Abstract

Mining processes and associated regulations for oil shale development in eastern United States are discussed with emphasis given to overburden and spent shale disposal at the mining site. Curves are presented which allow for quick determination of stripping ratios, overburden quantities and oil shale quantities. Procedures are outlined for determining quantities of materials to be disposed and graphs are given for sizing various zones of the disposal embankment. These procedures are demonstrated with an example.

Stability of slopes and magnitude of settlement are functions of the engineering properties of the embankment materials. Procedures for obtaining these data are from field exploration and laboratory tests are given. Some of these data can be estimated from inexpensive index tests.

Details of excavation, preparation of embankment foundation, and of construction are given. Compaction equipment, procedures, specifications, and control are all addressed.

Techniques for analyzing the stability of slopes are examined and several examples are provided. Finally, procedures for estimating magnitude and rate of settlement are given. Since oil shale operations are new to this region, it is recommended that initial embankment construction operations and embankment performance be monitored closely. Adjustments based on the observed performance should improve the economics of the disposal operation.

Report Date

2-1-1983

Report Number

UKTRP-83-8

Digital Object Identifier

http://dx.doi.org/10.13023/KTC.RR.1983.08

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