Monday, February 28, 2011

Geological Engineering


Geological Engineer is a combination of study of geology and engineering in a way that makes a lot of importance. This study shows how human beings can put the earth to safe and efficient use. For instance, they learn how to assess a site on which a tunnel, dam, or road may be built. Geological engineers also examine ways to search for and harvest energy resources. They also discover various methods to protect the earth while still exploiting it through cautious industrial practices.
Geological engineering is very much field oriented. There are many study programs that involve students in laboratory and computer works. The sensible nature of geological engineering using your knowledge of the earth to solve engineering problems can make for a gratifying and exciting career.
Geological engineering in the mining covers a number of engineering specialties such as geotechnical engineering, land remediation, rock mechanics, groundwater hydrology and engineering geology. The main duties of this job basically include ensuring geotechnical activities are conducted safely in order to provide a safe working environment for employees and contractors in fitting with company standards and government legislation.
Geological Engineers may perform the following tasks in the mining sector:

·         Investigate the engineering feasibility of planned new developments involving soil, rock and groundwater;
·         Plan and undertake site investigations for proposed major engineering works such as bridges, dams and tunnels;
·         Design measures to correct land contamination and salination;
·         Design major structures in rock such as tunnels, basements and shafts;
·         Supervise construction and performance of major engineering works involving the ground;
·         Work out strategies to control landslides and areas of potential instability;
·         Coordinate of multi-disciplinary study teams, and
·         Perform computer analyses, use computer databases and generate computer-aided designs.

The study of geological engineering is the application of the geologic sciences to engineering practice for the purpose of assuring that the geologic factors affecting the location, design, construction, operation, and maintenance of engineering functions are recognized and adequately provided for. They also investigate and give geologic recommendations, analysis, and design associated with human development. The main area of the engineering geologist is significantly in the realm of earth-structure interactions of how the earth processes impact human made structures, and other human activities.





Thursday, February 24, 2011

Bentonite


Bentonite were first commercially mined and developed in the Rock River area during the 1880s. Some people moisten bentonite to be a perfect lubricant for squeaky wagon wheels. Another, early Americans found bentonite crucial to their lives. In 1920s, the first processing plant in Wyoming was built during this period. Since that the time many other processing plants have been built for the purpose of processing Wyoming sodium bentonite. In 1994, Wyoming’s bentonite industry produces over 4 million ton, and that was really amazing with 644 mine and mill employees, and 240 contractors. 

In addition, exploration for new bentonite beds is normally gifted with auger bit drilling. Once the auger drill stem reaches the soft bentonite it sinks very fast, which signifies to the driller that bentonite has been found. The auger flights are then withdrawn and the "sticky" bentonite is sampled from the flights for quality analysis. Bentonite is mined by surface "open pit" methods. Various types of heavy equipment including bull dozers and rubber-tired scrapers are used to remove the shale rock overlying the bentonite.

Topsoil, as well as the underlying material, is cautiously removed and stockpiled. These "overburden" materials as they are called will be placed back and reseeded once the bentonite has been removed. The bentonite which is bare during this process can be as little as 1 1/2 feet or as much as 10 feet thick. This is the material which is mined and processed.

Many bentonite manufactures prefer to "field dry" the exposed bentonite prior to hauling it to the processing plants. This is accomplished by plowing while taking advantage of the low humidity and sunny days to dry the bentonite prior to its removal. The moisture level prior to "field drying" can exceed 30%. This process will usually extract 15 to 20% of the moisture from the clay prior to hauling.

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Mining Careers at Gold


Gold Recruitment provides dependable, up to date, and pertinent career information and job description for aspiring professionals who are making the right decisions about their future career path.

