Schemes comparation of layered and continuous solution mining in bedded salt formations by horizontal interconnected wells

• Continuous solution mining with horizontal interconnected wells reduces plastic deformation zones to 3.4% of cavern volume and volumetric shrinkage below 17%, significantly improving stability compared to layered mining. • The continuous method produces caverns 2.43 times larger than layered mining, reducing unit volume costs to 41.1% and enhancing resource recovery. • Layered solution mining leads to uneven plastic deformation zones, roof subsidence, and floor heave, posing interlayer connectivity risks and structural instability. • Continuous solution mining demonstrates superior economic and stability advantages, making it a promising approach for large-scale implementation in bedded salt formations.