Coal mine exploration

Specifications for Geological Exploration of Coal and Peat 1 Scope These specifications define the objectives and tasks of geological exploration for coal and peat, the stages of such exploration, the required level of work, the principles underlying exploration methods, as well as the criteria for classifying coal and peat resources/reserves and the principles for their estimation. 2 Normative reference documents The provisions in the following documents become part of these specifications through reference to them. GB/T 13908-2002 General Provisions for Geological Exploration of Solid Mineral Resources; GB/T 50215-94 Code for Design of Coal Mines in the Coal Industry; GB50197-94 Code for Design of Open-pit Coal Mines; GB/T 12719-91 Specifications for Hydrogeological and Engineering Geological Exploration in Mining Areas. 3 Objectives and Tasks of Coal Geological Exploration: The objectives and tasks of coal geological exploration are to provide geological data for long-term planning of coal development, overall development planning of mining areas, and preliminary design of mines. 4 Basic Principles of Coal Geological Exploration 4.1 Coal geological exploration must be carried out based on the actual conditions of the exploration area and the practical needs of coal mine production and construction; exploration techniques should be selected in a proper and rational manner, with emphasis on technical and economic efficiency. 4.2 Coal geological exploration must be guided by modern geological theories, and advanced technical equipment and exploration methods should be employed to improve the accuracy of exploration results and meet the needs of advancements in coal mine construction technology. 4.3 Coal geological exploration must adhere to the principle of \"focusing on coal, conducting comprehensive exploration, and providing comprehensive evaluations,\" in order to make full use of coal resources while protecting them reasonably, as well as to carry out exploration and evaluation of other minerals that occur alongside coal. 5 Degree of coal geological exploration 5.1 Stage classification The work of coal geological exploration is divided into four stages: preliminary exploration, general exploration, detailed exploration, and exploitation. 5.2 Preliminary exploration stage 5.2.1 Preliminary exploration should be carried out on the basis of coalfield forecasting or regional geological surveys, with the aim of identifying coal resources. 5.2.2 Requirements for the preliminary exploration work: a) Initially determine the stratigraphic sequence of the area under investigation and identify the age of the coal-bearing strata; b) Gain a general understanding of the tectonic structure of the area; c) Get an approximate idea of the distribution range of the coal-bearing strata, the coal seam coefficients, the average thickness of the coal seams, and their depth of burial, as well as the general characteristics of the coal types and their quality; d) Obtain a basic understanding of the presence of other valuable minerals; e) Estimate the resource volume of coal that can be expected to be found. 5.3 General exploration phase 5.3.1 The general exploration is carried out on the basis of the preliminary exploration, or in areas where the presence of coal is already known. 5.3.2 The general requirements for survey work are as follows: a) Determine the stratigraphic sequence of the survey area, meticulously divide the coal-bearing strata, and study their sedimentary environment characteristics and coal-forming features. b) Preliminarily determine the structural pattern of the exploration area and assess its complexity. c) Preliminarily identify the levels, thicknesses of the exploitable coal seams and the distribution range of the main exploitable coal seams; roughly determine the coal type and quality characteristics of these seams; and preliminarily assess the stability of the exploitable coal seams in the exploration area. d) Investigate the natural geographical conditions, Quaternary geological and geomorphic features of the exploration area, gain a general understanding of the hydrogeological conditions there, and assess the current state of environmental geology. e) Have a general understanding of the engineering geological conditions for development and construction in the exploration area, as well as the mining technical conditions for coal. f) Have a general understanding of the occurrence of other valuable minerals. g) Estimate the inferred and predicted resource amounts for each mineable coal seam. 5.3.3 In mining areas where coal resources are poor and geological conditions are complex, resulting in only a reconnaissance report being possible, the general requirements for the scope of reconnaissance work are: a) To basically determine the structural pattern of the mining area and the main structures within the initial mining district, as well as to gain a detailed understanding of the degree of structural complexity in that area. b) Initially determine the number, position, thickness, structure, and exploitable range of the