Muhammad Waqas

Interests

Teaching

Equipment Operations Technology, Surface Mine Planning and Design, Underground Construction Geomechanics, Mine Planning Software

Research

Discrete Element Modeling, Artificial Intelligence Modeling, Mining Equipment Operations, Geomechanics

Courses

Scholarly Contributions

Journals/Publications

• Fayyaz, A., Waqas, M., Asghar, H., Ahmed, R., Liaqat, U., Naseem, K., & Baig, M. A. (2026). Rapid elemental imaging of copper-bearing critical ores using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy coupled with PCA and PLS-DA. Talanta, 296(Issue). doi:10.1016/j.talanta.2025.128463
  More info

  This study presents the application of laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) for analyzing various copper-bearing critical ores with significant Cu concentrations. LIBS detected Cu as a base element, along with other minor elements including Al, C, Fe, Mg, Ni, Si, and Zn, under optimized experimental conditions that include 80 ± 0.3 mJ laser energy, 2 μs delay time, ∼500 μm spot size, and a 45° angle between the collecting lens and the sample surface. The energy-dispersive X-ray technique was employed to determine the elemental concentrations and spatial distributions within the sample, based on Kα, Kβ, and Lα characteristic lines. Quantitative analysis in LIBS is challenging due to matrix effects on line intensities, often requiring matrix-matched standards; however, the multielemental quality of LIBS spectra enables the detection of matrix types for accurate classification. In this contribution, we applied an unsupervised principal component analysis (PCA) on pre-processed LIBS data to reduce dimensionality and visualize clusters, showing that the first three principal components (PCs) account for 97.9 % of the total variance (PC1: 69.8 %, PC2: 20.3 %, PC3: 7.8 %). Elliptical PCA clustering with a 96 % confidence interval was achieved using SIMCA. A supervised partial least squares-discrimination analysis model is used to identify the variables that contribute most to classification. The model yields cumulative X and Y variances of 97.86 % and 99.96 %, respectively, with an R2 range of 0.83–0.99 across the first 6 factors. Furthermore, LIBS 2D mapping is carried out using Cu spectral lines at 510.6 (2P3/2 → 2D5/2), 515.3 (2D3/2 → 2P1/2), and 521.8 nm (2D5/2 → 2P3/2), and Zn at 481.1 nm (3S1 → 3P2), over 50 and 200 scans to visualize the element spatial distribution. Mapping is cross-validated using Pearson's correlation covering a 50 × 50 mm2 area, achieving ∼150 μm spatial resolution and an average root mean PRESS of ∼94 % with a high correlation of ∼0.989. The results show the efficiency of LIBS integrated with multivariate methods for pattern recognition, classification, and spatial analysis in the exploration of copper ores.
• Fayyaz, A., Waqas, M., Asghar, H., Ahmed, R., Liaqat, U., Naseem, K., & Baig, M. A. (2026). Rapid elemental imaging of copper-bearing critical ores using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy coupled with PCA and PLS-DA. Talanta, 296, 128463.
  More info