Whether you are searching for detailed information on a particular occupation, our friendly website covers many popular careers throughout Australia mainly in the field of construction:



We are looking for a qualified Surveyor in the mining sector. Field Assistant/Geotechnical Assistant or Mine Surveyor. As an ambitious "All Rounder", you are willing to stretch yourself to get a "Foot in the Mining Door" with this elite crew, however you will be highly rewarded with:
- SUPERB family friendly ROSTER
- competitive package + meals, accomo, exceptional standard of living
- FIFO options - Brisbane, Rockhampton, Mackay
- fantastic CV building opportunity
Field Assistant / Geotechnical Assistant / Mine Surveyor position details:
- coordinate & manage survey controls as part of mining team
- undertake daily surveying requirements & process of survey data
- autonomous fieldwork liaising with peers to optimize production
- ensure survey stocks are up to date & general maintenance of survey gear
Field Assistant / Geotechnical Assistant / Mine Surveyor skills we need:
- physically fit, active & capable of autonomous fieldwork
- GPS & 4WD capabilities
- relevant qualifications or demonstrated interest - Surveying/Mine Surveying
- suit civil site or earthworks exp with mechanical aptitude
- analytical skills & attention to detail
- highly focused, motivated, self directed
- high regard for OH&S



Whether you are an experienced Recruitment Consultant or have the ability to demonstrate recruitment sales potential, networking ability and a desire to succeed - then here is your GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY! 
* Surf before work - TICK
* Work in thongs occasionally - TICK
* Out of the "pressure zone" with a non corporate, laid back environment - TICK
* High earning potential - earn as much as you want, reflective of what you put in - TICK
* Competitive remuneration + fantastic commission structure - TICK
* Opportunity to demonstrate your flair, passion & potential for sales - TICK
* Ocean views from stunning Sunshine Coast office - TICK TICK TICK!
Ticked enough boxes?
We are an Australian company committed to achieving gold-star results for our employees, clients and candidates. We pride ourselves on our dedication to placing good people into golden jobs and our passion about what we do has made us a stand out in our field. Our Sunshine Coast office is expanding and we need a Senior Recruitment Consultant capable of rolling with us and growing our business in the Mining Sector developing and maintaining strong and effective relationships with a new, and existing, client base.
Senior Recruitment Consultant skills needed:
- Proven sales history - ideally in recruitment
- Demonstrable networking ability
- Mining sector exp advantageous, not essential
- Strong client development focus
- Confident approach, energetic, motivated self starter
- Upbeat nature, exceptional communicator
- Ability to work autonomously, driven with desire to succeed


A prestigious world class group has firmly established a standard of excellence within the industry and seeks an experienced Mining Project Manager to parallel the needs of a successful mining group as they undergo high profile mining expansion. With a demonstrable CPP or engineering background and experienced in project management, coordination and administration, you will contribute to the accomplishment of a successful high performance company rewarding as follows:
- generous remuneration + bonus incentives
- FIFO Mon-Fri roster
- accommodation provided
- contract position / expanding career opportunities
- Central Qld / Bowen Basin location
Project Manager job details:
- manage mining project formalities from project start
- instigate /prepare site OH&S procedures
- project co-ordination, administration & management of ongoing mining activities
- high level liaison / solid working relationships
Project Manager skills we need:
- 5-10 yrs exp CPP and/or Engineering exp
- tertiary qualification / equivalent
- able to effectively manage frontline issues, proactive approach, clear dedication to safety first
- exceptional communication skills


A prestigious world class group has firmly established a standard of excellence within the industry and seeks an experienced Senior Planner/Planning Engineer to parallel the needs of a successful organization. With a demonstrable background in planning, project controls and multi disciplined experience as a Senior Mining Engineer, you will contribute to the accomplishment of a successful high performance company rewarding as follows:
- generous & industry competitive remuneration package
- contract role
- expanding career opportunities
- world class multi-project delivery model
- central-based business management centre
- easy Brisbane location
Senior Planner position details:
- overall responsibility for direction & delivery of Mine Planning & Project Controls function
- management of coal mine project scope & deliverables
- manage & direct multiple projects/Planning Engineers team providing mentorship & guidance
- supervise cost control, project estimates & schedules
Senior Planner, skills needed:
- tertiary qualifications - Project Management, Engineering or equivalent
- proven abilities preparing, presenting & interpreting mine plan models
- demonstrable exp in project controls, planning, cost control management
- proven abilities in driving team to succeed, exceptional leadership skills
- superior communication & relationship building skills

Monday, February 21, 2011

Environmental Science / Engineering


Environmental engineering applies the principle of improving the environment (air, water, resources), and providing healthy water, air, and land for human habitation and for other organisms, and to wash polluted sites.
Environmental engineering involves water management and air pollution control, recycling, waste disposal, radiation protection, industrial hygiene, environmental sustainability, and public health issues as well as knowledge of environmental engineering law. It also includes studies on the environmental impact of proposed construction projects.
Environmental engineers conduct hazardous-waste management studies to determine the importance of hazards, and establish regulations to thwart mishaps. They also devise municipal water supply and industrial waste water treatment systems as well as deal with both local and global environmental issues such as effects of acid rain, global warming, ozone depletion, water pollution and air pollution from automobile exhausts and industrial sources.
Environmental engineering program in most universities follow the Department of Civil Engineering or The Department of Chemical Engineering. Moreover, engineers frequently obtain specialized training in law and utilize their technical expertise in the practices of Environmental engineering law.