coal seams, and appropriately refine the exploitable boundaries of the coal seams within the initial mining area. c) Initially determine the coal quality characteristics of the exploitable coal seams, basically identify the types of coal and their distribution, and gain a detailed understanding of the industrial value of other valuable minerals. d) The exploration work regarding hydrogeological conditions and other mining technical conditions shall be carried out in accordance with Article 5.2.2.1 and determined after adjustment based on the actual circumstances. e) Estimate the inferred and projected resource quantities of the mineable coal seam. 5.4 Detailed Investigation Phase 5.4.1 The task of the detailed investigation is to provide a geological basis for the overall development plan of the mining area. 5.4.2 The general requirements for the extent of detailed investigation are as follows: a) Basically determine the structural pattern of the exploration area, define its boundaries, identify the structures within the area that may affect the division of mining blocks, and assess the degree of structural complexity in the exploration area. b) Basically determine the strata levels, number of layers, thickness, and exploitable range of the exploitable coal seams; roughly establish the continuity of these coal seams; identify the locations of the outcrops of the main exploitable coal seams; understand the effects of factors such as magmatic intrusions, ancient river erosion, and ancient uplifts on the continuity of coal seams and their thickness; and roughly ascertain the extent of these effects, in order to evaluate the stability and exploitability of the exploitable coal seams. c) Basically determine the coal quality characteristics and technical properties of the exploitable coal seams, identify the types of coal in these seams, assess the potential industrial uses of the coal, initially determine the boundaries of the weathering zones in the main exploitable coal seams, and evaluate the degree of variation in coal quality within these seams. d) Basically determine the hydrogeological conditions of the exploration area; basically ascertain the engineering geological characteristics of the roof and floor of the main coal seams that can be mined, as well as technical conditions related to coal seam gas and ground temperature. Evaluate the hydrogeological conditions and other mining-related factors that may affect the development and construction of the mining area, and provide a preliminary assessment of the environmental geological conditions in the exploration area. e) Conduct a preliminary assessment of the groundwater resources within the exploration area that may have potential for utilization. f) Preliminarily determine the occurrence of other valuable minerals and conduct a preliminary assessment of their industrial value. g) Estimate the controlled, inferred, and projected resources/reserves for each mineable coal seam, wherein the distribution of controlled resources/reserves shall meet the requirements of the overall development plan for the mining area. 5.4.3 In mining areas where coal resource conditions are poor and geological conditions are complex, such that only a detailed exploration report can be submitted, the general requirements for the level of detail required are as follows: a) Determine the structural pattern of the mining area and the main structures within the initial mining zone; appropriate control should be exercised over the structures at the boundaries of the mining area. b) Basically determine the number, stratigraphic position, thickness, structure, and exploitable range of the main coal seams; within the area to be mined first, more precise control should be applied to the exploitable boundaries of these coal seams, as well as to the locations where the main coal seams occur at the surface. c) Basically determine the coal quality characteristics of the exploitable coal seams, and identify the types of coal and their distribution. d) The degree of investigation regarding hydrogeological conditions and other mining technical conditions shall be determined with reference to Article 5.5.2.1 and adjusted according to the actual circumstances. e) Estimate the controlled, inferred, and prospective resources/reserves of the mineable coal seam. 5.5 Exploration Phase 5.5.1 The task of exploration is to provide geological data for the feasibility study and preliminary design of the mine. 5.5.2 Degree of exploration work 5.5.2.1 For planned medium-sized and larger-scale mining areas with a high degree of mechanization, the general requirements for the degree of exploration work are as follows: a) The planar positions of the structural features along the boundaries of the mining area, particularly those related to the areas that will be mined first, should be determined with an accuracy of within 150 meters. b) Thoroughly identify faults with a displacement of 30 meters or more in the previously mined areas, and thoroughly identify faults with a displacement of 20 meters or more in the initial mining areas; evaluate the