Abstract:

CIM Connect 2025 – Abstract Submission

Caitlin Sirois, P.Geo. (Nutrien), and Kelsey Kacso, P.Geo., PMP (Nutrien)

Presentation Proposed Title:
Non-Destructive Evaluation of Aging Potash Mine Shafts: Innovative Techniques and Challenges

Abstract:

As our potash mines in Saskatchewan age beyond 50 years, ensuring the structural integrity of the shafts becomes increasingly critical. Traditional evaluation methods often involve intrusive techniques that can pose substantial risks, such as flooding and compromising the integrity of the mine. This presentation will explore a suite of non-destructive methods being employed and tested to assess the condition of aging potash mine shafts safely and effectively.

We will delve into various innovative techniques, including Spectral Analysis of Surface Waves (SASW), Impact Echo (IE), Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR), and Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR). These methods have the potential to provide comprehensive evaluations without the need to penetrate the shaft liners, thus maintaining the mine's safety and operational continuity. However, baseline assessment of the shafts poses unique challenges. A significant issue is the lack of historical records or the incompleteness of existing records regarding the construction and previous evaluations of the shafts. This information gap makes it difficult to create accurate baseline conditions necessary for more complex assessments and repairs.

The presentation will discuss how these challenges are addressed by the deployment of non-destructive methods. For example, validating current shaft conditions against partial records, correlating non-destructive test results with historical data, and developing new records where none previously existed. Additionally, the presentation will address the unique challenges encountered when applying these methods in our potash mine shafts: the presence of brine, the circular geometry of the shaft lining with minimal distinguishing features, and the extreme depths involved all create significant hurdles. By sharing our experiences and insights, we aim to discuss potential solutions and improvements to current methodologies, facilitating better maintenance and management of aging potash mine infrastructure.

Join us to gain a deeper understanding of these non-destructive evaluation techniques, their practical applications, and the hurdles that must be overcome to ensure the safety and longevity of potash shafts.

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Ms. Caitlin Sirois