Changes in the molecular hydrogen concentration in an underground mine (Lovozero rare-metal deposit, Kola Peninsula)

Abstract

Long-term monitoring yielded significant variations in the hydrogen volume concentration in an underground mine at the developed Lovozero rare-metal deposit of the nepheline–syenite massif in the Kola Peninsula. The deposit is characterized by emission of natural combustible gases. Basic structural elements of the time series obtained include relatively stable and long ranges of low background concentrations, low- and medium-amplitude rises of various duration, and short-term, commonly high-amplitude peaks. The range structure is characterized by a general decreasing trend, a low intensity random noise component, and seasonal and off-seasonal periodic and other cyclical components. Periodic circadian and semidiurnal harmonics are the most pronounced.