degree of development, distribution range of these minor structures, and their impact on mining. c) Control the contour lines of the floor of the main mineable coal seams within the area designated for initial mining; when the inclination angle of the coal seams is less than 10 degrees, the contour lines of the coal seam floor within the initial mining area should be controlled at a vertical distance of 10 meters to 20 meters. d) Thoroughly investigate the stratigraphic levels and thickness variations of the mineable coal seams, determine the continuity of these seams, control the exploitable range of each mineable coal seam in the areas to be mined first, and establish isochrones for the main mineable coal seams with significant thickness variations as well as those that require control. e) Strict control shall be exercised; up to the outcrop of the main mineable coal seam associated with the previously mined area or the initial mining zone, in the covered area, the planar position of the outcrop line of the concealed coal seam along the exploration line shall be kept within 75 meters, and the boundary of the weathering zone of the main mineable coal seam within the previously mined area shall also be under control. f) Thoroughly investigate the coal types and quality characteristics of the exploitable coal seams, as well as their variations within the previously mined areas; focus on studying the quality characteristics and technical properties related to coal mining, washing, processing, transportation, sales, and environmental protection, and provide corresponding evaluations. g) Thoroughly investigate the hydrogeological conditions of the mine area, assess the factors contributing to water inflow into the mine, estimate the amount of water that will emerge from the areas to be mined first, predict the likelihood and locations of water inrush during mining, evaluate possible changes in hydrogeological, engineering geological, and environmental geological conditions after mining, and assess the possibilities and methods for utilizing mine water. h) Thoroughly study the engineering geological characteristics of the roof and floor of the main exploitable coal seams within the previously mined areas and the initial mining zones, as well as mining-related technical factors such as coal seam gas, the tendency of coal spontaneous combustion, the risk of coal dust explosions, and ground temperature changes, and provide corresponding evaluations. i) Conduct a detailed investigation into the distribution and mining conditions of old mines, small coal mines, and operating mines; determine the extent of their void areas. The void areas in old mines should be controlled as much as possible, and their water accumulation conditions should be assessed. A detailed study should be carried out on the water inflow volume, water quality, and their dynamic changes in operating mines and small coal mines, with an analysis of the factors contributing to water inflow. j) Basically determine the occurrence of other useful minerals. k) Estimate the proven, controlled, and inferred resource amounts/reserves of various mineable coal seams. 5.5.2.2 The extent of exploration for the pit area of a proposed small-scale mine can be adjusted according to the actual requirements of mine construction. 5.5.2.3 For existing mining mines that aim to expand the area of their mine field beyond what was specified in the originally approved geological report, the degree of exploration required for this expansion shall be determined by agreement between the explorer and the geological agency, taking into account the location of the expanded area within the mine field as well as the requirements associated with the expansion of the mine. 5.5.2.4 For proposed open-pit mines of medium size or larger with a high degree of mechanization, the extent of exploration work shall, in light of the characteristics of open-pit mining, meet the following requirements: a) The coal seams shall be clearly distinguished based on their individual characteristics. b) Strictly control the top and bottom interfaces of the coal seam outcrops in the areas where mining takes place first, as well as the shape of these outcrops after erosion. For the outcrops of the lowest coal seam in open-pit mining, the error in the depth of its floor should be kept within 5 meters. c) Thoroughly identify faults with a drop of 10 meters in the previously mined areas, control the orientation of folds, and ensure that the elevation of the fold axes remains within 10 meters. d) Thoroughly determine the number of intercalated layers, thickness, and lithology of each coal seam; for the intercalated layers that cannot be separated layer by layer, as well as the roof and floor rocks that may mix into the coal during mining, their quality characteristics such as ash content, sulfur content, calorific value, and true density should be determined. e) Basically identify other valuable minerals present in the stripped rock strata; for other minerals of industrial value, necessary geological data should be provided. f) Thoroughly investigate