SELECTION OF AN EFFICIENT DEVELOPMENT SYSTEM FOR THE CHOVDAR GOLD DEPOSIT AND ITS JUSTIFICATION

Abstract

In this article, the main geological, technical, economic and ecological factors in the selection of the development system for the Chovdar gold deposit are investigated and optimal approaches are proposed. The Republic of Azerbaijan, as a country rich in mineral resources, is trying to take a greater place in world markets with its development in the mining industry. This area is a sector that has a significant impact on the economic development of the country and is of strategic importance. The Chovdar gold deposit, as one of the largest sources of the country's gold reserves, makes serious contributions to the country's economy. The Lesser Caucasus region, where the Chovdar deposit is located, has a geologically complex structure. The ores of the deposit are divided into oxide and sulfide compositions, and the methods of development of each of them require different approaches. The different mineralogical composition of the ores and the reserves at depth make it necessary to combine open and underground mining methods.
During the development of the deposit, various mining methods were analyzed in order to optimize technological processes, taking into account these geological differences. The open-pit mining method is preferred due to its high extraction rate and low initial investment costs. However, this method has disadvantages such as environmental impacts and increased waste. Underground mining provides for the extraction of deeper ore reserves with less environmental impact and waste. However, this method is accompanied by high capital costs and operational difficulties. Taking these factors into account, it is proposed to combine both methods in the most appropriate way.
The optimal approach proposed for the development of the Chovdar deposit is the integrated application of open-pit and underground mining methods. At the first stage, ore extraction by open-pit mining should be continued by moving to deeper sections and applying underground mining methods. This method will be both more profitable from an economic point of view and more environmentally sustainable. Also, this approach allows for increasing safety in the mining sector and optimizing operating costs.