Geology and environmental effects of asphaltite quarries within the borders of Sirnak province, central and silopi districts

This master's thesis investigates the geological characteristics, reserve potential, and environmental impacts of asphaltite deposits located within the boundaries of the Central and Silopi districts of Şırnak Province, Türkiye. The study area, covering approximately 150 km², was mapped using 1:25,000 scale topographic sheets. High-resolution orthophoto and point cloud data were obtained using Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) technology, and digital maps were generated. Geological data and drilling information were integrated into these maps. As a result of reserve modeling conducted for the Avgamasya vein, a total of 6,996,105 tons of asphaltite reserves were identified. Asphaltite, with a calorific value ranging between 3,000 and 6,000 kcal/kg, is considered a significant energy source. According to the General Directorate of Mineral Research and Exploration (MTA), the total asphaltite reserve in Türkiye is approximately 82 million tons. In this study, 4,384 kg and 3,400 kg of asphaltite samples were collected from the Avgamasya vein and analyzed in the laboratory. The analyses indicated that the asphaltite has a moisture content of 1–2%, ash content between 35–44%, and sulfur content between 4–7%. The initial calorific value of 30 MJ/kg was increased to 36.26 MJ/kg through various enrichment methods. To reduce environmental impacts, flotation reduced the ash content to 32.95%, while agglomeration lowered it to 27%. In chemical leaching, the combination of 5% NaOH and 40% HF solutions reduced ash content to 13.89% and sulfur content to 2.49%. Gravity and flotation methods achieved a combustible matter recovery rate of 75%. The environmental assessments revealed negative impacts on both water sources and air quality during asphaltite usage. Water samples collected from the field indicated chemical contamination. Air quality evaluations showed that sulfur dioxide (SO₂) emissions could potentially exceed the regulatory limit of 350 µg/m³ set by national standards. Furthermore, analysis of asphaltite ash showed the presence of heavy metals, including 2,118 ppm molybdenum, 2,447 ppm nickel, 231 ppm copper, and 31 ppm selenium. The 405 MW capacity thermal power plant currently operating in the Şırnak-Silopi region exemplifies the use of asphaltite as a primary energy source. In addition to energy production, asphaltite is utilized in various industrial applications, such as asphalt production, paint, insulation materials, tires, ink, and ammonia production. In conclusion, the asphaltite deposits in the Şırnak region hold significant potential for energy generation. However, due to the high ash and sulfur content, environmental considerations must be prioritized, and purification processes should be implemented before use. This study recommends the adoption of reserve-based planning, expansion of underground mining methods, and enhancement of occupational safety standards. It also provides a comprehensive overview of current and proposed methods to mitigate the environmental impacts resulting from the energy use of asphaltite.