  This study presents the application of laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) for analyzing various copper-bearing critical ores with significant Cu concentrations. LIBS detected Cu as a base element, along with other minor elements including Al, C, Fe, Mg, Ni, Si, and Zn, under optimized experimental conditions that include 80 ± 0.3 mJ laser energy, 2 μs delay time, ∼500 μm spot size, and a 45° angle between the collecting lens and the sample surface. The energy-dispersive X-ray technique was employed to determine the elemental concentrations and spatial distributions within the sample, based on K, K, and L characteristic lines. Quantitative analysis in LIBS is challenging due to matrix effects on line intensities, often requiring matrix-matched standards; however, the multielemental quality of LIBS spectra enables the detection of matrix types for accurate classification. In this contribution, we applied an unsupervised principal component analysis (PCA) on pre-processed LIBS data to reduce dimensionality and visualize clusters, showing that the first three principal components (PCs) account for 97.9 % of the total variance (PC1: 69.8 %, PC2: 20.3 %, PC3: 7.8 %). Elliptical PCA clustering with a 96 % confidence interval was achieved using SIMCA. A supervised partial least squares-discrimination analysis model is used to identify the variables that contribute most to classification. The model yields cumulative X and Y variances of 97.86 % and 99.96 %, respectively, with an R range of 0.83-0.99 across the first 6 factors. Furthermore, LIBS 2D mapping is carried out using Cu spectral lines at 510.6 (P → D), 515.3 (D → P), and 521.8 nm (D → P), and Zn at 481.1 nm (S → P), over 50 and 200 scans to visualize the element spatial distribution. Mapping is cross-validated using Pearson's correlation covering a 50 × 50 mm area, achieving ∼150 μm spatial resolution and an average root mean PRESS of ∼94 % with a high correlation of ∼0.989. The results show the efficiency of LIBS integrated with multivariate methods for pattern recognition, classification, and spatial analysis in the exploration of copper ores.
• Fayyaz, A., Baig, M. A., Ahmed, R., & Waqas, M. (2025). Isotopic analysis of zinc plasma using Laser‒Ablation Time‒of‒Flight mass spectrometer. International Journal of Mass Spectrometry, 512(Issue). doi:10.1016/j.ijms.2025.117442
  More info

  In this study, we present the isotope analysis of zinc plasma using laser ablation time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LA-TOF-MS). The isotopes were detected based on their mass-to-charge (m/z) ratio. To improve the resolution of LA-TOF-MS, an aluminum disk with a 1 mm central opening was placed within a cylindrical magnetic filter (∼1 T) along the ion signal path. The electric field was applied using DC power, and the signal-to-noise ratio was monitored via an oscilloscope. Zinc isotopes; Zn-64, Zn-66, and Zn-68 were observed with high resolution within 1 μs by systematically applying electric fields in the ionization and extraction regions. The full-width half maximum (FWHM) significantly decreased with increasing electric field strength, from 0.215 to 0.137 μs for Zn-64, 0.294 to 0.146 μs for Zn-66, and 0.239 to 0.190 μs for Zn-68. The mass concentrations for Zn-64, Zn-66, and Zn-68 were estimated to be 48.6 %, 27.9 %, and 18.8 %, respectively, within ±0.1 % uncertainty, which is in agreement with the reported values in the literature. Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) is used for plasma characterization and rapid qualitative identification of the constituent elements in the sample under study. Energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy is applied for the cross-validation of the qualitative results obtained using LIBS. Since spectroscopically pure zinc was used in this study, spectral lines of any impurity elements may also appear in both spectra. However, LA-TOF-MS yields peaks along the arrival time scale of the constituent ions in the sample. The results demonstrate that LA-TOF-MS, combined with LIBS and EDX techniques, suggest a rapid method for elemental/isotope analysis.
• Fayyaz, A., Waqas, M., Fatima, K., Naseem, K., Asghar, H., Ahmed, R., Umar, Z. A., & Baig, M. A. (2025). Laser-Based Characterization and Classification of Functional Alloy Materials (AlCuPbSiSnZn) Using Calibration-Free Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy and a Laser Ablation Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometer for Electrotechnical Applications. Materials, 18(Issue 9). doi:10.3390/ma18092092
  More info

  In this paper, we present the analysis of functional alloy samples containing metals aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), lead (Pb), silicon (Si), tin (Sn), and zinc (Zn) using a Q-switched Nd laser operating at a wavelength of 532 nm with a pulse duration of 5 ns. Nine pelletized alloy samples were prepared, each containing varying chemical concentrations (wt.%) of Al, Cu, Pb, Si, Sn, and Zn—elements commonly used in electrotechnical and thermal functional materials. The laser beam is focused on the target surface, and the resulting emission spectrum is captured within the temperature interval of (Formula presented.) to (Formula presented.) K using a set of compact Avantes spectrometers. Each spectrometer is equipped with a linear charged-coupled device (CCD) array set at a 2 μs gate delay for spectrum recording. The quantitative analysis was performed using calibration-free laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (CF-LIBS) under the assumptions of optically thin plasma and self-absorption-free conditions, as well as local thermodynamic equilibrium (LTE). The net normalized integrated intensities of the selected emission lines were utilized for the analysis. The intensities were normalized by dividing the net integrated intensity of each line by that of the aluminum emission line (Al II) at 281.62 nm. The results obtained using CF-LIBS were compared with those from the laser ablation time-of-flight mass spectrometer (LA-TOF-MS), showing good agreement between the two techniques. Furthermore, a random forest technique (RFT) was employed using LIBS spectral data for sample classification. The RFT technique achieves the highest accuracy of ~98.89% using out-of-bag (OOB) estimation for grouping, while a 10-fold cross-validation technique, implemented for comparison, yields a mean accuracy of ~99.12%. The integrated use of LIBS, LA-TOF-MS, and machine learning (e.g., RFT) enables fast, preparation-free analysis and classification of functional metallic materials, highlighting the synergy between quantitative techniques and data-driven methods.
• Waqas, M. (2025).