The Duties of Environmental Science Engineer
Environmental professionals can be involved in many different tasks within the minerals industry. These include:
·         Developing ways of minimizing harm to the environment, based on the study and assessment of processes, environmental legislation and physical, biological, social and cultural environments;
·         Undertaking laboratory work, analyzing pollutants, identifying their sources and assessing their effects;
·         Monitoring and evaluating the environmental and social impacts of engineering projects and development activities;
·         Rehabilitating land, water and air affected by mining;
·         Researching matters of immediate and long-term importance to governments and the communities such as the impact of land clearing on native animals and the impact of waste products on waterways;
·         Negotiating and assisting in the development of policy, strategy and codes of practice on environmental management;
·         Conducting environmental audits within industry and government departments;
·         Researching and developing new technologies and techniques to improve the environmental acceptability of engineering projects;
·         Designing and operating processes to treat waste;
·         Working with occupational health experts to ensure a hazard-free working environments;
·         Preparing research reports on approaches to environmental management in new and existing engineering projects, and
·         Effectively communicating relevant issues to technical staff, managers, regulatory authorities, public interest groups and the public.

Thursday, February 17, 2011

Great Mining: Almandine


Almandine is a species of mineral belonging to the garnet group. The garnet group is a small group of closely related mineral. To give you the idea that the members of the garnet group are isomorphous, and some of them freely interact.

Almandine is incorrectly known as almandite sometimes. They differ from only to some extent in physical properties, and some of them may be so similar that they are impossible to impossible to differentiate from one another without x-ray analysis. The most universal members are: Pyrope, Almandine, Spessartine, Grossular, andradite, and Uvarovite.

Almandine is commonly viewed through the spectroscope in a strong light. It generally shows three characteristic absorption bands. In addition, it is an iron alumina garnet, deep red in color close to purple. It is frequently cut with a convex face known as carbuncle.

Almandine is very essential in making garnet paper in some industrial companies. Most of garnet paper is made from almandine, and only small amount is made from Pyrope. Almandine also makes a fine gemstone when transparent and colored agreeably when transparent. Well-formed Almandine crystals are very famous among mineral collectors. 

Almandine is the most common garnet. It is widely used in the gem trade. Although only a small amount of this mineral is suitable for gem use. More gems are faceted from almandine than nay other kind of garnet. In fact, some almandine garnets display asterism when polished as cabochons. Another, almandine commonly occurs embedded in mica schists. It also occurs in large and single crystals, which are caused from the breakup of the mica schist due to weathering.

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Mining Careers at Gold


Gold Recruitment provides dependable, up to date, and pertinent career information and job description for aspiring professionals who are making the right decisions about their future career path.

Whether you are searching for detailed information on a particular occupation, our friendly website covers many popular careers throughout Australia mainly in the field of construction:



A prestigious world class group has firmly established a standard of excellence within the industry and seeks an experienced Mining Project Manager to parallel the needs of a successful mining group as they undergo high profile mining expansion. With a demonstrable CPP or engineering background and experienced in project management, coordination and administration, you will contribute to the accomplishment of a successful high performance company rewarding as follows:
- generous remuneration + bonus incentives
- FIFO Mon-Fri roster
- accommodation provided
- contract position / expanding career opportunities
- Central Qld / Bowen Basin location
Project Manager job details:
- manage mining project formalities from project start
- instigate /prepare site OH&S procedures
- project co-ordination, administration & management of ongoing mining activities
- high level liaison / solid working relationships
Project Manager skills we need:
- 5-10 yrs exp CPP and/or Engineering exp
- tertiary qualification / equivalent
- able to effectively manage frontline issues, proactive approach, clear dedication to safety first
- exceptional communication skills



