A review on plumes generation and evolution mechanism during deep-sea polymetallic nodules mining

Abyssal mineral resource exploitation is receiving increasing attention in many countries. The plume issues caused by deep-sea mining must be studied before commercial mining begins. A possible plume formation mechanism is analysed based on the pipeline lifting mining system, and four types of plumes are classified. In addition, the plume evolution mechanism after formation is discussed, and the potential influence of the background environment on plume diffusion and re -deposition is analysed. Furthermore, the possible effects of initial concentration and discharge conditions on plume diffusion were analysed in conjunction with mining vehicle -sediment interactions. The effect of flocculation on the plume is also discussed. In addition, the effects of turbidity, suspended particle concentration, and plume toxicity on the ecological environment are discussed. Finally, existing problems and future research directions are proposed. This article reviews the plumes generated during the mining process of polymetallic nodules, which are crucial for studying plume formation and evolution mechanisms and optimising the designs of mining equipment towards low -disturbance and plume -control.