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Item ‟Assessment of Soil Erosion, Contamination, and Rehabilitation Potential in Mongolian Mining Regions: A Case Study in the Erdenet Copper and Molybdenum, and Baganuur Coal Mining Areas”(Von der Fakultät für Georessourcen und Materialtechnik der Rheinisch-Westfälischen Technischen Hochschule Aachen, 2024-07-04) Enkhjargal Sodnomdarjaa, M.; Univ.-Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Frank Lehmkuhl; Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Daniel KartheMining plays a vital role in Mongolia’s economy, contributing significantly to export revenue. However, this economic benefit often comes at the cost of environmental degradation, particularly in regions surrounding major mining sites like the Baganuur lignite mine and the Erdenet copper-molybdenum mine. This study examines the long-term impacts of mining on soil erosion and contamination in Mongolia’s semi-arid steppe zones, aiming to provide insights into the extent of degradation and propose strategies for mitigation and rehabilitation. The study quantifies soil erosion rates in mining regions utilizing the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) model, remote sensing data, and ground truth observations spanning nearly three decades (1989-2018). Results show a clear correlation between rainfall erosivity and soil erosion, particularly noting peak erosion in July 2018 in both study areas, reaching 7.88 t ha-1month-1 in the Erdenet area and 9.46 t ha-1month-1 in the Baganuur area. Additionally, the spatial distribution of erosion underscores localized impacts near mining sites and adjacent industrial zones. In addition, erosion due to mining activities has led to soil contamination with Heavy Metals and Metalloids (HMM), posing ecological and health risks. Various indices, such as the Potential Ecological Risk Index (RI), Nemerow Integrated Pollution Index (PIN), and Geoaccumulation Index (Igeo), are used to assess soil contamination levels. Findings reveal elevated concentrations of elements such as Zn and As in the Baganuur mining area, and of Cu, Cr, and Zn in the Erdenet mining area. These concentrations exceed the Maximum Permissible Level (MPL) of Mongolian Soil quality standard (MNS 5850:2019), particularly in proximity to mining and industrial areas. This underscores the urgent need for soil rehabilitation initiatives to mitigate environmental and health hazards. Beyond soil degradation, mining activities have broader environmental and socioeconomic consequences. The study evaluates these impacts, emphasizing the importance of science-based rehabilitation plans and robust implementation of environmental regulations aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). Continuous environmental assessments and rehabilitation initiatives are supported to ensure the long-term sustainability of Mongolia’s mining sector, safeguarding both natural ecosystems and local communities. Based on the study findings, several recommendations emerge for mitigating soil degradation and promoting sustainable mining practices in Mongolia. These include:- Implementation of erosion control measures, such as vegetative cover and terracing, to reduce soil erosion rates in mining regions. - Adoption of soil remediation techniques, including phytoremediation and chemical stabilization, to address soil contamination and restore ecosystem health. - Strengthening of environmental regulations and enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance with national standards and promote responsible mining practices. - Integration of environmental considerations into mine planning and operation processes, emphasizing the importance of continuous environmental impact assessments and monitoring. By comprehensively understanding the drivers and consequences of soil erosion and contamination, stakeholders such as mining companies, government agencies, local communities, and environmental organizations can collaboratively devise and implement effective mitigation and rehabilitation strategies. This concerted effort aims to ensure the long-term sustainability of Mongolia’s mining sector and the well-being of its inhabitants and wildlife, all while promoting sustainable development.Item NATURAL REHABILITATION POTENTIAL IN MINING AREAS(GMIT, 2023) Oyun-erdene Tsogtsaikhan; 1st Supervisor: Dr. Martin Knippertz; 2nd Supervisor: Prof. Ph.D. Gantuya GanbatItem DESIGN AND ANALYSIS OF A HYBRID RENEWABLE MICROGRID SYSTEM FOR MINE SITES IN SOUTHWEST OF MONGOLIA(GMIT, 2023) ERDENETSOGT Turbat; 1st Supervisor: Prof. Ph.D. Ariunbolor Purvee; 2nd Supervisor: