Explores mechanics and demand of ground support technology Covers whole gamut of theories, laboratory and field test results and case studies related to ground support technology Includes comprehensive database of Mesh, rockbolts, cablebolt, shotcrete capacity Examines ground support scheme testing and explanation Discusses comprehensive case studies including de-stress blasting

The first comprehensive work on one of the most important underground mining methods worldwide, Geotechnical Design for Sublevel Open Stoping presents topics according to the conventional sublevel stoping process used by most mining houses, in which a sublevel stoping geometry is chosen for a particular mining method, equipment availability, and work force experience. Summarizing state-of-the-art practices encountered during his 25+ years of experience at industry-leading underground mines, the author: Covers the design and operation of sublevel open stoping, including variants such as bench stoping Discusses increases in sublevel spacing due to advances in the drilling of longer and accurate production holes, as well as advances in explosive types, charges, and initiation systems Considers improvements in slot rising through vertical crater retreat, inverse drop rise, and raise boring Devotes a chapter to rock mass characterization, since increases in sublevel spacing have meant that larger, unsupported stope walls must stand without collapsing Describes methodologies to design optimum open spans and pillars, rock reinforcement of development access and stope walls, and fill masses to support the resulting stope voids Reviews the sequencing of stoping blocks to minimize in situ stress concentrations Examines dilution control action plans and techniques to back-analyze and optimize stope wall performance Featuring numerous case studies from the world-renowned Mount Isa Mines and examples from underground mines in Western Australia, Geotechnical Design for Sublevel Open Stoping is both a practical reference for industry and a specialized textbook for advanced undergraduate and postgraduate mining studies.

The purpose of ground support is to safely maintain excavations for their expected lifespan. The effectiveness of ground support can be seen both in terms of personnel and equipment safety, and in terms of allowing the most economic extraction. Scientists, practitioners and technology developers have contributed to this volume, which covers rock mass characterisation, open pit mining and tunnelling. The methods described include modelling and dynamic testing, while international case studies provide ample illustration of both failures and triumphs in ground support.