School of Mining and Geosciences
School of Mining and Geosciences
School of Mining and Geosciences
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Lead Professor: Dean Randy Hazlett, Dr. Milovan Fustic, Dr. George Mathews, Dr. Mahmoud Leila
Description:
Research in SMG is underway on accelerated aqueous reactions that convert gaseous CO2 into solid carbonates to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and safely and effectively sequester that carbon in solid form using minerals abundant in Kazakhstan, including those labeled as mining waste. The natural carbon cycle typically accomplishes atmospheric cleansing over thousands of years, but human intervention has disrupted the balance with fossil fuel emissions. We have demonstrated that this CO2 capture mechanism can be reduced to just a few days. The carbonates formed can be deposited in geostorage sites, or the reactions can take place in porous rock in-situ. Our aim is to quantify reaction rate parameters to populate geochemical simulators for planning large-scale CO2 geostorage solutions in Kazakhstan with the potential of exporting this technology.
A seed research effort was initially funded by a Chevron Sustainability Grant after scoping work within a NU Cooperative Research Grant showed feasibility. The work is currently the subject matter of a Faculty Development Grant to pursue low temperature, low pressure opportunities for geostorage.
Description:
Research in SMG is underway on accelerated aqueous reactions that convert gaseous CO2 into solid carbonates to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and safely and effectively sequester that carbon in solid form using minerals abundant in Kazakhstan, including those labeled as mining waste. The natural carbon cycle typically accomplishes atmospheric cleansing over thousands of years, but human intervention has disrupted the balance with fossil fuel emissions. We have demonstrated that this CO2 capture mechanism can be reduced to just a few days. The carbonates formed can be deposited in geostorage sites, or the reactions can take place in porous rock in-situ. Our aim is to quantify reaction rate parameters to populate geochemical simulators for planning large-scale CO2 geostorage solutions in Kazakhstan with the potential of exporting this technology.
A seed research effort was initially funded by a Chevron Sustainability Grant after scoping work within a NU Cooperative Research Grant showed feasibility. The work is currently the subject matter of a Faculty Development Grant to pursue low temperature, low pressure opportunities for geostorage.
Lead Professor: Dr. Nasser Madani
Description:
The GeoStat Research Group focuses on integrating geostatistics with advanced data science techniques, including machine learning, to tackle complex challenges in geological modeling and resource estimation. The team is dedicated to developing innovative statistical methods that enhance the understanding and management of natural resources, particularly in challenging environments like mine tailings. Their work aims to improve the accuracy and reliability of resource evaluations, contributing to more efficient and sustainable mining practices.
Description:
The GeoStat Research Group focuses on integrating geostatistics with advanced data science techniques, including machine learning, to tackle complex challenges in geological modeling and resource estimation. The team is dedicated to developing innovative statistical methods that enhance the understanding and management of natural resources, particularly in challenging environments like mine tailings. Their work aims to improve the accuracy and reliability of resource evaluations, contributing to more efficient and sustainable mining practices.
Key Members:
Established in 2023, the FFCSRC is dedicated to advancing sustainable energy solutions through innovative research in underground hydrogen (H₂) and carbon dioxide (CO₂) storage technologies. The center adopts a multidisciplinary approach that combines laboratory experiments, numerical simulations, machine learning, and artificial intelligence to tackle critical challenges in CO₂ and H₂ storage. Key research areas include secure storage methods, optimization of enhanced oil recovery (EOR), and the development of novel techniques for underground hydrogen storage.
Research Focus Areas:
CO₂ Storage:
FFCSRC investigates secure CO₂ storage methods, particularly within depleted reservoirs, to address issues such as CO₂ leakage and geochemical interactions with reservoir rocks. The research aims to optimize EOR techniques, reduce gas breakthrough, and prevent asphaltene precipitation, enhancing both storage capacity and operational safety.
H₂ Storage:
Underground hydrogen storage (UHS) is an emerging research field at the center, involving collaboration across disciplines including petroleum engineering, chemistry, materials science, geology, and environmental science. The goal is to improve hydrogen storage and retrieval by exploring innovative techniques, assessing reservoir properties, and utilizing machine-learning models to optimize injection and containment processes.
