SOLUTION MINING RESEARCH INSTITUTE (SMRI)-ISSUES AND IMPACT FOR THE MINING AND STORAGE CAVERN INDUSTRY

摘要

This paper serves as an introduction to the Solution Mining Research Institute, (SMRI) and describes objectives and activities of the organization. Starting with a brief history of SMRI, the paper describes the organization's research and educational objectives and the methods used to successfully achieve the research goals determined by SMRI members from around the world. Since the 8th Salt Symposium in The Hague in 2000, the SMRI international membership has grown, and interest in solution mining of salt, potash, and trona has been driven by economic growth. The world's energy interests have become focused on storage in solution-mined caverns as an adaptable tool capable of helping meet peak or seasonal energy demands. The SMRI's most active research subject areas are determined by member and industry surveys. The Research Coordinator and Research Committee prioritize subjects and determine the most practical topics addressing research needs, then issue public 'requests for proposals', (RFPs) which solicit proposals for new research. Proposals are carefully scored and compared, then recommendations are presented to and voted on by the SMRI membership. Research projects completed since the 8th Salt Symposium are listed in the paper, and active projects are briefly described. Several technologies are being emphasized for the SMRI to provide unique and added value to its members and the public, and they will also be discussed including: web based communications, industry specific software, and expanded on-line references.