Methodology for underground mining method selection

The mining method selection for underground mining is one of the most important decisions when designing a mine. This selection depends on the mining-geological, mining-technical and economic factors. The mining method selection for underground mining can be described as a multi-criteria decision-making process, as several factors are involved in the selection process. In this paper, a methodology for rational and optimal mining method selection for underground mining of metallic mineral resources has been developed. First, a rational selection of the four best-ranked mining methods for underground mining is performed using numerical methods (Nicholas' approach and the modified approach of Nicholas, i.e., UBC selection of mining method). This is followed by the optimal selection of underground mining method using multi-criteria decision-making methods (ELECTRE, PROMETHEE, AHP, and integrated AHP-PROMETHEE) and by comparing the obtained rankings, the optimal mining method is selected.