A different methodology to control and predict ground vibrations from mine blasting

Ground vibration prediction and control from mine blasting is a complex task involving disciplines such as geotechnical engineering, explosives engineering, and geology. Despite the importance of controlling ground vibrations, the mining industry commonly uses empirical methodologies based on concepts related to the nuclear tests era (charge weight scaling relationships). Over the past decade, attempts have been made to popularize more elaborate methodologies. These methods range from basic waveform superposition to analytical and numerical methods. Such methodologies are difficult to utilize daily because of their complexity, sometimes low accuracy (despite their sophistication), requirement for difficult to obtain parameters, and time needed to reach solutions using complex algorithms. In this paper, a different methodology to control and predict ground vibrations from blasting is presented. This methodology uses a semi-empirical approach, where the generation and propagation of ground vibration waves and the ground vibration characteristics at a point of interest are considered through the collection of a signature waveform. The methodology allows assessment of the optimum delay between charges to minimize and control ground vibration levels. A case study is included to demonstrate the benefits and the methodology in detail.