Seismic–Geomechanical Control of Water-Impervious Strata in Potassium Mines

Abstract

The safety control system for water-soluble mineral mining in complicated ground conditions is presented. The system is based on geomechanical interpretation of surface and underground seismic monitoring data. Mathematical modeling of water-impervious strata takes into account the whole set of geological and geotechnical factors determined from the seismic observations. It is shown that the seismic–geomechanical monitoring allows stress state control in waterproof strata, which ensures prompt decisionmaking on extra protection and minimizes accident risks.