The development of a modelling strategy for the simulation of fugitive dust emissions from in-pit quarrying activities: a UK case study

Abstract

Surface minerals extraction and processing operations can generate large quantities of fugitive dust that, when released in an uncontrolled manner, can cause widespread nuisance and potential health concerns for on-site personnel and surrounding communities. Typical fugitive dust emission sources may include minerals transfer points, conveyance, loading into crusher feed bins, haulage and blasting. To increase the understanding of the dispersion of fugitive dust from such activities it is necessary to develop suitable modelling strategies. The paper reports the results of a series of preliminary studies conducted using the UK Atmospheric Dispersion Modelling Software (ADMS3.1). A strategy was developed to model dust dispersion from blasting events and haul roads within a major UK limestone quarry. An analysis of the results confirmed the strong influence on the predicted dust dispersion of site-specific meteorological conditions and both the in-pit and surrounding terrain.