We are looking for an electrical designer who can represent a superior, multi national, design and construction group with multiple large scale projects. Based on the Fraser Coast, our clients rail division seeks an experienced Electrical Designer to contribute to the design and preparation of electrical engineering for multiple rail engineering projects.
Electrical Designer role requires you to:
- apply electrical expertise contributing to design of multiple rail engineering projects
- contribute to designing & executing timely solutions to design issues
- provide technical support & excellence with acute attention to detail
Electrical Designer applicants will ideally possess:
- 5+yrs Design exp, electrical databases
- Superior AUTOCAD skills
- Relevant Design / Drafting / Engineering qualification
- Excellent communication & documentation skills with a strong eye for detail
- Effective time management skills & able to work autonomously


A prestigious world class group has firmly established a standard of excellence within the industry and seeks an experienced Senior Planner/Planning Engineer to parallel the needs of a successful organization. With a demonstrable background in planning, project controls and multi disciplined experience as a Senior Mining Engineer, you will contribute to the accomplishment of a successful high performance company rewarding as follows:
- generous & industry competitive remuneration package
- contract role
- expanding career opportunities
- world class multi-project delivery model
- central-based business management centre
- easy Brisbane location
Senior Planner position details:
- overall responsibility for direction & delivery of Mine Planning & Project Controls function
- management of coal mine project scope & deliverables
- manage & direct multiple projects/Planning Engineers team providing mentorship & guidance
- supervise cost control, project estimates & schedules
Senior Planner, skills needed:
- tertiary qualifications - Project Management, Engineering or equivalent
- proven abilities preparing, presenting & interpreting mine plan models
- demonstrable exp in project controls, planning, cost control management
- proven abilities in driving team to succeed, exceptional leadership skills
- superior communication & relationship building skills


A prestigious world class group has firmly established a standard of excellence within the industry and seeks an experienced Senior Planning Engineer to parallel the needs of a successful organization as they undergo high profile mining expansion. With a demonstrable background in project controls and multi disciplined experience as a Senior Mining Engineer, you will contribute to the accomplishment of a successful high performance company rewarding as follows:
- generous & industry competitive remuneration package
- contract role
- expanding career opportunities
- world class multi-project delivery model
- global network, central-based business management centre
- easy Brisbane location
Senior Planning Engineer position details:
- overall responsibility for direction & delivery of Project Controls function
- management of coal mine project scope & deliverables
- manage & direct multiple projects/Planning Engineers providing mentorship & guidance
- supervise cost control, project estimates & schedules
Senior Planning Engineer, skills needed:
- tertiary qualifications - Project Management, Engineering or equivalent
- proven abilities preparing, presenting & interpreting mine plan models
- demonstrable exp in project controls, planning, cost control management
- proven abilities in driving team to succeed, exceptional leadership skills
- superior communication & relationship building skills



Electronics Engineering in the Mining Industry


The term electrical engineer is also known as electronic engineering. This career uses scientific knowledge of the behavior and the effects of electrons to develop components, devices, systems, or equipment such as transistors, circuit boards, and electron tubes. In the United States, the electrical engineering encompasses all electrical disciplines including electronics. The Institute of electrical and Electronics Engineers is one of the most important and influential organizations for electronics engineers. 

The Responsibility of Electronics Engineer

Electronics engineer plan and implement research methodology and procedures by applying the principles of electrical theory to engineering projects. They study technical drawings of electrical systems and topographical maps to ensure installation and operations conform to standards and customer requirements. They develop applications of controls, instruments for new commercial and industrial uses. They also layout electric power plants and distribution lines; and operate and design software to perform engineering tasks. 

Electronics engineers compile data and writes reports regarding existing and potential engineering studies and projects. They collect data relating to commercial and residential development, population, and power system interconnection to determine operating efficiency of electrical systems. They estimate labor material and costs, and prepare specifications for purchase of materials and equipment. Furthermore, they evaluate and analyses data regarding electric power systems and stations, and recommends changes to improve operating efficiency; evaluate and analyses data regarding electric power systems and stations, and recommends changes to improve operating equipment. 

