Engineering Journal of Satbayev University

Investigation of the physico-mechanical properties of cohesive soils in deluvial-proluvial (QII-III) and alluvial (QIII-IV) deposits of the Alakol Depression

M.M. Alzhigitova — 2025-02-28

When conducting engineering and geological surveys, one of the main tasks is to determine the physical and mechanical properties of soils. The physical properties of soils are necessary for accurate soil classification, while the mechanical properties are essential for calculating the stability of foundations, as well as the foundations of buildings and structures. This article presents the results of a study on the physico-mechanical properties of cohesive soils in deluvial-proluvial and alluvial deposits of the Alakol depression. Modern geological processes and phenomena in this region are mainly influenced by human engineering and economic activities, particularly land reclamation and construction. Until the 1960s, the development of certain UCPs (Unified Classification Points) was sporadic. The erosion activity of water flows was primarily observed during spring floods and heavy rains, leading to the washout and collapse of riverbanks. Deflation was evident in the Aeolian reworking of alluvial-lacustrine deposits, resulting in the formation of blow basins, sand dunes, wind ripples, and other microrelief features. Additionally, salinization and waterlogging led to the widespread development of salt marshes and puffin formations in areas with shallow groundwater levels.

Substantiating applicability of Western Donbas coal seams (Ukraine) for underground coal gasification

V.S. Falshtynskyi — 2025-02-28

The paper studies areas of coal seams in the Western Donbass (Ukraine), which can potentially be suitable for underground coal gasification (UCG) technology, which, in the conditions of the difficult energy situation in Ukraine, can significantly affect the consumer market of energy carriers. On the basis of a detailed research on the mining-geological and mining-technical conditions of ten sites according to the criteria for their suitability for UCG, the optimal site and coal seam have been chosen. The structures of coal seams, side rocks (roof, bottom), the location and size of tectonic disturbances, hydrogeological conditions, as well as the technical and elemental composition of coal have been analyzed. Based on the conducted research, it has been determined that it is recommended to place the experimental underground gas generator on the C₅ coal seam of # 4 site, located on the territory with the most developed infrastructure and optimal criteria for gasification suitability. The practical significance of the research is in the fact that the experience of mining the UCG # 4 site of the experimental gas generator allows adjusting the technology parameters for subsequent industrial replication. The proposed approach to the selection of a site and a coal seam can also be tested in other coal deposits with similar mining-geological and mining-technical conditions.

Optimization of water resources use in agriculture of Yenbekshi-Kazakh District through artificial groundwater recharge

A.Zh. Ismagulova — 2025-02-28

In the context of increasing water resource scarcity, the search for alternative irrigation sources has become a key factor in the sustainable development of agriculture. One of the effective solutions is the reconstruction and creation of cascades of water accumulation ponds, which significantly improve the reliability of the water reuse system. The implementation of this practice has notably enhanced irrigated farming conditions, especially during drought periods. In the villages of Baiterek, Alga, and Koishibek, the water supply issue has been largely mitigated, leading to the return of 1420 hectares of previously abandoned land to agricultural use. These lands are now actively used for growing crops, ensuring stable production. Over 300 farms now have access to a dependable irrigation water supply, which contributes to the development of the agricultural sector and reduces drought-related risks. Thus, the use of water accumulation systems demonstrates high efficiency and significance for food security and the resilience of agriculture in a changing climate.

Economic analysis of the processing of various titanium-containing raw materials to obtain titanium, vanadium, and niobium

T.K. Sarsembekov — 2025-02-28

This work presents an economic analysis of processing various titanium-containing raw materials-titanium slag and synthetic rutile-through chlorination in a molten salt medium in the presence of carbon. The processing of titanium-containing raw materials is carried out using a chlorination technology in molten alkali metal salts (MgCl₂, NaCl, KCl) with high-concentration gaseous chlorine in the presence of a carbon-containing reducing agent. Anthracite is used as the reducing agent, while waste sludge from magnesium electrolysis is used as the molten medium. The processing takes place in cylindrical chlorination furnaces lined with fireclay bricks at temperatures of 720-800°C. The chlorination products are directed to a condensation system. The work provides a description of the Satpayev ilmenite deposit in East Kazakhstan and presents the chemical composition of Satpayev ilmenite concentrate, titanium slag, and synthetic rutile obtained through various processes. A correlation is established between the vanadium, niobium, and tantalum content in ilmenite concentrates and their prevalence in the Earth's crust. Based on this correlation, the order of transition metals in Group V of the periodic table is determined according to their decreasing concentration in the concentrates. Technological challenges associated with processing titanium-containing raw materials with elevated levels of certain components are described, along with some methods for producing synthetic rutile. A cost comparison is provided for the production of titanium slag and synthetic rutile. Material balance calculations for the chlorination process of titanium slag and synthetic rutile from different production methods are performed to assess raw material costs and waste disposal expenses. The study concludes that producing synthetic rutile from Satpayev ilmenite concentrate is economically feasible.

Production of iron oxide pigment from the metallic component of ilmenite smelting

B.K. Kenzhaliyev — 2025-02-28

The smelting of off-grade ilmenite concentrates from the Obukhovskoye deposit results in the generation of significant quantities of reduced iron, which presents an opportunity for its utilization in the production of iron oxide pigments. The transformation of industrial waste into value-added materials aligns with contemporary trends in sustainable materials science. This study investigates the precipitation of divalent iron from sulfuric and hydrochloric acid solutions using ammonia to form goethite, focusing on the influence of magnesium impurities on the precipitation process. The presence of magnesium was found to inhibit the formation of goethite, leading to a significant reduction in pigment yield and quality. A ferriferous solution was prepared by dissolving finely divided reduced iron in sulfuric acid, followed by the precipitation of iron oxides using a 25% ammonia solution. The synthesized iron oxide pigment was further refined through hydrogen peroxide treatment, ensuring a more uniform pigment composition and improved color stability. This approach offers a viable method for the recycling of industrial by-products while simultaneously addressing environmental concerns related to waste disposal. The findings contribute to the advancement of resource-efficient pigment synthesis techniques, demonstrating the potential for utilizing metallurgical waste as a precursor for high-quality iron oxide pigments suitable for various industrial applications.

Investigation of self-propagating high-temperature synthesis based on TiB+Ti composite powders

A. Myrzakhan — 2025-02-28

This article considers modern methods of increasing wear resistance and reliability of machine parts using composite materials, especially in the field of powder surfacing and synthesis of metal-matric composites. One of the effective methods is self-propagating high-temperature synthesis (SHS), which allows obtaining composite coatings with improved mechanical and thermal properties. Powder surfacing methods, such as electron beam surfacing (EBF), provide wear-resistant, heat-resistant and hardening coatings on a titanium base. Powders of titanium and its alloys are obtained by reduction of oxides with calcium hydride, which contributes to the formation of materials with high strength and good flowability. Special attention is paid to titanium boride as a strengthening phase for composites. The use of these technologies contributes to a significant increase in the durability and reliability of machines and mechanisms, which leads to resource saving and reduction of operating costs. The studies include the analysis of structural characteristics of the obtained powders and coatings, as well as the determination of their physical and mechanical properties. The variations in these properties as a function of the titanium binder content in the composite powder are analyzed. The description of the microstructure of powders and coatings, as well as the influence of composition on their characteristics, allows us to draw conclusions about the possibility of using these materials to create functional coatings with improved performance characteristics, such as increased wear resistance and heat resistance. The results of the study can be useful for the development of new materials with improved operational properties for use in various industries.