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What are the applications of structural geology in mining and geology?

I'm a structural geologist starting in the mining sector. I understand the theory of stress fields and fault zones, but I need to translate that into actionable advice for exploration managers and mine engineers. What are the most common, high-impact questions they have where structural analysis provides the definitive answer, for example, in predicting ore shoot continuity or designing stable pit slopes?

 

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By Devatest Answered 11 months ago

In my consulting work, the translation is everything. For exploration, the key question is: "Where is the next high-grade shoot?" Structure answers this by identifying the specific fold hinge, fault jog, or lithological contact that acted as a fluid trap. We map these controls to vector drills. For the engineers, the question is: "Will this pit wall fail?" Our structural maps identify persistent, weak fault planes that dictate slope angle. I spend most of my time building 3D models that integrate these structures to show the real shape of the orebody and the rock mass hazards, which directly drives multi-million dollar decisions on drilling and digging.

 

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