  Isotopic Analysis of Zinc Plasma using Laser‒Ablation Time‒of‒Flight Mass Spectrometer

  . International Journal of Mass Spectrometry, 117442., 117442.
  More info

  Fayyaz, A., Baig, M. A., Ahmed, R., & Waqas, M. (2025). Isotopic Analysis of Zinc Plasma using Laser‒Ablation Time‒of‒Flight Mass Spectrometer. International Journal of Mass Spectrometry, 117442.
• Waqas, M. (2025).

  Laser-Based Characterization and Classification of Functional Alloy Materials (AlCuPbSiSnZn) Using Calibration-Free Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy and a Laser Ablation Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometer for Electrotechnical Applications.

  . Materials, 18(9), 2092., 2092.
  More info

  Fayyaz, A., Waqas, M., Fatima, K., Naseem, K., Asghar, H., Ahmed, R., ... & Baig, M. A. (2025). Laser-Based Characterization and Classification of Functional Alloy Materials (AlCuPbSiSnZn) Using Calibration-Free Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy and a Laser Ablation Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometer for Electrotechnical Applications. Materials, 18(9), 2092
• Waqas, M. (2025).

  Rapid Elemental Imaging of Copper-bearing Critical Ores using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy coupled with PCA and PLS-DA

  . Talanta, 128463, 128463.
  More info

  Fayyaz, A., Waqas, M., Fatima, K., Liaqat, U., Naseem, K., Ahmed, R., & Baig, M. A. (2025). Rapid Elemental Imaging of Copper-bearing Critical Ores using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy coupled with PCA and PLS-DA. Talanta, 128463. (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.talanta.2025.128463)
• Fayyaz, A., Ali, N., Umar, Z., Asghar, H., Waqas, M., Ahmed, R., Ali, R., & Baig, M. (2024). CF-LIBS based elemental analysis of Saussurea simpsoniana medicinal plant: a study on roots, seeds, and leaves. Analytical Sciences, 40(3). doi:10.1007/s44211-023-00480-9
  More info

  The plant Saussurea Simpsoniana, which has been used in traditional medicine for its biocompatibility and abundant nutrients, offers a wide range of remedies. Local communities effectively utilize medicines derived from the plant’s roots to treat various ailments such as bronchitis, rheumatic pain, and abdominal and nervous disorders. In this study, we present an elemental analysis of the chemical composition (wt%) of this medicinal plant using the laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) technique. In the air atmosphere, an Nd:YAG (Q-switched) laser operating at a wavelength of 532 nm is utilized to create plasma on the sample’s surface. This laser has a maximum pulse energy of approximately 400 mJ and a pulse duration of 5 ns. A set of six miniature spectrometers, covering the wavelength range of 220–970 nm, was utilized to capture and record the optical emissions emitted by the plasma. The qualitative analysis of LIBS revealed the presence of 13 major and minor elements, including Al, Ba, C, Ca, Fe, H, K, Li, Mg, Na, Si, Sr, and Ti. Quantitative analysis was performed using calibration-free laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (CF-LIBS), ensuring local thermodynamical equilibrium (LTE) and optically thin plasma condition by considering plasma excitation temperature and electron number density. In addition, a comparison was made between the results obtained from CF-LIBS and those acquired through energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis. Graphical abstract: (Figure presented.).
• Fayyaz, A., Baig, M., Waqas, M., & Liaqat, U. (2024). Analytical Techniques for Detecting Rare Earth Elements in Geological Ores: Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS), MFA-LIBS, Thermal LIBS, Laser Ablation Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry, Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy, Energy-Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometer, and Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy. Minerals, 14(10). doi:10.3390/min14101004
  More info