Future Directions:
FFCSRC is also exploring the use of CO₂ as a cushion gas in UHS, leveraging Kazakhstan's unique geographical and geological attributes to position the country as a global leader in clean energy exports and carbon management.
- Dr. Masoud Riazi (SMG, Department of Petroleum Engineering, NU)
- Prof. Peyman Pourafshary (SMG, Department of Petroleum Engineering, NU)
- Dr. Sagyn Omirbekov (National Laboratory Astana, NU)
- Dr. Amin Esfahani (SSH, Department of Mathematics, NU)
- Dr. Ainash Shabdirova (Atyrau University of Oil and Gas)
- Dr. Jamilyam Ismailova (Satbayev University)
- Dr. Seitkhan Azat (Satbayev University)
Established in 2023, the FFCSRC is dedicated to advancing sustainable energy solutions through innovative research in underground hydrogen (H₂) and carbon dioxide (CO₂) storage technologies. The center adopts a multidisciplinary approach that combines laboratory experiments, numerical simulations, machine learning, and artificial intelligence to tackle critical challenges in CO₂ and H₂ storage. Key research areas include secure storage methods, optimization of enhanced oil recovery (EOR), and the development of novel techniques for underground hydrogen storage.
Research Focus Areas:
CO₂ Storage:
FFCSRC investigates secure CO₂ storage methods, particularly within depleted reservoirs, to address issues such as CO₂ leakage and geochemical interactions with reservoir rocks. The research aims to optimize EOR techniques, reduce gas breakthrough, and prevent asphaltene precipitation, enhancing both storage capacity and operational safety.
H₂ Storage:
Underground hydrogen storage (UHS) is an emerging research field at the center, involving collaboration across disciplines including petroleum engineering, chemistry, materials science, geology, and environmental science. The goal is to improve hydrogen storage and retrieval by exploring innovative techniques, assessing reservoir properties, and utilizing machine-learning models to optimize injection and containment processes.
Future Directions:
FFCSRC is also exploring the use of CO₂ as a cushion gas in UHS, leveraging Kazakhstan's unique geographical and geological attributes to position the country as a global leader in clean energy exports and carbon management.
Principal Investigator: Dr. Milovan Fustic
Description:
This project investigates the geological factors influencing uranium occurrences and aims to optimize in-situ leaching (ISL) recovery methods. By utilizing subsurface logs, core samples, and outcrop analogs, the team interprets depositional environments, maps sequence stratigraphic surfaces, and identifies the architectural elements of sedimentary-hosted uranium deposits. A novel deterministic mapping workflow is employed to create three-dimensional visualizations of reservoir and non-reservoir geobodies, as well as mineralized zones (ore bodies). This approach provides a deeper understanding of ore geometries between drill wells, aiding in the optimal placement of production wells.
Additionally, the generated geological maps serve as a critical framework for defining the statistical distribution of facies within static geological models, crucial for reserves estimation and production optimization. The research is conducted in close collaboration with Orano's R&D team (Paris, France) and Katko JV LLP’s field operations.
Research Team:
The project is led by Principal Investigator Dr. Milovan Fustic and supported by a dedicated team, including one MSc holder, one MSc student, and three undergraduate research assistants. They contribute through extensive fieldwork, laboratory studies, and advanced software analyses. The project is fully funded by Katko JV LLP, a joint venture company between Orano and Kazatomprom.
More information: link
Description:
This project investigates the geological factors influencing uranium occurrences and aims to optimize in-situ leaching (ISL) recovery methods. By utilizing subsurface logs, core samples, and outcrop analogs, the team interprets depositional environments, maps sequence stratigraphic surfaces, and identifies the architectural elements of sedimentary-hosted uranium deposits. A novel deterministic mapping workflow is employed to create three-dimensional visualizations of reservoir and non-reservoir geobodies, as well as mineralized zones (ore bodies). This approach provides a deeper understanding of ore geometries between drill wells, aiding in the optimal placement of production wells.