Electronics engineers inspect completed installations and observe operations for conformance to design and equipment specifications, and operational and safety standards. They confer with engineers, customers to meet up potential projects and projects.  They perform detailed calculations to compute and establish manufacturing, construction and installation standards and specifications. They also conduct field surveys and studies maps, graphs, diagrams, and other data to identify and correct power system problems. They investigate customer or public complaints, and sometimes they do determine nature and extent of problem. And lastly, electronics engineers direct operations and coordinates manufacturing, construction, installation, maintenance, and testing to ensure compliance with customer requirements.

Thursday, February 10, 2011

Uranium


Have you heard of in-situ technique? Most uranium mining is done through that technique. In-situ technique is a method does not involve digging at the surface nor underground. The minerals we get from this technique is mostly soluble such as uranium oxide, sodium sulfate such as potash, potassium chloride, sodium sulfate and uranium oxide can also be dissolved in water.

Uranium is also used as a coloring agent in uranium glass, creating orange-red to yellow shades. It was also used for tithing and shading in early on photography. Uranium turns silvery white, squashy and somewhat paramagnetic when cultured. It is sometimes malleable and ductile; weakly radioactive metal, which is slightly softer then steel. Moreover, uranium metal has extremely high thickness, being in the region of 70% more crowded than lead, nevertheless to some extent less dense than gold. Uranium, in fact, has very high density than led, yet slightly less dense then gold. And it can react with cold water and in air. Uranium metal becomes coated with a dark layer of uranium oxide. Moreover, Uranium in ores is extracted chemically and converted into uranium dioxide or other chemical forms functional in the industry.

History and Pre-discovery use

Francis Perrin, a French physicist discovered ores deposits in 1972 at the Oklo mine in Gabon, West Africa. The use of uranium in its natural oxide form dates back. Yellow glass with 1% uranium oxide was found in a roman villa in Naples, Italy in 1912. However, in the late middle ages, pitchblende was extracted from the Habsburg silver mines in Bohemia and was used as a coloring agent in the local glassmaking industry. Then, in the early 19th century, the world’s only known sources of uranium ore were these mines.

Wednesday, February 9, 2011

Mining Careers at Gold

1.      Gold Recruitment provides dependable, up to date, and pertinent career information and job description for aspiring professionals who are making the right decisions about their future career path.


Whether you are searching for detailed information on a particular occupation, our friendly website covers many popular careers throughout Australia mainly in the field of construction:


Project Controls/Senior Planning Engineer/Civil Engineer


A prestigious world class group has firmly established a standard of excellence within the industry and seeks an experienced Senior Planning Engineer to parallel the needs of a successful organization as they undergo high profile mining expansion. With a demonstrable background in project controls and multi disciplined experience as a Senior Mining Engineer, you will contribute to the accomplishment of a successful high performance company rewarding as follows:
- generous & industry competitive remuneration package
- contract role
- expanding career opportunities
- world class multi-project delivery model
- global network, central-based business management centre
- easy Brisbane location

Senior Planning Engineer position details:
- overall responsibility for direction & delivery of Project Controls function
- management of coal mine project scope & deliverables
- manage & direct multiple projects/Planning Engineers providing mentorship & guidance
- supervise cost control, project estimates & schedules

Senior Planning Engineer, skills needed:
- tertiary qualifications - Project Management, Engineering or equivalent
- proven abilities preparing, presenting & interpreting mine plan models
- demonstrable exp in project controls, planning, cost control management
- proven abilities in driving team to succeed, exceptional leadership skills
- superior communication & relationship building skills





We are looking for qualified mine geologist who will be willing to stretch yourself to join an elite crew, you will be highly rewarded with a SUPERB PACKAGE + bonus incentives + relocation to reflect the importance and aim of this technically authoritative Mine Geologist role, to provide technical support and effective geological interpretation and advice for strata control processes, and to maximize and enhance the value of the mine.
Mine Geologist position details:
- management of geological information for Surface, Outbye, Development & Longwall areas
- coal quality analysis & forecasting
- modelling, drawing, data input & storage
- hazard & cost management

Mine Geologist skills we need:
- relevant degree qualification - Science/Geology
- exposure to underground coal mining operations/software
- proven relationship development, team orientation
- highly focused, motivated, self directed
- high regard for OH&S