  Rare earth elements (REEs) hold significant industrial, scientific, and modern technological worth. This study focused on detecting and quantifying REEs in various geological ore samples. These samples were collected from different REE-bearing locations recommended by geological experts. The analysis was conducted using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) and laser ablation time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LA-TOF-MS). In this work, LIBS methodology was employed using three different configurations: standard LIBS, LIBS with an applied magnetic field, and LIBS with both an applied magnetic field and target sample heating within an optimal temperature range. Elements from the REE group, specifically lanthanum (La), cerium (Ce), and neodymium (Nd), were identified and quantified. To detect, quantify, and validate the results from LIBS and LA-TOF-MS, we utilized an array of analytical techniques—Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX), Energy-Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometer (ED-XRF), and Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES). Interestingly, the quantitative results for REEs (La, Ce, and Nd) in the ore samples obtained using the LIBS technique with various configurations were found to be in agreement with those from LA-TOF-MS, EDX, XRF, and ICP-OES. In addition, LIBS enables detailed microchemical imaging, allowing the map of the spatial distribution of elements within the mineral–ore matrix. The high-resolution microscale elemental mapping of REEs was accomplished using the emission lines Ce (II) at 446.0 nm, La (II) at 492.1 nm, and Nd (II) at 388.8 nm. By integrating multiple analytical techniques, our study enabled the construction of a complete elemental distribution map, providing new insights into the geochemical processes and mineral composition of rare earth ores, while advancing geochemistry and contributing valuable data for rare earth resource exploration.
• Fayyaz, A., Ali, R., Waqas, M., Liaqat, U., Ahmad, R., Umar, Z. A., & Baig, M. A. (2023).

  Analysis of Rare Earth Ores Using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy and Laser Ablation Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry

  . Minerals, 13(6), 787. doi:10.3390/min13060787
• Fayyaz, A., Asghar, H., Waqas, M., Kamal, A., Al-Onazi, W. A., & Al-Mohaimeed, A. M. (2023).

  Multi-Spectroscopic Characterization of MgO/Nylon (6/6) Polymer: Evaluating the Potential of LIBS and Statistical Methods

  . Polymers, 15(15), 3156. doi:10.3390/polym15153156

Proceedings Publications

• Kayani, J. A., Emad, M. Z., Waqas, M., Zahoor, M. K., & Shahid, A. S. (2025). Predictive Modeling of Drillability and Bit Wear Index for Efficient Drilling and Tunneling Operations. In 59th US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium.
  More info

  Drillability and tool wear are critical factors influencing the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of deep well drilling for oil and gas, as well as tunneling projects. Understanding these parameters is essential for optimizing advance rates, reducing operational costs, minimizing downtime, and improving spare parts management. The Drilling Rate Index (DRI), Bit Wear Index (BWI), and Cutter Life Index (CLI), developed by NTNU/SINTEF, serve as key indicators for evaluating drilling and Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) performance. While extensive research has been conducted on the impact of rock properties on drillability, limited studies have focused on predicting bit wear using BWI. This study investigates the relationship between various geo-mechanical rock parameters and both drillability and bit wear. Experimental analyses reveal that rock properties such as uniaxial compressive strength, Young's modulus, porosity, and abrasivity significantly influence these indices. Furthermore, predictive models with high accuracy (R2 ≥ 0.83) were developed using Simple Linear Regression Analysis (SLRA) and Multiple Linear Regression Analysis (MLRA) to estimate DRI and BWI. The findings provide valuable insights for optimizing drilling operations, enhancing tool selection, and improving cost estimation in mining, oil, and tunneling industries.
• Majeed, Y., Abbas, N., Waqas, M., & Emad, M. Z. (2025). In-Situ Stress Measurements for Stability Analysis of Room and Pillar Rock Salt Mines: A Case Study from the Salt Range, Punjab, Pakistan. In 59th US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium.
  More info