the distribution, thickness, and hydrogeological characteristics of the aquifers above the roof of the lowest mineable coal seam in surface mining, as well as the direct water-infilling aquifers below the floor of the coal seam; calculate the normal and maximum water inflow rates at the first level of surface mining; and assess the difficulty of dewatering the area during surface mining. g) Basically determine the lithology, thickness, and physico-mechanical properties of each rock layer in the open-pit slope; thoroughly understand the stratification, thickness, distribution, and physico-mechanical characteristics of weak interlayers; evaluate the main geological factors affecting slope stability; and basically determine the lithology, thickness, distribution, and physico-mechanical properties of the materials removed from the pit. h) The proportion of resources/reserves proven and controlled in the initially mined area shall be 10% higher than the requirements specified in Appendix E. 6 Degree of control in coal geological exploration 6.1 Coal geological exploration must involve the rational selection and use of various exploration methods such as geological mapping, geophysical surveys, drilling, and sampling tests, taking into account topographical, geological, and physical conditions. 6.2 Geological mapping shall be carried out in all exposed and semi-exposed areas, using borehole exploration along with other necessary geophysical methods on the surface. The scale used for geological mapping is generally as follows: a) In the preliminary exploration stage, it ranges from 1:50000 to 1:25000; b) In the general exploration stage, it also ranges from 1:50000 to 1:25000, although 1:10000 can also be used; c) In the detailed exploration stage, it ranges from 1:25000 to 1:10000, with 1:5000 also being an option. 6.3 In areas where the topographical, geological, and physical conditions are suitable, ground-based geophysical surveys combined with drilling should be the main methods, along with geological mapping, well logging, sampling tests, and other techniques, to carry out geological work at various stages. 6.4 In areas unsuitable for seismic exploration, as well as in exposed and semi-exposed areas, drilling should be carried out on the basis of trenching, well drilling, shallow drilling, surface geophysical surveys, and geological mapping. 6.5 Logging must be carried out for all boreholes. 6.6 In the preliminary and comprehensive exploration phases, coal core samples should be taken from all coal seams that reach the specified thickness in the boreholes; the mining areas from which these coal samples are taken and the testing procedures to be applied are determined with reference to Appendix F. 6.7 The degree of work control in open-pit exploration should, depending on the requirements of open-pit development, generally involve the use of parallel and equidistant cross-sections within the initial mining area; the spacing between these cross-sections can be half of the basic spacing used in the exploration phase of similar mine areas for the earlier stages of mining. 7 Classification of coal resources/reserves and their type criteria 7.1 Basis for resource/reserve classification 7.1.1 Degree of feasibility assessment The degree of feasibility assessment is divided into three categories: preliminary study, pre-feasibility study, and feasibility study. 7.1.2 Economic significance 7.1.2.1 Economically, its quantity and quality are calculated based on production indicators that correspond to market prices. Under the market conditions existing at the time of the feasibility study or pre-feasibility study, it is technically feasible and economically reasonable, and other conditions such as environmental factors also permit it; in other words, the average price of coal mined each year is sufficient to meet the requirements for return on investment. 7.1.2.2 Marginal economics: At the time of feasibility or pre-feasibility studies, mining is not economical, but it is close to the break-even point; it can become economical only in the future due to improvements in technical, economic, environmental conditions or **with other forms of support. 7.1.2.3 In this marginal economy, mining is uneconomical or technically unfeasible at the time of feasibility or pre-feasibility studies; it becomes economical only after the price of mineral products rises significantly or technological advancements reduce costs. 7.1.2.4 Economically viable: Only a preliminary study was conducted, and an assessment of investment opportunities was carried out; no feasibility study or pre-feasibility study was performed. 7.1.3 Geological reliability 7.2 Classification and type criteria for coal resources/reserves 7.2.1 Geological reliability of proven coal resources/reserves Proven coal resources/reserves must meet the following criteria in terms of geological reliability: a) The thickness and structure of the coal seams have been determined; the correlation between coal seams is reliable, the continuity of exploitable coal seams has been established, the type and quality characteristics of the coal as well as its technical properties have been identified, and the impact of igneous rocks on the coal seams and coal quality has been understood. b) The contour lines of the coal seam floor are strictly controlled; faults with a drop of 30 meters or more have been thoroughly identified. c) All exploration activities have met the requirements specified for the exploration phase. 