In the context of the operation defined in the provided reference, mining aggregates refers to the materials used in a specific industrial process known as aggregate mining. These materials are naturally occurring granular substances.
Materials Used in Aggregate Mining
The primary materials that constitute mining aggregates include:
- Rock
- Sand
- Gravel
- Similar aggregate materials
These materials are fundamental components used in various construction and infrastructure projects.
The Aggregate Mining Operation Defined
According to the provided reference, aggregate mining is defined by the specific operation performed on these materials. It is:
- An operation that mixes or recycles rock, sand, gravel or similar aggregate materials with water and cement or with asphalt.
This mixing or recycling process transforms the raw aggregate materials into finished products like concrete (aggregates mixed with water and cement) or asphalt concrete (aggregates mixed with asphalt), which are essential for building roads, structures, and other infrastructure.
Activities Not Considered Aggregate Mining
It is important to note that the definition of aggregate mining in the reference specifically excludes certain activities, even if they might involve land disturbance. These activities are not considered part of the aggregate mining operation:
- Surveying
- Seismic work
- Exploration
- Maintenance activities that create a de minimis (minimal) land disturbance
Therefore, simply exploring for aggregate deposits or performing minor maintenance on a site would not be classified as aggregate mining according to this definition.
In summary, mining aggregates are the core materials (rock, sand, gravel) involved in the operation of aggregate mining, which specifically entails mixing or recycling these materials with cement and water or with asphalt for use in construction.
