Research Center for Geomechanics and Mining Problems, Empress Catherine II Saint-Petersburg Mining University, Saint-Petersburg, Russia

Yu. I. Kutepov, Head of Laboratory, Doctor of Engineering Sciences, Professor
Yu. Yu. Kutepov, Leading Researcher, Candidate of Engineering Sciences, Kutepov_YuYu@pers.spmi.ru
N. A. Kutepova, Chief Researcher, Doctor of Engineering Sciences
A. N. Shabarov, Director, Doctor of Engineering Sciences

Reclamation of large-scale mining technical facilities is a complex and costly process that requires a comprehensive approach and careful planning. In this article, the authors propose an effective and economically viable solution to the problem of reclaiming deep quarries: placement of various production waste in the excavated space. This approach allows elimination of open mined-out voids by filling them with solid or liquid materials, thereby reducing withdrawal of land for accommodation of new dumps and tailings storage facilities. The study develops a typology of the natural–technical quarry–backfill systems, aimed at determining the category of complexity regarding stability of quarry slopes when industrial waste is placed in the quarries using both dry and hydraulic methods. Several key factors were considered for categorizing the natural–technical systems by complexity, including the criticality of the objects, their structural geology, geotechnical and hydrogeological conditions, geomechanical behavior of slopes, and the type of material placed in the minedout void.  The typology proposed by the authors allows a more accurate assessment of risks associated with slope instability, and facilitates well-founded decision-making in the preliminary project phase. It can serve as a framework for developing rational waste storage technologies, preparing assignments for geological surveys, and creating effective safety monitoring programs. The article emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive approach to ensure stability of natural–technical systems and safety of operations in influence zones of filled quarries. The results of the study can be utilized by design institutes and research organizations engaged in stability and reclamation of mining excavations.

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