7.2.2 Classification of proven coal resources/reserves 7.2.2.1 Recoverable reserves (111): The part of the proven economically viable reserves that can be extracted. The extent of the exploration work has met the requirements for the exploration stage, and a feasibility study was conducted, confirming that mining at the time of calculation was economical, and that the calculated recoverable reserves and the results of the feasibility assessment are reliable. 7.2.2.2 Proven (feasibility) economic reserve base (111b): The difference from (111) is that this type is expressed in terms of quantities without deducting for design and mining losses. 7.2.2.3 Pre-minable reserves (121): The difference from (111) is that for this type, only pre-feasibility studies have been conducted; the estimated minable reserves are highly reliable, while the reliability of the feasibility assessment results is generally moderate. 7.2.2.4 Proven (pre-feasibility) economic reserve base (121b): The difference from (121) is that this type is expressed in terms of quantities without deducting design mining losses. 7.2.2.5 Proven (feasibility) marginal economic base reserve (2M11): The level of exploration work has reached the requirements of the exploration stage; feasibility studies indicate that mining at that time would be uneconomical, but it is close to the break-even point, and it will only become economical once technical, economic, and other conditions improve. 7.2.2.6 Proven (pre-feasibility) marginal economic base reserve (2M21): The difference from (2M11) is that for this type only pre-feasibility studies have been conducted; the reliability of the estimated base reserve is high, while the reliability of the feasibility assessment results is generally moderate. 7.2.2.7 Exploited (feasibility-studied) submarginal economic resource volume (2S11): The degree of exploration has reached the requirements of the exploration stage, and feasibility studies show that mining at that time would be uneconomical; it would only become economical if mineral prices were significantly increased or costs were substantially reduced. 7.2.2.8 Proven (pre-feasibility) sub-marginal economic resource volume (2S21): The difference from (2S11) is that only pre-feasibility studies have been conducted for this type; the reliability of the resource volume estimates is high, while the reliability of the feasibility assessment results is generally moderate. 7.2.2.9 Inferred economic resource volume (331): The degree of exploration has met the requirements of the exploration stage. 7.2.3 Reliability of the location of controlled coal resources/reserves: The geological reliability of the controlled coal resources/reserves must meet the following conditions: a) The thickness and structure of the coal seams have been basically determined; the correlation between coal seams is reliable, the continuity of exploitable coal seams has been essentially established, the types and quality characteristics of coal as well as its technical properties have been basically identified, and the impact of igneous rocks on coal seams and coal quality has been basically understood. b) The contour lines of the coal seam floor have been largely determined, and faults with a drop of 50 meters or more have been essentially identified. c) All exploration projects have met the control requirements of the detailed exploration stage. 7.2.4 Classification of controlled coal resources/reserves 7.2.4.1 Pre-minable reserves (122): The level of exploration has reached the requirements of the detailed exploration stage; the results of the pre-feasibility study indicate that mining is economic, the reliability of the estimated mineable reserves is high, while the reliability of the feasibility study results is moderate. 7.2.4.2 Economically viable reserves under control (122b): The difference from (122) is that this category is expressed in terms of quantities without deducting for design and mining losses. 7.2.4.3 Economically viable reserve under control (2M22): The level of exploration work has reached the requirements of the detailed exploration stage. Pre-feasibility study results indicate that mining at that time would be uneconomical, but it is close to the break-even point; it could become economical once technical and economic conditions improve in the future. 7.2.4.4 Controlled submarginal economic resource volume (2S22): The level of exploration has reached the requirements of the detailed exploration stage, and pre-feasibility studies indicate that mining at that time would be uneconomical; it would only become economical if the price of the mineral products increased significantly or production costs were reduced substantially. 