions that favor the development of projects related to corporate governance, environmental and social sustainability.

Know our initiatives: ESG – Core Case.

In addition, we emphasize that the role of Brazilian mining in implementing ESG practices can contribute significantly to an increase in the sector visibility and acceptance, which, despite being so relevant, are still widely criticized by society.

Reference

Top 10 business risks and opportunities for mining and metals in 2023. Ernest & Young.

Circular economy. Available in https://www.portaldaindustria.com.br/industria-de-a-z/economia-circular/#:~:text=Economia%20circular%20%C3%A9%20um%20conceito,mais%20dur%C3%A1veis%2C%20recicl%C3%A1veis%20e%20renov%C3%A1veis.

IFRS. Available in https://www.ifrs.org/groups/international-sustainability-standards-board/.

What is ISSB. Available in https://blog.waycarbon.com/2022/09/a-criacao-do-issb-e-a-unificacao-da-estrutura-de-relato-climatico/.

ESG is one of the main challenges for the mining sector in 2023 Read More »

Drilling applied to civil construction

To carry out a real estate project, whether it is for one’s own home or for the construction of commercial and tourist buildings, and so on, it is necessary that all the soil study stages be carried out with the highest possible level of excellence and care, and one of these studies is the drilling.

Drilling consists in a process of terrain recognition and characterization, being a very efficient and complete way to know the site characteristics where the construction will be executed.

According to Márcio Leão, geologist and post-doctorate in Geotechnics from the Federal University of Viçosa (UFV), “the purpose of a soil drilling is to provide representative geotechnical data about the terrain conditions that are relevant to the project under consideration”. 

Based on drilling methods used in civil construction it is possible to capture information such as:

identification of different soil layers;
classification of each layer;
water table level;
Strength of soil layers.

These data are crucial in the decision-making process regarding the project, allowing a more efficient, precise, safe and economical execution, based on information regarding the building positioning on the terrain and the best type of foundation, avoiding a series of pathologies to the construction work. (BELINCANTA,1985).

Drilling Types carried out in Civil Construction

Auger Drilling

Manual or mechanized, the most common are the clamshell (or auger) and helical.

This type of drilling consists of an excavation with a small diameter and reduced depth, whose purpose is to collect deformed samples to perform laboratory tests, making it possible to determine the profile of the soil under investigation.

Manual augers can also be mentioned in this category.

This method is generally simpler than other types, fast and economical, but is not as effective in depth, as it only penetrates soil layers above the water level and with low strength.

Another method within this category is the Mechanical Auger:

A method widely used on construction sites because it is a clean process that does not produce mud, is easy to transport and mobilize on site, requires a small number of operators, and is relatively quick to execute.

Auger drilling is widely used in sanitation and road construction.

SPT percussion drilling

Also called SPT (Standard Penetration Test) is the most widely used process to determine soil type, strength and water level.

It is a method of soil investigation where the drilling advance is done by means of an auger or washing, and a sampler is used to measure the indexes of resistance to penetration, obtain samples, determine the water level, and perform various tests in situ.

The number of blows required to drill into the rock allows the strength of the soil to be determined.

SPT drilling is widely used in engineering works.

Rotary Drilling

It is the drilling type that presents the highest cost, but it is the drilling with the most advantages, since it allows the analysis of greater depths and several other types of soils to be drilled, besides being of easy transportation.

It consists in the use of a mechanized set for drill rock masses and obtain samples of rocky materials with a cylindrical shape, named as core. It can also sample soils and other materials.

It is one of the most widely used methods to qualify rock masses.

Data acquired from drilling

After presenting the main types, we can say that drilling

Provide proper geotechnical data for all aspects of an economical, safe and reliable design of foundations, earthworks and temporary works, including an assessment of the effects of any previous uses of the site;
Assesses problems associated with construction of the site arising from subsurface conditions, including temporary works, excavations, and drainage;
Considers changes in the stability, drainage, or other geotechnical aspects of the site and surrounding buildings;
Compares alternative construction methods and their impacts on the ground.

Do you see how drilling is an essential practice for civil construction?

Performing this step in your project brings financial security, efficiency to the processes, reduces risks during the work, and ensures safety for those who will buy/rent/frequent that environment after it is finished.

Count on Core Case in your projects.

Get to know our solutions!