  Room-and-pillar mining is a widely used method for rock salt extraction in underground mines, where pillar stability plays a critical role in ensuring mine safety and optimizing mineral recovery. This study investigates in-situ stress conditions in three underground rock salt mines in Pakistan using the flat jack method. Field measurements included pillar stresses, in-situ elastic modulus, and key geometric variables such as pillar dimensions, opening width-to-height ratio, extraction ratio, and overburden height. Additionally, salt block samples were collected for laboratory testing to determine geomechanical properties, including uniaxial compressive strength, Young's modulus, Brazilian tensile strength, and density. The results indicate that pillar stresses are proportional to overburden stress, with values ranging from 6.05 MPa to 11.97 MPa, confirming overall pillar stability. Regression analysis was performed to develop predictive models for in-situ stress and elastic modulus. Furthermore, a guideline chart was developed to assist in determining appropriate pillar dimensions for various spans and safety levels, providing a practical tool for mine design and stability assessment.
• Ali, H., Shahzaib, M., Emad, M. Z., Waqas, M., & Ijaz, W. (2024). Stability Analysis of a Tunnel Nearby Folded Strata Using Numerical Modeling. In 58th US Rock Mechanics / Geomechanics Symposium 2024, ARMA 2024.
  More info

  The stability of underground structures, like mines and tunnels, has always been a major concern in the field of underground space development works.Reliable prediction of tunnel stability is a key challenge for tunnel engineering, especially when drilling in folded rock masses.Folded strata are layers of rock that have been folded and deformed by tectonic forces.This can create complex geological structures that are difficult for tunnel engineers.This research aims to investigate the stability of tunnels through folded strata (anticline, syncline, and fracture zones).Failure Sequence of the tunnel is simulated using finite difference software.The results of the simulations are analyzed to identify potential failure mechanisms and assess their likelihood and consequences.Based on these simulations, innovative techniques (position and number of tunnels) are developed to enhance tunnel stability in the fold-rich region.The results suggest that FDM software can be used to identify potential areas of instability and to design appropriate mitigation measures.This could help to reduce the risk of tunnel collapse and improve the safety of tunnels in areas with folded strata.
• Ashraf, M., Emad, M. Z., Waqas, M., & Moazzam, H. (2024). Numerical Simulation of Toppling Failure in Sedimentary Rock Slope Cuts with Alternating Soft and Hard Bands. In 58th US Rock Mechanics / Geomechanics Symposium 2024, ARMA 2024.
  More info

  Rock slope stability is a major concern in mega engineering projects, and it has been a major focus of engineering geology for over three centuries. The toppling failure mode is considered as one of the most complex and challenging to stabilize. The complexity of slope failures increases with a combination of mechanisms and the presence of different geological units and structures. Numerical modeling is a powerful tool for analyzing and simulating rock slope stability. This paper aims to assess and propose stabilization methods for toppling failure and complex toppling failure, using numerical modeling software FLAC 2D. The paper introduces a technique for assessing toppling failure in alternating soft-hard rock bands during adverse conditions and proposes innovative stabilization methods based on simulation effects. The results suggest that numerical modeling software can effectively assess toppling failure, design support, and reinforcement methods, and help predict and reduce the risk of slope collapse in toppling zones through appropriate stabilization techniques.
• Khan, M. U., Waqas, M., Emad, M. Z., & Tahir, M. U. (2024). Examining the Anisotropic Strength of Plain and Steel Fiber Reinforced Shotcrete. In 58th US Rock Mechanics / Geomechanics Symposium 2024, ARMA 2024.
  More info

