Review Paper:
A State-of-the-Art
Review on the Applications of Sensors in the Mining Industry
Mohan Himanshu and Avchar Akhil
Disaster Advances; Vol. 18(5); 209-215;
doi: https://doi.org/10.25303/185da2090215; (2025)
Abstract
As the mining industry undergoes a transformative revolution driven by technological
innovation, this State-of-the-Art review meticulously charts the trajectory of sensor
applications, unraveling their profound impact on every facet of mining operations.
Through a comprehensive analysis of contemporary literature and cutting-edge research,
this review serves as an indispensable guide, offering an in-depth exploration of
the multifaceted applications, challenges and future prospects of sensors in mining.
The review begins by elucidating the fundamental principles of sensor technology,
providing a solid foundation for understanding the diverse sensor types employed
in the mining domain. Moving beyond mere enumeration, it categorizes sensor applications
into three pivotal domains: real-time equipment monitoring, environmental sensing
and automated data analytics. Each domain is dissected to reveal the latest advancements,
showcasing how sensors are transforming the mining landscape by enhancing safety,
optimizing operational efficiency and promoting environmental sustainability. In
the realm of real-time equipment monitoring, the review scrutinizes the integration
of sensors for predictive maintenance, condition monitoring and performance optimization.
Environmental sensing takes center stage as the review explores how sensors are
instrumental in hazard detection, air quality monitoring and environmental impact
assessment, fostering a safer and ecologically responsible mining ecosystem.
This review includes the challenges inherent in sensor deployment, addressing issues
of interoperability, data security and scalability. Practical considerations for
navigating the dynamic and often harsh mining environment are discussed, providing
a holistic perspective for industry practitioners. This review can provide strategic
roadmap to harness the full potential of sensor technologies in steering mining
operations towards a sustainable, efficient and technologically advanced operation.