Additionally, the generated geological maps serve as a critical framework for defining the statistical distribution of facies within static geological models, crucial for reserves estimation and production optimization. The research is conducted in close collaboration with Orano's R&D team (Paris, France) and Katko JV LLP’s field operations.
Research Team:
The project is led by Principal Investigator Dr. Milovan Fustic and supported by a dedicated team, including one MSc holder, one MSc student, and three undergraduate research assistants. They contribute through extensive fieldwork, laboratory studies, and advanced software analyses. The project is fully funded by Katko JV LLP, a joint venture company between Orano and Kazatomprom.
More information: link
Lead Professor: Professor Fidelis T. Suorineni
Key Members:
Mining has evolved into a technology and data-driven industry, and the Integrated Mining Technology Research (IMTR) Group is at the forefront of this transformation. The strategic and ultimate goal of IMTR is to lead the development of the mine of the future, conceptualized as an adaptive, open system that utilizes cutting-edge technologies and advanced data analytics. IMTR serves as the nerve center for autonomous mining, which is fundamental to achieving zero harm and developing ore factory technology within the SMART mining concept.
The IMTR Group aims to accelerate Nazarbayev University's multidisciplinary research and collaboration capabilities, leveraging its unique knowledge base to expedite ore discovery and optimize safety and productivity in the mining sector in Kazakhstan. By applying next-generation technologies, the group addresses critical challenges in the industry, positioning itself as a key player in advancing mining innovation.
Key Members:
- Sergei Sabanov (Associate Professor, SMG)
- George Mathews (Assistant Professor, SMG)
- Stavros Poulopoulos (Professor, SEDS)
- Danieli Tosi (Professor, SEDS)
- Stefanos Xenarios (Adjunct Professor, GSB)
- Yohei Kawamura (Professor, Hokkaido University, Japan)
- Shuai Xu (Professor, Northeastern University, China)
Mining has evolved into a technology and data-driven industry, and the Integrated Mining Technology Research (IMTR) Group is at the forefront of this transformation. The strategic and ultimate goal of IMTR is to lead the development of the mine of the future, conceptualized as an adaptive, open system that utilizes cutting-edge technologies and advanced data analytics. IMTR serves as the nerve center for autonomous mining, which is fundamental to achieving zero harm and developing ore factory technology within the SMART mining concept.
The IMTR Group aims to accelerate Nazarbayev University's multidisciplinary research and collaboration capabilities, leveraging its unique knowledge base to expedite ore discovery and optimize safety and productivity in the mining sector in Kazakhstan. By applying next-generation technologies, the group addresses critical challenges in the industry, positioning itself as a key player in advancing mining innovation.
Group Leader: Professor Ata Akcil
Description:
The Mineral-Metal Resources and Recovery (MMR&R) research group at the School of Mining and Geosciences (SMG), Nazarbayev University (NU), Astana, Kazakhstan, is a multidisciplinary team conducting research, development, analysis, consultancy, and training on critical and strategic raw materials, including mine waste and industrial waste recycling. Their work aims to contribute to a healthier community and environment by focusing on sustainable resource management.
The group operates mid-sized research laboratories equipped with a wide range of analytical characterization facilities and other research equipment essential for projects of varying scales. Their primary research areas include mineral processing, recycling technologies, resource recovery, metal extraction from primary and secondary sources, and waste management within a circular economy framework.
Led by Professor Ata Akcil and supported by senior expert Assoc. Professor Mert Guney, the group collaborates nationally and internationally with universities such as Satbayev University and Kazakh-British Technical University in Almaty, Kazakhstan. The team brings extensive experience in project management and has completed over 50 R&D and consultancy projects globally, including in Europe (Germany, Italy, Belgium, Romania), the USA, South Africa, Canada, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Jordan, Montenegro, and Turkey.
The group's expertise spans R&D activities related to mineral processing, hydrometallurgical extraction of base, precious, and critical metals, including rare earth elements (REEs), from various ores and industrial wastes. Their work also focuses on managing mine and metallurgical waste, establishing industry contacts, and overseeing R&D collaborations.
