Achieving Nitrogen Dioxide Reductions in Mechanized Underground Mining

Abstract

Nitrogen dioxide is a notable workplace contaminant in many types of underground mines, both due to its production in fossil fuel combustion and blasting, as well as for its human health effects. In some jurisdictions, permissible limits have reduced by over 90%. Although it is recognized that non-diesel technologies such as battery electric equipment are shaping to eventually dominate in underground ore haulage, in the near-term many mines face the challenge of achieving safe and healthy workplace conditions while still using diesel engines. Where initially deemed unattainable, Hatch have demonstrated that order of magnitude reductions in underground nitrogen dioxide levels can be achieved through: emission control technologies initially designed for surface industries, improvements in burners for mine heating, and selection of lower emission explosives.