After years of research at the Instite of Mining, Dr. Gekonde has successfully defended his doctoral thesis titled, "Experimental Investigation on Effectiveness of Surfactants in Quartz Dust Suppression - A Case Study of Underground Small-Scale Gold Mines in East Africa". His research work contributes to improving occupational health and safety in mining, and promotes sustainable development within the industry.
The Institute's Wind Tunnel, a key asset in the field of dust research, was incorporated in his three-stage methodology as a final stage and facilitated the comprehensive study of surfactants in quartz dust suppression. This work could have meaningful impacts on small-scale mining operations, especially in regions like East Africa.
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Oliver Langefeld from our institute and Prof. Dr.-Ing. Helmut Mischo from TU Bergakademie Freiberg supervised his research. The exam was led by Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Thomas Ulrich. This achievement further demonstrates the commitment of the Institute of Mining to foster research that supports the sustainable development of the mining industry.
In September, Dr. Gekonde is transitioning to an academic role, taking up a Lecturer Position at Taita Taveta University in Voi, Kenya. We wish him all the best in his new role and look forward to his continued contributions to the field.
The Institute of Mining congratulates Dr. Gekonde and is proud to have been a part of his academic journey.
