The Use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in Documenting and Analyzing Raw Material Quarries for the Cement Industry in Libya: A Case Study of the Souq Al-Khamis Plant

Abstract

This study addresses the importance and role of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in improving and developing the management of mining activities for raw material quarries used in the cement industry. Through a case study on the quarries of the Souk El-Khamis cement plant in Libya, the research focused on establishing a spatial geodatabase using ArcGIS software. This was aimed at mapping, documenting, and archiving quarry locations, estimating reserves, and analyzing the geological and geomechanical properties of the extracted rocks. The study relied on field data and previous technical reports to build spatial layers and analyze geological relationships and mining field boundaries, thereby improving resource utilization efficiency and supporting planning and management processes. The results demonstrated that the utilization of GIS enhances the decision-making process and elevates the efficiency of mining operations management. The study recommends expanding this approach to the remaining cement plants in Libya and establishing an integrated national system for geological and mining data.