Study of thermo-mechanical effects of microwave irradiation for excavation and processing of rocks

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Excavation and processing of mineral bearing hard rocks presents technological challenges to mining industry. So far, miners have excavated such deposits using drilling and blasting method which is extremely time consuming and discontinuous. Even more challenging is the processing of such ores due to the high energy and wear intensity of the comminution equipment. The research proposed here aims at developing a new mining technique for excavation and mineral processing of hard rock deposits. This new technology is based on creating cracks within rock and ore by means of microwave induced heat. This microwave-assisted preconditioning method will reduce energy and wear in continuous mining machines and mineral processing equipment. The extensive experimental, analytical and numerical studies proposed in this research work will establish the engineering knowledge and tools required for building the next generation of continuous mining machines. Eventually, this research will help Canadian mining sector with lowering its operating costs, reducing its environmental footprint, improving its productivity and competitiveness.