Abstract
Developing the country's mineral resource base plays a key role in economic growth, especially through the exploitation of small deposits often located in complex geological conditions. For the successful implementation of mineral extraction projects in such conditions, it is necessary to consider not only geological features but also technical aspects, such as engineering-geological conditions. Investigating these features helps determine the optimal strategies for deposit development and ensures the safety and efficiency of mining operations. Engineering-geological studies, by analyzing the physical and mechanical properties, allow for a detailed understanding of rock masses and clarification of geological conditions to justify the most effective mining methods and the construction of mining facilities. One example of the interest mining companies have in developing promising areas located in complex geological settings is the Shuak Ore District discussed in this paper, which is associated with gold-copper-olybdenum mineralization and lies in a zone of tectonomagmatic activity. A comprehensive set of engineering-geological studies was conducted to assess the feasibility of constructing open-pit mines in the ore field areas. These studies included the examination of the physical and mechanical properties of drill core samples, the determination of the geological strength index, and the structural disturbance index of the rock mass. Based on these indicators, engineering-geological elements were identified, and rock strength passports for the rock mass were created, which are used to calculate the parameters of the open pits. General patterns of changes in rock fracturing of different compositions, degrees of oxidation, and weathering due to tectonic disturbances and intrusive contacts were established. These factors must be considered when organizing engineering-geological surveys, selecting mining directions, and planning operations in both host and ore-bearing rocks in each section of the ore district.