Research on the water migration law in ion-adsorbed rare earth ores based on the high-density resistivity method

High-intensity liquid injection is a key factor influencing the deformation and instability of slopes in ion-adsorbed rare earth ores. Current research on water migration in slopes primarily relies on point-to-point monitoring using sensors, which limits the ability to comprehensively monitor the ore body. To address this limitation, a test block from an ion-adsorbed rare earth ore was selected for the study. High-density resistivity methods, along with sensor monitoring technology, were employed to monitor the water content and apparent resistivity of the ore body. A correlation model was established between these two parameters. Based on this model, the distribution and migration patterns of water within the ore body were analyzed, demonstrating the effectiveness of high-density resistivity method in investigating water migration in ion-adsorbed rare earth ores. The field test results revealed a significant power function relationship between the water content and apparent resistivity of the ore body. During the solution injection process, the infiltration area evolved from a droplet shape to a peach shape and ultimately to a hat-shaped pattern. In the non-injection areas, the water content in the lower part of the ore body tended toward saturation, while the topsoil layer remained unaffected by the leaching agent. This created a potential slip zone in the lower part of the topsoil, posing a landslide risk. Additionally, the cohesion and internal friction angles reached their lowest values once the ore body was fully saturated. These findings highlight the importance of enhanced safety inspections during the middle and later stages of solution injection.