Mining considerations for in situ oil shale development. [Block caving, room-and-pillar, and sublevel caving methods]

Mining considerations inherent in the in situ development of oil shale are examined. Three mining methods are evaluated with regard to their potential for producing a rubble column suitable for retorting. These are: 1) block caving, 2) sublevel room and pillar mining, and 3) sublevel caving. Physical and environmental constraints are also discussed and their impact on a shale oil industry evaluated.