Optimization of mining method in subsea deep gold mines: A case study

The mining method optimization in subsea deep gold mines was studied. First, an index system for subsea mining method selection was established based on technical feasibility, security status, economic benefit, and management complexity. Next, an evaluation matrix containing crisp numbers and triangular fuzzy numbers (TFNs) was constructed to describe quantitative and qualitative information simultaneously. Then, a hybrid model combining fuzzy theory and the Tomada de Decisao Interativa Multicriterio (TODIM) method was proposed. Finally, the feasibility of the proposed approach was validated by an illustrative example of selecting the optimal mining method in the Sanshandao Gold Mine (China). The robustness of this approach was demonstrated through a sensitivity analysis. The results show that the proposed hybrid TODIM method is reliable and stable for choosing the optimal mining method in subsea deep gold mines and provides references for mining method optimization in other similar undersea mines.