7.2.4.5 Geological reliability of inferred coal resources/reserves: The inferred coal resource volume must meet the following requirements in terms of geological reliability: a) The thickness and structure of the coal seams have been preliminarily determined; coal seam correlation is fairly reliable, and the types and quality characteristics of the coal have been roughly established. b) The occurrence of the coal seams has been preliminarily identified, and the contour lines of the coal seam floors have been roughly determined. c) All exploration activities have met the requirements of the reconnaissance stage. 7.2.6 Classification of inferred coal resources/reserves: Inferred internal economic resource volume (333): The level of exploration work meets the requirements of the reconnaissance stage. 7.2.7 Predicted resource amount (334)? The extent of the exploration work meets the requirements of the pre-exploration stage. 8 Coal Resources/Reserves Estimation 8.1 Indicators for Calculating Coal Resource Quantities 8.2 Basic Requirements for Dividing Blocks for Calculating Various Types of Resource Quantities 8.2.1 When dividing blocks of various types, the boundaries should, in principle, be set at exploration lines, contour lines of the coal seam floor, or major structural lines that provide the desired level of control. 8.2.2 When delineating proven and controlled blocks across a fault, a range of 30 meters to 50 meters on each side of the fault shall be designated as inferred blocks. 8.2.3 In areas where small structures and sinkholes are present, no proven or controlled areas should be designated. 8.2.4 The division of blocks at various levels for open-pit exploration is not affected by the increase in the density of parallel and equidistant profiles within the initial mining area. 8.3 General requirements for resource/reserve estimation 8.3.1 The vertical depth used in estimation during the pre-survey and survey phases is generally 1,000 meters, with a maximum of 1,200 meters; in areas suitable only for the construction of small wells, it is generally 600 meters, with a maximum of 1,000 meters. 8.3.2 Coal or its industrial uses should be estimated separately depending on the case. 8.3.3 The quality of various exploration results and basic data utilized in resource/reserve estimation shall be reliable. 8.3.4 When the inclination angle of the coal seam is less than 60 degrees, the resources/reserves are estimated on a plan view; when the inclination angle is 60 degrees or greater, estimation should be carried out on a vertical view or an elevation diagram. 8.3.5 When the inclination of the coal seam is less than 15 degrees, the resource/reserve can be estimated using the pseudo-thickness and horizontal projection area of the coal seam; when the inclination is 15 degrees or more, estimation must be based on the true thickness and inclined area of the coal seam. 8.3.6 For areas where the coal seam thickness is extremely thick, thin, or unsuitable for mining, the reasons behind these conditions should be analyzed, and appropriate measures should be taken based on the specific circumstances. 8.3.7 The estimation methods for resources/reserves and various estimation parameters should be determined reasonably based on specific circumstances. 8.4 Method for determining thickness in coal seams with intercalated gangue 8.4.1 For intercalated gangue layers in the coal seam whose thickness is less than 0.05 meters, they can be combined with the coal layer when calculating the thickness; however, the ash and sulfur content of the entire layer after including this gangue must meet the specified limits. 8.4.2 When the thickness of the intercalated gangue in the coal seam is equal to or greater than the minimum exploitable thickness of the coal seam, such coal layers should be considered as separate coal seams, with their resources/reserves estimated individually. If the thickness of the intercalated gangue is less than the minimum exploitable thickness of the coal seam, and the thicknesses of all the coal layers are equal to or greater than that of the gangue, then the thicknesses of the upper and lower coal layers can be added together to determine the applicable thickness. 8.4.3 In coal seams with complex structures and composite coal seams where it is not possible to conduct stratification comparison, when the total thickness of the intercalated gangue does not exceed 1/2 of the total thickness of each coal layer stratum, the total thickness of each coal layer stratum shall be used as the applicable thickness for that coal seam. When the total thickness of the intercalated gangue exceeds 1/2 of the total thickness of the coal layer strata, the provisions of sections 8.4.1 and 8.4.2 shall apply. 8.5 Estimation of gangue and overburden in coal seams during open-pit exploration 8.5.1 Requirements for estimating gangue in coal seams: a) The gangue content should be estimated separately for each mineable coal seam. b) Gangue layers with a thickness of 1 meter or more, as well as those with a thickness of less than 1 meter, should have their gangue contents estimated separately. 