Strip Mining
Strip mining is used when coal is near the surface or the overburden (surface) is unstable. It used mainly for when the overburden is unstable, because coal near the surface is not common today, at least in West Virginia. This technique is commonly used for coal mining only.
Advantages:
- More coal can be produced in a shorter amount of time.
Disadvantages:
- Soil and other minerals are basically destroyed in the process.
- Natural habitats are disturbed.
Contour Mining
Contour mining leaves a contour trail in a mountain or hillside. It looks very much like large steps.
Advantages:
- Mainly rock and minerals are only mined in contour mining.
- Uses an open pit to obtain rock and minerals.
Disadvantages:
- Very difficult to restore land
- Expensive
Mountaintop Removal Mining
Mountaintop removal mining is used to access horizontal coal seams. Overburden is pushed to areas in higher elevation, to allow easier mining.
Advantages:
- Obtains more coal from different parts of a hill or mountain that cannot be reached anywhere else
Disadvantages:
- Harsh to the environment
No comments:
Post a Comment