As global mineral resources become increasingly scarce, copper polymetallic mines have attracted growing attention due to their unique economic value. These mines are primarily rich in copper, often accompanied by other economically significant non-ferrous metals such as lead, zinc, molybdenum, and gold. Typically located in geologically complex regions, these deposits pose unprecedented challenges for open-pit mining operations. The complexity of geological structures, the unpredictable depth of ore bodies, and the highly variable ore grades significantly increase mining costs and place a heavy burden on the environment. Additionally, unique geological formations, fluctuating groundwater levels, and increasingly stringent environmental regulations make open-pit mining in these deposits even more difficult.
Against this backdrop, the adoption of efficient and scientifically advanced technological solutions is essential to ensure the safety, economic feasibility, and environmental compatibility of mining operations. These factors are key to advancing the mining industry toward higher efficiency and sustainability. Below, we explore several critical technologies essential to open-pit mining in copper polymetallic mines.
Integrated Geological Exploration Technology
Open-pit mining of copper polymetallic ore deposits under complex conditions relies on comprehensive geological exploration techniques for ore bodies. The core of this technology lies in the acquisition and analysis of high-precision, multi-dimensional data to fully understand the spatial distribution of ore bodies, ore grades, and associated metal content. In the exploration of deeply buried ore bodies, three-dimensional seismic exploration technology is widely adopted. This technology precisely delineates ore body boundaries through seismic wave reflection characteristics, achieving an exploration resolution of less than 0.5 meters. Combined with electrical exploration, resistivity gradient distributions reveal the locations of underground fissure water channels in the mining area, with exploration depths reaching up to 500 meters, significantly enhancing the predictive capability of hydrogeological conditions. Drilling technology is a key method, with various types of drill holes designed, including vertical, inclined, and fan-shaped holes, to collect ore samples that provide direct evidence of grade distribution. In large-scale drilling, hole spacing is controlled between 25 and 50 meters, with sample analysis errors below 0.05%, ensuring the reliability of geological models.
Slope Stability Control Technology
The core of open-pit mining slope stability control technology lies in the integrated application of geological structure analysis, mechanical parameter measurement, and dynamic monitoring. Slope stability analysis must be based on geological exploration data, utilizing high-resolution three-dimensional imaging technology to identify the distribution of internal fractures and fault characteristics within the rock mass. Tensile and compressive tests are conducted to determine the distribution range of the rock mass’s tensile strength and compressive strength. Related data indicates that the compressive strength of rock masses in complex mining areas typically ranges from 50 to 120 MPa, while tensile strength is approximately 3 to 10 MPa, reflecting the significant influence of fracture development on slope stability.
Stratified Mining and Resource Utilization Technology
Stratified mining technology enhances ore recovery and associated mineral utilization through precise layer management and resource allocation. In open-pit operations, the mining depth of each layer is typically controlled within 5–15 meters, depending on ore body structure and equipment capability. Optimizing layer thickness increases single-layer mining efficiency while minimizing material mixing.
Environmental Protection Technologies During Mining
Environmental protection in mining operations focuses on minimizing disturbances to land, water, and air while promoting the reuse of waste materials.
The first step in mine-site ecological protection involves high-precision monitoring of soil and water. Spectral analysis is used to detect heavy metal content in soil, with an accuracy of up to 0.1 mg/kg. Water quality sensors provide real-time monitoring of pH levels, dissolved oxygen, and suspended solids in groundwater and surface water. Groundwater monitoring stations are typically deployed at a density of 5–10 per square kilometer to ensure comprehensive hydrological oversight.
For waste management, the stability of tailings storage is predicted using tailings stability modeling, which assesses the environmental impact of tailings deposits on surrounding areas.
Conclusion
The key technologies for open-pit mining in copper polymetallic deposits span high-precision geological exploration, fine slope stability control, stratified resource utilization, and advanced environmental protection. The combined application of these technologies significantly improves mining efficiency, resource utilization, and operational safety while minimizing environmental impact.
Given the increasingly complex geological conditions and stringent environmental requirements, the continued innovation and refinement of these technologies are critical for advancing the industry toward greater efficiency and sustainability. With the ongoing development of advanced exploration methods and intelligent mining equipment, the efficiency and safety of open-pit mining for copper polymetallic resources will continue to improve, contributing to the sustainable future of the global mining industry.