Description:
The Mineral-Metal Resources and Recovery (MMR&R) research group at the School of Mining and Geosciences (SMG), Nazarbayev University (NU), Astana, Kazakhstan, is a multidisciplinary team conducting research, development, analysis, consultancy, and training on critical and strategic raw materials, including mine waste and industrial waste recycling. Their work aims to contribute to a healthier community and environment by focusing on sustainable resource management.
The group operates mid-sized research laboratories equipped with a wide range of analytical characterization facilities and other research equipment essential for projects of varying scales. Their primary research areas include mineral processing, recycling technologies, resource recovery, metal extraction from primary and secondary sources, and waste management within a circular economy framework.
Led by Professor Ata Akcil and supported by senior expert Assoc. Professor Mert Guney, the group collaborates nationally and internationally with universities such as Satbayev University and Kazakh-British Technical University in Almaty, Kazakhstan. The team brings extensive experience in project management and has completed over 50 R&D and consultancy projects globally, including in Europe (Germany, Italy, Belgium, Romania), the USA, South Africa, Canada, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Jordan, Montenegro, and Turkey.
The group's expertise spans R&D activities related to mineral processing, hydrometallurgical extraction of base, precious, and critical metals, including rare earth elements (REEs), from various ores and industrial wastes. Their work also focuses on managing mine and metallurgical waste, establishing industry contacts, and overseeing R&D collaborations.
Project Leader: Professor Ali Mortazavi
Description:
To safely store Carbone dioxide, it is vital to ensure the integrity of the caprock during the CO2 injection process and production within a reservoir. The objective of this research work is to conduct a comprehensive numerical and experimental study of caprock breach and fault activation mechanisms and delve into the mechanisms involved in fault reactivation processes in CO2 storage.
The focus of this research is to conduct a comprehensive analysis of fault mechanical response to pressure field induced by the CO2 injection and caprock in-situ performance and evidence of potential leakage from the faults. The main objectives of this research can be summarized below:
Description:
To safely store Carbone dioxide, it is vital to ensure the integrity of the caprock during the CO2 injection process and production within a reservoir. The objective of this research work is to conduct a comprehensive numerical and experimental study of caprock breach and fault activation mechanisms and delve into the mechanisms involved in fault reactivation processes in CO2 storage.
The focus of this research is to conduct a comprehensive analysis of fault mechanical response to pressure field induced by the CO2 injection and caprock in-situ performance and evidence of potential leakage from the faults. The main objectives of this research can be summarized below:
- To develop computational methodologies/tools to assess caprock fracturing, in particular, fault reactivation, which can be used for identification and quantitative assessments of potential leakage pathways for candidate storage reservoirs
- Validation and application of the developed methodology to available data from actual CO2 injection fields worldwide and within Kazakhstan
- Set the base framework for theoretical and experimental studies on geomechanics of CO2 storage in Kazakhstan
- Characterization of fault gouge material (FGM) behavior under CO2 Storage Conditions
- Development of a geomechanical risk assessment model for CO2 storage
- Numerical investigation of fault activation mechanisms
- Development of a weighting methodology for key geomechanical parameters involved in CO2 storage
- Investigation of CO2 Storage in Depleted Underground Mines
Lead Professor: Dr. Saffet Yagiz
Description:
The Rock Excavation and Automation Research (REAR) Group conducts interdisciplinary research in mining geotechnical engineering, tunneling, engineering geology, and data sciences. The group aims to deliver optimized and strategic solutions for engineering projects, enhancing time and financial management. The REAR Group's ultimate goal is to optimize mechanized excavation processes by developing predictive models for rock cutting tools (e.g., disc and conical cutters) and the performance of various drilling and boring machines, such as tunnel boring machines, roadheaders, impact hammers, shaft and raise boring machines, continuous miners, ploughs, and rotary and percussion drills. These machines are commonly used in mining, civil, and infrastructure construction projects.