References

Core Case. https://corecase.com/br/en/core-case-blog/

Concrete Digital. https://digital.concreteshow.com.br/na-obra/sondagem-de-solo-para-construo-civil-dicas-e-informaes

Alcance Engenharia. https://alcancejr.com.br/sondagem-de-solos/

Lajes Contim. https://www.lajescontim.com.br/construc-a-o/perguntar-o-que-e-sondagem-na-construcao-civil.html
Revistas Braz Cubas. https://revistas.brazcubas.br/index.php/pesquisa/article/view/683/719

Drilling applied to civil construction Read More »

What is drilling in mining and what are the main types

In order to understand natural massives, information is required by means of drilling (samplings and assays) that enable identifying different soil/rock types and mineralogical, structural, mechanical strength and permeability characteristics.

The sampling performed shall represent the natural massive surveyed, enabling essential geological and geotechnical information achievement to develop a project.

If you are interested at this topic, keep on reading this material, let´s approach the following topics:

What is Drilling in Mining
Drilling Types
How to choose drilling type for your project

Shall we go?

What is Drilling in mining

Drilling is executing bores in soil or rock, and sample/core, product generated in drilling, provides information to the region surveyed. It is a very significant stage, for several projects, in civil construction, hydrology, mining or geotechnics, for instance.

Drilling is required to:

Water catchment projects by means of artesian wells;
Constructions that need better region soil knowledge;
Studies related to oil and natural gas;
Ore deposit survey (greenfield or brownfield);
Among others.

Drilling Types

There are several drilling types and each one has a specific function.

Main drilling types include :

Auger drilling;
SPT percussion drilling;
Rotary drilling;
Mixed drilling;
Geophysical drilling;

Auger drilling

It is a survey method that uses auger as drilling tool. Auger is a soil sampler type comprised by sharp blades, that can be comprised by two pieces, in convex (shell auger) or single shape, in helical shape.

This drilling type is widely used in sanitation and road works.

SPT percussion drilling

Also known as SPT (Standard Penetration Test) drilling, it is a soil survey method which drilling progress is performed through auger or washing, and a sampler driving is used to measure penetration strength indexes, achieve samples, assess water level and execute several assays in situ.

Strike number required to drill the rock enables soil strength assessment. This drilling type is widely used in engineering works.

Rotary drilling

It is a motomechanized set designed to drill rocky massives and achieve rocky material samples with cylindrical shape, core calls. Soils and other materials can also be sampled.

Through rotary drilling, it is possible to achieve great subsoil depths.

It is one of the most widely used methods to rate rocky massives.

Mixed drilling

Mixed drilling, as per its name, is a joint rotary drilling and SPT drilling usage; It is a method that uses percussion drilling to soil section and rotary drilling to rocky section.

Geophysical drilling

Unlike options above mentioned, geophysical drilling does not take soil or rock samples of survey area. The measurements are indirect through seismic, electrical, electromagnetic, potential (magnetic and gravimetric), radiometric, geothermal surveys and methods, etc.

This method can be used to mining, geotechnics and artesian well projects, for instance.

How to choose the best drilling method

The drilling type to be applied in your project can be set forth according to several factors, including:

Region soil/rock type;
Place infrastructure, access roads and accessibility;
Ore type to be surveyed;
Companies operating in region of interest;
Bibliography available of the area where the project is to be developed;

It is worth noting that soil drilling/samples must be stored in safe and contamination-free places. In case this action is executed correctly, all work performed previously can be impacted.

The drilling provides basic data that will supply work conceptions foundation and underground and outdoor excavations, slope cut angle, work costs in different project stages, stability calculation, recovery and remedy sizing of contaminated lands, etc. Thus, they are essential for a reliable project and that is concerned with generated data quality.

Rely with Core Case, we have the optimal solution to assist in soil drilling and sample storage for your project.

REFERENCES

Drilling Manual – ABGE 2013

Soil drilling types: what is your work best methodology? Access at: https://blog.apl.eng.br/tipos-de-sondagem-de-solo-qual-a-melhor-metodologia-para-sua-obra/ Mining Drilling. Access at: https://www.geoscan.com.br/blog/sondagem-na-mineracao/

Mining drilling: Methods and Equipment. Access at: https://sagaconsultoria.com/sondagem-na-mineracao-metodos-e-equipamentos/

What is drilling in mining and what are the main types Read More »