PROBLEMS OF EXPLORATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF MINERAL RESOURCES AT THE VERKHNEKAMSKOYE DEPOSIT OF POTASSIUM MAGNESIUM SALTS
The problem of exploration and development of mineral resources at the Verkhnekamskoye deposit of potassium/magnesium salts has been discussed. Poor mining engineering, processing, social and environmental efficiency of its operation and sylvite flotation has been shown. Geological premises and technical feasibility of developing sylvite and carnallite rocks of the unallocated subsoil reserve fund using patented hydraulic borehole mining methods and an integrated non-waste reduction technology to produce critical end products have been determined. The practicability of pilot commercial hydraulic borehole mining of salts from the deposit and deep- seated prospective features in the Caspian Sea region, Eastern Siberia and the Kaliningrad Baltic region have been demonstrated.