  Shotcrete, a crucial component for initial rock support in underground mining and civil projects, significantly influences the adequacy of support systems. Evaluating the strength of shotcrete involves conducting uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) tests on the extracted core samples. Typically, shotcrete cores are obtained along the direction of application, leading to an oversight of its strength perpendicular to this direction. Consequently, the true bearing strength of shotcrete is neglected, despite higher stresses acting normal to the application direction. While the anisotropic behavior of shotcrete is documented, comprehensive studies on this scale and nature are lacking. This research addresses this gap by presenting extensive testing of shotcrete cores extracted from tunnels of a mega hydroelectric project in Pakistan. The study encompasses 7 and 28-day strength tests of shotcrete cores, shedding light on the often-overlooked perpendicular strength. Additionally, the investigation extends to the anisotropic behavior of steel fiber-reinforced shotcrete, revealing that shotcrete exhibits increased strength perpendicular to its application direction. This exploration contributes valuable insights to the understanding of shotcrete behavior, emphasizing its multifaceted strength characteristics.
• Emad, M. Z., Majeed, Y., Waqas, M., & Rehman, G. (2023).

  Rock Salt Block Extraction Using Conventional Rock Mining Methods

  . In ARMA.
• Emad, M., Waqas, M., & Khan, M. (2023). Investigating the impacts of porosity on the rock mechanical properties of sandstone. In ARMA.
  More info

  Laboratory testing of rocks and developing their interrelationships is a good way for assessment of rock behavior for mining and construction industries. A detailed testing program was envisaged to establish possible correlations between porosity and mechanical properties of sedimentary rocks from Salt range Punjab, Pakistan. Sandstone samples were collected from different formations of the salt range area. Sample preparation was carried out at the rock mechanics laboratory at UET Lahore as per suggested methods of ISRM. Samples with partings or defects were removed from the testing program. Acceptable samples were tested for porosity, density, UCS, BTS, and other properties. The test results obtained were used for statistical analysis to find possible correlations using MS Excel. The analysis showed that the rocks can be divided into two groups. The predictive relationships were determined between porosity and static mechanical properties of rocks, and between porosity and dynamic mechanical properties.
• Waqas, M., & Emad, M. Z. (2022). Design of Larger Span Overhanging Cliffs Constructed in Himalayas. In ARMA.

Presentations

• Tenorio Gutierrez, V. O., dos Santos, M., & Waqas, M. (2025, July/Summer).

  Extraction of Icy Regolith from a Crater at the Permanently Shadowed Regions of the Lunar South Pole using a Sandwich Conveyor System

  . 2025 Lunar Development Conference. Virtual: The Moon Society.
  More info

  Abstract for LDC 2025Extraction of Icy Regolith from a Crater at the Permanently Shadowed Regions of the Lunar South Pole using a Sandwich Conveyor SystemVictor O. Tenorio1, Marc dos Santos2, Muhammad Waqas3, Matthew Patterson4Initiating a mining operation at the Moon’s South Pole using ISRU Pilot Excavator (IPEx) equipment and a sandwich conveyor system presents significant challenges. The excavation of icy regolith in a low-gravity environment can be performed with high reliability, thanks to a counterrotating bucket drum system tested on Earth that provides near-zero reaction force. This system is ideal for excavating icy regolith in the Permanently Shadowed Regions near Shackleton Crater. Additionally, the sandwich conveyor system is well-suited for navigating irregular slopes and efficiently transporting material to the crater rim without spillage.Several challenges must be addressed. The harsh lunar environment, with its extreme temperatures and abrasive dust, demands robust and resilient equipment. Constructing and assembling the conveyor system and deploying IPEx units on the lunar surface will be complex and costly, necessitating specialized cranes and robotic assistants. Estimating production rates and transportation costs involves considering the logistics of moving equipment from Earth. Supervision will require a mix of human presence and surveillance cameras to ensure smooth operations and promptly address any issues.Despite these technological and logistical challenges, the potential for successful extraction of icy regolith using advanced systems is promising. The case study incorporates actual lunar contours, IPEx design specifications, and a proposed sandwich conveyor system tailored for this demanding scenario. 1 Professor of Practice, Department of Mining and Geological Engineering, University of Arizona2 Vice President and COO, Dos Santos International3 Assistant Professor of Practice, Department of Mining and Geological Engineering, University of Arizona4 Undergraduate Student, Department of Mining and Geological Engineering, University of Arizona