Life Cycle Mining Deformation Monitoring and Analysis Using Sentinel-1 and Radarsat-2 InSAR Time Series

Abstract

The life cycle of mining results in various patterns of surface deformation as it progresses through development, production, and reclamation. Therefore, the spatial–temporal patterns of ground deformation provide a crucial indicator to understand the mining activities, related geohazards, and environmental restoration. This study investigates the decadal deformation (2012–2022) of three coal mines during different stages of mines’ life cycles in Henan, China, using radar interferometry with Radarsat-2 and Sentinel-1 data. The results reveal multiple deformation patterns across different areas: the Changcun mine area changed from ground subsidence to uplift following the termination of exploitation in 2016; the Xiadian mine area has been continuously developing over the past decade, resulting in a cumulative subsidence of 55.6 mm; and the Liyuan mine area exhibits surface rebound at a rate of 7.9 mm/year since its closure in 2007. We also probe the mining geometry of the production process by using a rectangular model. This study highlights the significance of long-term InSAR observations and deformation modeling in elucidating the mining operation dynamics of small mining zones in their production, transition, and post-closure periods, thereby facilitating the management of small-scale mining.