Prof. Dr. Thomas HollenbergThis thesis focuses on the design and analysis of a renewable microgrid system for mines in the southwest of Mongolia, with an emphasis on addressing the energy-intensive nature of mining, diesel use, and CO2 emissions. As a country abundant in renewable energy resources, Mongolia presents a unique opportunity to achieve sustainable solutions in the mining sector. However, despite proven renewable technology and a renewable-rich country, most mining companies have yet to adopt renewable solutions. The methodology employed in this study encompasses several key steps. Firstly, an overview of the legal frameworks and regulations about renewable energy deployment in the mining sector in Mongolia is conducted. Next, a concept design phase is undertaken, integrating solar, wind, energy storage, and diesel generators to create an off-grid hybrid system tailored to the mine's energy requirements. Considerations such as load demand, resource availability, and system reliability are taken into account during the design phase. Modeling and simulation techniques are employed to assess performance and feasibility, evaluating various scenarios to meet energy needs while minimizing diesel fuel usage and CO2 emissions. Furthermore, a detailed business case is developed, considering the initial capital investment, operational costs, and potential financial benefits of the renewable microgrid system. The analysis includes factors such as the payback period, return on investment (ROI), and levelized cost of electricity (LCOE), providing insights into the economic viability of the system for mining operations in Mongolia. The analysis revealed that incorporating a wind turbine in the off-grid hybrid system increased the renewable energy fraction from 28.6% (PV + energy storage) to 88.1% (PV+ energy storage + wind turbine), resulting in a significant reduction in the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) and operating costs over the life of the mine. However, PV energy systems with a peak capacity of 6 MW offered a more reliable and consistent energy source compared to wind turbines due to low wind speeds and higher installation costs associated with taller hub heights (>50m).Item Design and Simulation of a Regenerative Braking System for Small Electric Vehicles(GMIT, 2025) Sumiyadorj Rentsennorov; 1 st Supervisor: Prof. Ph.D. Sungchil Lee; 2 nd Supervisor: Ph.D. Kim Young SukSmall electric vehicles (SEVs), such as e-scooters and e-bikes, are becoming increasingly important for sustainable urban transport. However, their limited battery capacity significantly constrains range and usability, particularly in cities like Ulaanbaatar, where cold weather and limited charging infrastructure further exacerbate these issues. This thesis investigates the design, simulation, and prototype testing of a regenerative braking system (RBS) specifically tailored for lightweight SEVs, to improve energy efficiency through kinetic energy recovery during deceleration. The research begins with an exploration of the historical development and theoretical principles behind regenerative braking, including electromagnetic induction, Lenz’s Law, and energy conservation. A simulation model was developed in MATLAB/Simulink to replicate a realistic SEV drivetrain using a 12V brushed DC motor, an H-bridge inverter, a lithium-ion battery, and a control logic system for modulating torque. Simulations were performed under both regenerative and non-regenerative scenarios. The results showed that when braking was applied, the system recovered approximately 4.48 joules of energy from 38.87 joules consumed, achieving an energy recovery efficiency of 11.52%. In contrast, the coasting scenario confirmed zero energy recovery, highlighting the effectiveness of controlled regenerative braking. To validate the simulation, a hardware prototype was built using an Arduino Uno, L298N motor driver, ACS712 (1) current sensor, and a 14.8V 2800mAh battery pack. The prototype ran a similar 10-second drive-brake cycle, with real-time current and power readings collected to calculate energy use and recovery. While the simulation demonstrated ideal regenerative behavior, the physical system was limited by the L298N’s unidirectional current flow, allowing only dynamic braking but not true regeneration. Nevertheless, the prototype showed measurable reverse current during braking and achieved a recovery efficiency of 8.76%, confirming the system’s potential with improved hardware. This work concludes that regenerative braking can offer tangible energy savings in SEVs and provides a foundational