Mining Techniques and EconomicsMineral Processing and GrindingIron and Steelmaking Processes

Hossein Zarbi Holag, M. Osanloo, Sajjad Afraei

2026.2.27International Journal of Mining Reclamation and Environment

DOI: 10.1080/17480930.2026.2636636

Abstract

This study develops a novel data-driven framework to minimise energy consumption and CO2 emissions in copper mine crushing systems. Unlike previous works, it compares single-unit and multi-unit configurations from an environmental perspective. Using a Random Forest model, key design parameters are identified and ranked. K-means clustering then groups operational data into four representative clusters, and Particle Swarm Optimization determines the optimal variable combination, reducing the objective function. Results show stable convergence and demonstrate that the proposed hybrid approach significantly enhances energy efficiency and reduces the carbon footprint in crushing operations.

Citation format

HOLAG, Hossein Zarbi; OSANLOO, M.; AFRAEI, Sajjad. Data-driven optimisation of crushing system configuration in large-scale copper mines to reduce CO 2 emissions. International Journal of Mining Reclamation and Environment, 2026: 1–26.