8.5.2 Requirements for estimating overburden: a) The amount of overburden from the Quaternary deposits and the rock layers above the coal seams should be estimated separately, based on the determined open-pit boundaries. b) In open-pit mines with multiple coal seams, the amount of overburden to be removed between the coal seams shall be estimated separately. c) Based on the estimated amount of stripping and the resources/reserves of the coal seam to be mined, estimate the maximum, minimum, and average stripping ratio. 9 Exploration for coalbed methane and other valuable minerals 9.1 The exploration for coalbed methane and other valuable minerals is generally carried out through various coal exploration projects; when necessary, some specialized exploration projects and testing studies may also be conducted. 9.2 The requirements for the exploration of coalbed methane and other valuable minerals at various stages shall be implemented in accordance with the relevant regulations, and the evaluation criteria shall be followed as stipulated for related minerals. 10 Peat Geological Exploration 10.1 Preliminary Peat Survey: Based on regional geological data and predictive information, preliminary field observations and a small amount of engineering verification are carried out to identify areas suitable for further exploration. The estimated predicted resource volume can be calculated when there is sufficient evidence. 10.2 Peat Survey 10.2.1 Purpose To initially determine the distribution, volume, and quality of peat resources, providing a basis for further detailed investigations. 10.2.2 Task 10.2.2.1 Initially determine the distribution area of peat in the region, as well as the number of layers, their thickness, and quality. 10.2.2.2 Gain a preliminary understanding of the geological, geomorphological, and hydrogeological conditions under which peat is formed, as well as the types of peat formation. 10.2.2.3 Short cobaltate legs and predicted resource amounts. 10.2.2.4 Preliminarily evaluate the technical and economic conditions for the exploitation and utilization of peat. 10.2.3 Working Methods 10.2.3.1 Data Collection: Review previous research findings and study relevant data on regional geology and hydrogeology to identify prospective mineralization areas. 10.2.3.2 Visit, survey, and understand the distribution and utilization of peat resources. Develop a census work plan. 10.2.3.3 Field work base map. 10.2.4 Exploration methods and construction requirements: It is necessary to proceed from geological objectives and economic considerations, and select exploration tools and methods based on geological conditions, topography, peat burial conditions, and ore seam thickness. 10.2.5 Sampling and Sample Analysis 10.2.5.1 For mineral sites with an area of less than 0.5 square kilometers, one to three samples should be taken; for those with an area greater than 0.5 square kilometers, no fewer than 3 samples are required, in order to determine the quality of the peat and to conduct a preliminary assessment of its potential for comprehensive utilization. 10.2.5.2 Sampling method: Depending on the specific circumstances, pit digging, grooving, or drilling can be used for sampling, and detailed sampling records must be kept. 10.2.5.3 Sample quality: For the exposed peat in swamps at present, the mass of the wet sample should be no less than 2 kilograms, while the mass of buried peat samples should be no less than 1 kilogram. 10.2.5.4 Packaging and Sample Submission: Samples are generally packaged in plastic bags or other materials that are resistant to contamination; the sample label is placed between two layers of plastic bags and sealed with adhesive tape outside. 10.2.5.5 Number of peat sample collections and general analysis items: These are mainly determined based on the needs of comprehensive utilization evaluation. 10.3 Detailed peat survey: In the areas identified for detailed investigation as part of the preliminary survey, high-scale geological mapping along with various exploration methods and techniques are employed, along with more frequent systematic sampling, in order to assess whether the peat resources in these areas have industrial value. 10.4 Peat exploration 10.4.1 Purpose: To determine in detail the scale, reserves, and quality of the ore bodies within the area identified for detailed peat investigation, and to provide a comprehensive assessment. 10.4.2 Tasks: a) Thoroughly determine the distribution range, area, thickness of the peat layers, number of such layers, as well as the patterns of changes in peat quality; b) Detailedly investigate the geological, geomorphological, and hydrogeological characteristics associated with the peat, in order to identify its genetic type and age of formation; c) Accurately define the boundaries of the peat deposits, monitor variations within these layers, and estimate the proven, controlled, and inferred resources/reserves. d) Evaluation of the technical and economic conditions for peat extraction and utilization 10.4.3 Work requirements: a) For topographic and geological surveys, it is appropriate to use a topographic base map scale of (1:5000) to (1:10000). Through geological mapping, the stratigraphic sequence, lithological composition, and age of the strata in the mining area should be determined; the density of observation points should be such that the geological structures can be adequately characterized. b) Conduct hydrogeological surveys to determine the recharge and discharge conditions of groundwater and surface water, and calculate the flow rate of water. c) The engineering grid spacing generally requires construction to be carried out according to the grid spacing that meets the standards for identified resources/reserves. 