model for implementing RBS in low-cost, micro-mobility systems. Future improvements, such as upgrading the motor driver to a bidirectional regenerative controller and integrating supercapacitor storage, are recommended to maximize energy recovery and system performance.Item INTEGRATING FLOOD MITIGATION AND GROUNDWATER RECHARGE IN WATER SCARCE MINING AREA OF SOUTHERN GOBI MONGOLIA(GMIT, 2025) TUGULDUR Bat-itgelt; 1 st Supervisor: Dr. Ariuntuya Tserendorj; 2 nd Supervisor: Dr. Alireza ArabThe Gobi region of Mongolia, characterized by its arid climate and lack of natural groundwater recharge, is increasingly facing intense flash flood events due to climate change. Despite being a dryland, the area experiences short-duration, high-intensity rainfall events that generate destructive runoff. Compounding this challenge, the region’s mineral abundance is driving rapid growth in water demand, particularly for mining activities. Groundwater remains the sole water source, yet it is unsustainably extracted without natural replenishment. This thesis investigates a nature-based solution: harvesting flash floodwater to support groundwater sustainability through managed infiltration. A Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) approach integrated with the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) was applied using nine thematic layers (slope, soil type, land use, lithology, drainage density, lineament density, rainfall, groundwater depth, and runoff potential) to identify suitable zones for floodwater infiltration across a 1,600 km² study area. The Rational Method was employed to estimate the volume of runoff generated during a 5-year return period rainfall event. The analysis revealed that 35.04 km² (approximately 2%) of the total area is highly suitable for infiltration structures. Within this area, an estimated 1,013,256.86 m³ of floodwater can be harvested and redirected into aquifers per event. The findings support the strategic implementation of infiltration-based structures such as retention basins and recharge ponds to mitigate flood damage and enhance groundwater sustainability in climate-vulnerable, water-scarce mining regions.Item Investigation of Non-Chemical Methods for Wool Scouring Industrial Wastewater Treatment(GMIT, 2025) Narangua Khongorzul; 1 st Supervisor: Dr. Ariuntuya. Ts; 2 nd Supervisor: Mr. Baasandorj. MThis study investigates non-chemical technologies for treating wastewater from Mongolia’s cashmere and wool scouring industry. The treatment process consisted of three stages: primary clarification using an Imhoff cone, electrocoagulation using different electrode materials, and filtration with natural zeolite. The Imhoff cone removed approximately 50% of total suspended solids (TSS), reducing concentrations from about 1500 mg/L to 370 mg/L, showing effective pre-treatment through simple sedimentation. Electrocoagulation was carried out using three electrode types: Al–Al, Cu–Al, and Fe–Al. Among them, the Cu–Al electrode achieved the highest organic matter removal, reducing COD from 1789.67 mg/L to 23.2 mg/L and BOD₅ from 614 mg/L to 5.0 mg/L, thus meeting the MNS 6561:2024 Mongolian wastewater discharge standard. The Al–Al electrodes were most efficient for solid removal, while Fe–Al electrodes offered a balanced performance in reducing both organics and solids. In the final stage, natural zeolite filtration was used with 2 mm and 10 mm particle sizes. The 2 mm zeolite provided better COD removal (24.99% after 24 hours), although overall filtration performance was limited and not sufficient as a standalone treatment. The findings indicate that the combined process, especially Cu–Al electrocoagulation followed by zeolite filtration, is a cost-effective, low-maintenance, and promising method for treating wool scouring wastewater. To confirm scalability and long-term effectiveness, pilot-scale testing in real factory conditions is recommended.Item MARKET ANALYSIS OF COKING COAL PLANT: ERDENES TAVANTOLGOI JSC CASE STUDY(GMIT, 2025) GANTSETSEG Zorigt; Supervisor 1: Mr.DORJSUNDUI Gombokhurts; Supervisor 2: Mr.NYAMDAVAA DashdelegThis thesis assesses the market feasibility and strategic competitiveness of the proposed coking coal plant by Erdenes TavanTolgoi JSC (ETT), a major state-owned coal producer in Mongolia. The study analyzes global and regional coking coal demand trends, with a particular focus on China—ETT’s primary target market—and on emerging prospects in Japan and South Korea. Utilizing a combination of market research, scenario forecasting, and strategic risk analysis, the thesis evaluates ETT’s product quality, logistical