We are searching for a credible geotechnical engineer to join an elite crew you will be highly rewarded with a SUPERB PACKAGE + bonus incentives + relocation to reflect the importance and aim of the Geotechnical Engineer role - to provide thorough and reliable geotechnical investigations, analysis and data interpretation to maximize and enhance the value of the mine.
Geotechnical Engineer position details:
- geotechnical investigations
- presentation & design of formal engineering reports
- preparation of tender documents & evaluation advice

Geotechnical Engineer skills we need:
- degree qualification with broad range of post grad exp
- extensive practical geotechnical investigative exp
- exp in seismically active underground mining operations
- demonstrable report documentation & presentation
- exceptional written / verbal communication
- exceptional interpretative, analytical & project management skills
- unwavering & demonstrable commitment to safety, the environment & the community



We are looking for an Engineer qualified in Process Control Systems willing to stretch yourself to join this elite crew, you will be highly rewarded with a generous package + accommodation options + vehicle allowance to reflect the importance and aim of the Development Overhauls Engineer role, to provide leadership in the application of safety and engineering management to maximise plant and equipment availability and the value of the mine.

As an experienced Engineer / Development Overhauls Engineer whose technical skills are complimented by proven leadership skills and management capabilities, ideally you possess:
- tertiary qualifications/equivalent in Process Control Systems
- demonstrable history in PCS role
- experience in contract & project management
- leadership qualities & exceptional communication skills
- strong problem solving & multitasking skills
- ability to work in high pressure & competing priority environments
- genuine commitment to safety & environment
- underground / open cut coal exp advantageous



Nestled in the Central Qld highlands, yet under 3 hours from Qld's desirable coastline is a quaint and resourceful mining community seeking a Senior Mining Engineer. As a credible Mining Engineer willing to stretch yourself to join this elite crew, you will be generously rewarded to reflect the importance and aim of the Senior Mining Engineer role contributing to the co-ordination and development of operational and technical mine planning activities for the life of the mine.

As an experienced Senior Mining Engineer you will enjoy:
- SUPERB salary + bonus incentives + relocation + accommodation options + meals
- weekends at the coast
- unwavering commitment to progression / expanding career opportunities
- flexible, supportive management structure / solid multi national network

Senior Mining Engineer job details:
- contribute to Life of Mine Plan design, formalities & co-ordination addressing all essential operational & technical aspects
- provision of advice to develop/maintain/improve plan designs
- responsible for cost management, forecasts, reconciliations, schedules, monitoring & reporting

Mining Engineer skills we need:
- underground coal + min 3yrs mine planning exp
- tertiary qualification Mine Engineering or equivalent
- fluent in mine design/planning software
- proven abilities mine design controls & planning
- superior communication, high level analytical & problem solving skills
- forward thinker, exceptional relationship builder
- uncompromising commitment to safety

6.      Mining Engineer


As a Mining Engineer willing to stretch yourself to join this elite crew, you will be generously rewarded to reflect the importance and aim of the Mining Engineer role, responsible for the co-ordination and development of mine planning activities and strategic and conceptual plans for the mines. As an experienced Mining Engineer you will enjoy:
- SUPERB salary + bonus incentives + relocation + accommodation options + meals
- weekends at the coast
- unwavering commitment to progression / expanding career opportunities
- flexible, supportive management structure / solid multi national network

Mining Engineer job details:
- contribute to mine design, project formalities & co-ordination
- provision of advice to develop/maintain/improve project design
- contribute to cost management, forecasts, reconciliations, schedules, monitoring & reporting

Mining Engineer skills we need:
- 5+ yrs underground mining exp
- tertiary qualification Mine Engineering or equivalent
- confident in mine design/planning software
- proven abilities mine design controls & planning
- uncompromising commitment to safety
- exceptional communicator, forward thinker, relationship builder


And they are called geoscientists


Who geoscientists are?
Geoscientists study the nature, composition and structure of the earth to increase scientific knowledge, trace materials and minerals, and advise on the extraction of minerals, environmental protection and rehabilitation of land after mining. They may specialize in the fields and exploration, geochemistry, mineralogy, geomorphology, hydrogeology, mathematical geology, mine geology, paleontologist, and structural geology.

Geoscientists in the minerals industry may explore in the areas of earth to determine its structure and the types of rocks that exist, study rock core and sampling theory, undertake ground magnetic, examine specimens, and advise on geological suitability for structures. Geoscientists also contribute to environment assessment, sometimes they prepare mathematical models and geological reports to describe processes, and supervise the work of field officers.