10.4.4 Sampling methods and sample analysis: Sampling is carried out in a natural stratified or equidistant manner, with the sample length generally not exceeding 1 meter. 10.5 Peat resources/reserves estimation 10.5.1 Peat grades and resources/reserves 10.5.1.1 The grade of peat is determined by its organic matter content; it is divided into two grades: sub-peat with an organic matter content of 30%~50%, and peat with an organic matter content greater than 50%. 10.5.1.2 Based on the specific characteristics of peat mineral resources, their resource/reserve classification is as follows: a) Proven: These are the resources/reserves that serve as the basis for mining design in a mine area; the requirements for this category are: 1) The shape, occurrence, and thickness variations of the ore bodies can be accurately determined, allowing for precise delineation of their boundaries; 2) The grade of the peat can be identified, along with patterns in its quality; 3) Interlayers that affect the reserve volume of the ore bodies can be identified; 4) The thickness of overlying layers, as well as changes in their lithology and lithofacies, can be determined. b) Controlled: These resources/reserves provide a basis for further exploration efforts and for formulating plans for the development and utilization of peat resources; the requirements for this category are: 1) The shape, occurrence, and thickness variations of the ore bodies can be basically determined, with the boundaries of the main ore bodies needing to be established through engineering methods; 2) The grade and quality variations can be basically identified; 3) Interlayers such as sediment and decayed wood that have a significant impact on the ore bodies have been identified; 4) An initial understanding of the thickness of overlying layers, as well as changes in their lithology and lithofacies, is available. c) Inferred: These are estimates used to plan further geological surveys and mine construction; an initial understanding of the extent of the ore bodies, their thickness, occurrence, and quality is required. d) Predicted: These are estimates of resource quantities derived from preliminary investigations in areas where peat resources are believed to exist, using sufficient data and information. 10.5.2 General guidelines for resource/reserve estimation 10.5.2.1 Estimation criteria: The organic matter content of peat must be 30% or higher. 10.5.2.2 For the estimation of resources/reserves in mineral bodies with complex structures, when interlayers are 0.1 meter or more, they should be excluded, and the resources/reserves should be estimated on a layer-by-layer basis. 10.5.2.3 Peat resources/reserves are estimated based on the actually explored resources, and the estimation does not include goafs. 10.5.2.4 The estimation unit is in dry tons (10,000 tons). 11 Data compilation, comprehensive research, and report preparation 11.1 The basic requirements for the compilation of original data are as follows: a) In accordance with the requirements of the exploration design and relevant regulations, the original records and data from various exploration projects must be complete, accurate, truthful, and reliable. b) Geological and hydrogeological phenomena observed in natural outcrops and as revealed by various exploration projects must be observed, identified, and described in accordance with specified contents and requirements; all observation and measurement records must be processed, interpreted, and organized promptly. c) The procedures, formats, contents, presentation methods, and terminology used in the compilation of original data must comply with relevant standard specifications. d) All original records, compiled data, as well as physical materials such as core samples, specimens, etc., must be properly stored in accordance with relevant regulations, to ensure the creation of a complete archive of original data. 11.2 In accordance with the principle of carrying out exploration and construction simultaneously, analyzing and studying the collected data at the same time, and adjusting and modifying the design as needed, the data obtained through various exploration techniques should be analyzed, studied, and utilized in a timely and thorough manner. 11.3 The preparation of geological reports for each stage shall, in principle, be carried out in accordance with the requirements specified in the relevant guidelines for compiling geological reports.