advantages, competitive positioning, and long-term sustainability. The findings indicate that while global demand for coking coal is expected to peak in the mid-2021s and gradually decline, Asian markets will continue to provide short- to medium-term export opportunities. ETT’s coke blend complies with China’s Class II specifications and benefits from low-cost overland transport to inland steel hubs. Strategic analysis shows that ETT can strengthen its market position by leveraging infrastructure advantages, enhancing risk management practices, and diversifying exports to maintain competitiveness. The study concludes that the planned coke plant is economically viable and can support Mongolia’s broader goals of industrial diversification and value-added export development.Item MINERALS CRITICAL FOR MONGOLIA’S DEVELOPMENT: A SUGGESTION FOR CRITERIA:(GMIT, 2025) Enkhjin Enkhtur; 1 st Supervisor: Prof. Ph.D. Enkhzaya Chuluunbaatar; 2 nd Supervisor: Mr. Mendbayar MelschoMongolia is known as a resource-rich country and lacks a structured, proper methodology for identifying and prioritizing critical minerals essential for its long-term economic development and industrial development. With the global green energy transition, the demand for key minerals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, and rare earth elements is increasing due to their essential role in clean energy technologies. Developed countries are already securing their access to critical minerals, increasing competition in global markets by developing structured methodologies for classifying critical minerals based on economic importance, supply chain risks, and technological relevance. Meanwhile, Mongolia still lacks a systematic approach and risks missing strategic opportunities without a clear national policy to define and manage these minerals. This absence of policy and strategy clarity not only limits economic benefits but also hinders Mongolia’s ability to integrate into international supply chains, attract investment, and maximize the value of its mineral resources. Furthermore, this thesis work’s methodology is literature-based and reviews the methodology, experiences of the countries & their further works related to critical minerals by research and literature. This research addresses this gap by analysing existing approaches and proposing criteria that specifically fit Mongolia’s unique economic conditions, which aligns with the strategy of Mongolia’s development. Key factors such as economic security, industrial diversification, and sustainability are incorporated into the proposed classification criteriaItem A LITERATURE REVIEW ON THE INFLUENCE OF ATTACHMENT STYLES ON ACHIEVEMENT MOTIVATION AND THE BALANCE OF CHALLENGES AND THREATS AMONG JUNIOR WORKERS:(GMIT, 2025) Iveeltbayar Ganbat; 1st Supervisor: Prof. Ph.D. Enkhzaya Chuluunbaatar; 2nd Supervisor: Prof. Ph.D. Sungchil LeeItem DESIGN AND APPLICATION OF VISION-BASED ASSISTIVE ROBOTIC ARM FOR MATERIAL HANDLING IN INDUSTRIAL ENVIRONMENTS(GMIT, 2025) MERGENBAATAR Mandalsaikhan; 1 st Supervisor: Ph.D. Young Suk Kim; 2 nd Supervisor: M.Eng. Myagmarjav BoldThis thesis presents the design, implementation, and evaluation of a vision-guided assistive robotic arm system developed entirely in simulation using CoppeliaSim. Aimed at material-handling tasks in industrial environments, the system leverages classical image processing techniques, specifically blob detection and inverse kinematics, to perform real-time object localization and adaptive grasping. The robotic arm, modeled with five degrees of freedom and a dynamically actuated gripper, is guided by a ceiling-mounted vision sensor. Using Lua scripting and simIK-based control, the robot autonomously detects a cylindrical object, computes its pose, and executes a pick-and-place operation. Mechanical improvements to the gripper and tip alignment corrections were introduced to enhance grasp reliability. The system’s kinematic accuracy was validated using MATLAB, applying the Product of Exponentials formulation and comparing predicted and simulated end-effector orientations. Experimental results in simulation demonstrated a 100% grasp success rate post-modification, sub-centimeter placement error, and minimal deviation in predicted Euler angles. The system’s modular architecture, use of open-source tools, and demonstrated performance highlight its potential for low-cost prototyping and educational applications. Recommendations for future work include integrating closed-loop feedback, expanding object diversity, and bridging the simulation-to-reality gap through physical prototyping.