Working Environment
Geoscientists can work often in a field examining geological formation collected by the remote sensing instruments. They often perform seismic studies generated by an earthquake to determine the earthquake’s location and intensity. They also study fossil remains of animal and plant life or experiment with the flow of water and oil through rocks. Some of them spend most of the time in the office. However, many allocate their working time working in both office and field. In the field they work in warm or cold climates and in all kinds of weather, and in research, they may perform laborious task such as digging and scooping minerals. Geologists frequently travel to remote locations by helicopter or by any land vehicles. Many exploration geologists work in foreign countries, and sometimes in remote areas under difficult condition. Moreover, fieldwork often requires working long and irregular hours.

Job Employment and Outlook
Employment growth is expected to go faster than the average for all occupations. In fact, geoscientists acquired about 33,600 jobs in 2008, while another 8,100 were employed as hydrologists. Many more individuals acquired jobs in faculty positions in colleges and universities. Employment in management, scientific, and technical consulting services must continue to grow as more geoscientists work as consultants. Hence, many geoscientists monitor the quality of the environment, checking for problems such as deteriorating coastal environments and soil and water contamination. 

Friday, February 4, 2011

Zeolite: A Stone Mineral


Zeolite was originally coined in the 18th century by a Swedish mineralogist christened Axel Fredrik Cronstedt, who revealed that heating a natural mineral that the stones began to progress about as the water evaporated. He called this substance zeolite because of the Greek utterances which means ‘stones that boils.’ Zeolites are microporous and commonly used as commercial adsorbents. Zeolites figure where volcanic rocks and ash deposits respond with Alkaline ground stream. These stone minerals are also crystallized in post depositional surroundings over periods varying from thousands to millions of years in minor marine basins. Zeolites are rarely pure and are contaminated to varying degrees by different forms of minerals, metals, quartz or other zeolite. Zeolite occurring in nature is eradicated from many vital profitable uses where reliability and clarity levels are of high-end and essential.

Moreover, Zeolites are largely used in industry for water purification, as catalysts, and in nuclear reprocessing. Their major use is in the manufacture of laundry detergents, medicine and in agriculture. In November 2010, there were 194 unique Zeolite frameworks have been identified, and over 40 naturally occurring Zeolite frameworks are known.

Sources
In Arkansas and New Mexico, people make use of conventional open pit mining techniques to acquire natural Zeolites. In mining process, the ore is crushed, dried, and milled. The milled ore may be air-classified as to particle size and shipped in bags or bulk. The crushed product may be carefully screened to eliminate fine material when a granular product is required, and some pelletized products are produced from fine material. The world’s yearly production of Zeolites is presently about 4 million tons. And in fact, the world leaders in supplying natural Zeolites are Eastern Europe, Western Europe, Australia, and Asia.
One of the vital processes used to carry out Zeolite synthesis is sol-gel processing. The silicalite sol formed by the hydrothermal method is very stable. Also the ease of scaling up this process makes it a preferred route for Zeolite synthesis.

Uses
Zeolites are widely used as ion-exchange beds in domestic and commercial water purification and softening. Zeolites have the capacity to provide precise and specific separation of gases including the removal of water from low-grade natural gas streams.

In Petrochemical Industry, Zeolites are widely used as catalysts in the petrochemical industry, like for example in fluid catalytic cracing and hydro-cracking. Furthermore, Zeolites confine molecules in small spaces, which causes changes in their structiure and reactivity. The hydrogen forms of Zeolites are strong solid state acids, and can facilitate a host of acid-catalyzed reactions, such as isomerisations and alkylation

In Nuclear Industry,  Zeolites have many uses in reprocessing methods, where their micro-porous ability to capture some ions while allowing others to pass freely allow many fission products to be efficiently removed from nuclear waste and permanently trapped. Fission products, the zeolite-waste combination can be hot pressed into an extremely durable ceramic form, closing the pores and trapping the waste in a solid stone block.

In heating and refrigeration, Zeolites can be used as solar thermal collectors and for adsorption refrigeration. The heat of adsorption and ability to hydrate and dehydrate while maintaining structural stability is exploited.

Detergents
The largest single use for Zeolite is the global laundry detergent market. This amounted to 1.44 million metric tons per year of anhydrous Zeolite in 1992.