The group utilizes advanced data analytics to model geotechnical, geological, laboratory testing data, and machine parameters, leading to innovative findings that improve excavation techniques. The research team comprises a diverse group of members, including a professor as the principal investigator, researchers, postdoctoral fellows, undergraduate and postgraduate students, and external collaborators.
More information: link
Description:
The Rock Excavation and Automation Research (REAR) Group conducts interdisciplinary research in mining geotechnical engineering, tunneling, engineering geology, and data sciences. The group aims to deliver optimized and strategic solutions for engineering projects, enhancing time and financial management. The REAR Group's ultimate goal is to optimize mechanized excavation processes by developing predictive models for rock cutting tools (e.g., disc and conical cutters) and the performance of various drilling and boring machines, such as tunnel boring machines, roadheaders, impact hammers, shaft and raise boring machines, continuous miners, ploughs, and rotary and percussion drills. These machines are commonly used in mining, civil, and infrastructure construction projects.
The group utilizes advanced data analytics to model geotechnical, geological, laboratory testing data, and machine parameters, leading to innovative findings that improve excavation techniques. The research team comprises a diverse group of members, including a professor as the principal investigator, researchers, postdoctoral fellows, undergraduate and postgraduate students, and external collaborators.
More information: link
Lead Professor: Dr. Amoussou Adoko
Description:
The Intelligent Rock Engineering Systems Modeling (IRESM) research group dedicates itself to conducting innovative research and training highly qualified personnel in the areas of rock engineering and mine design, which are crucial for more efficient mining operations in today's technologically advanced mining era. The group aims to develop advanced methodologies and technologies capable of adequately analyzing and predicting the behavior of rock masses in complex and dynamic engineering conditions (such as induced seismicity, rockburst, fall of ground, stope overbreak, etc.) and quantifying the associated geotechnical risks, with the ultimate goal of contributing to enhancing safety and profitability in mine operations. Our research approach incorporates multidisciplinary data acquisition, machine learning, soft computing, stochastic modelling for dynamic systems, geo-mechanical modelling, risk assessment, and real-time prediction techniques.
Description:
The Intelligent Rock Engineering Systems Modeling (IRESM) research group dedicates itself to conducting innovative research and training highly qualified personnel in the areas of rock engineering and mine design, which are crucial for more efficient mining operations in today's technologically advanced mining era. The group aims to develop advanced methodologies and technologies capable of adequately analyzing and predicting the behavior of rock masses in complex and dynamic engineering conditions (such as induced seismicity, rockburst, fall of ground, stope overbreak, etc.) and quantifying the associated geotechnical risks, with the ultimate goal of contributing to enhancing safety and profitability in mine operations. Our research approach incorporates multidisciplinary data acquisition, machine learning, soft computing, stochastic modelling for dynamic systems, geo-mechanical modelling, risk assessment, and real-time prediction techniques.
Principal Investigator: Dr. Milovan Fustic
The project’s main aim is to assess the Geothermal Energy Potential of the sedimentary basins in Kazakhstan. The presence of hot spots sufficient for energy production is proven by constructing georeferenced temperature distribution maps and their conversion to energy distribution maps using modern concepts and techniques. Comprehensive geological studies are carried to find laterally extensive connected reservoirs with the best filtration properties among the areas containing the largest energy potential. The mineralogical content of the produced geothermal water helps to evaluate its corrosive potential for future fluid production and helps to estimate the possibility of the industrial-scale production of precious metals, e.g. lithium.
More information: link
The project’s main aim is to assess the Geothermal Energy Potential of the sedimentary basins in Kazakhstan. The presence of hot spots sufficient for energy production is proven by constructing georeferenced temperature distribution maps and their conversion to energy distribution maps using modern concepts and techniques. Comprehensive geological studies are carried to find laterally extensive connected reservoirs with the best filtration properties among the areas containing the largest energy potential. The mineralogical content of the produced geothermal water helps to evaluate its corrosive potential for future fluid production and helps to estimate the possibility of the industrial-scale production of precious metals, e.g. lithium.
More information: link