Optimization of the powder factor during rock masses blasting according to their intrinsic properties.

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Department of Earth and Universe Sciences, Faculty of Natural and Life Sciences, Earth and Universe Sciences, Mohamed Khider University Biskra, Algeria. laboratoire Aménagements Hydrauliques et Environnement, Mohamed Khider University Biskra.

2 Department of Mines and Geo-technology, Echahid Echeikh Larbi Tebessi University Tebessa, Algeria.

3 Centre de Recherche en Aménagement du Territoire (CRAT), Campus Zouaghi Slimane, Route de Aïn El Bey, Algeria.

4 Department of Mining Engineering, Metallurgy and Materials. Laboratory of Mines, Metallurgy and Materials (L3M), National Higher School of Technology and Engineering, Annaba, Algeria.

5 Department of Mines and Geo-technology, Echahid Echeikh Larbi Tébessi University Tebessa, Algeria.

6 Faculty of Naturel and Life Sciences, University of Jijel, Algeria. Laboratory of Geological Engineering (LGG).

10.22059/ijmge.2026.402794.595306

Abstract

The primary aim of mining enterprises is to extract commodities that can be sold commercially. As a result, it is always essential to look for technological solutions to minimize production costs with the most optimized working results. Optimizing rock blasting parameters is one of the technological solutions used. These parameters differ from one mine to another, as each mine has different conditions. The present work was carried out at the Kef Essenoun phosphate mine in northeastern Algeria, with the main aim of optimizing the powder factor when blasting rock massifs according to their intrinsic characteristics to attain optimal outcomes from both technical and economic perspectives. To achieve this objective, we carried out field measurements to understand the characteristics of rock mass discontinuities. These measurements were then mapped using DIPS software. Laboratory studies were conducted to examine the physical and mechanical properties of the rock matrices (limestone and phosphate).  Fragmentation results were analyzed using the Kuz-Ram model to compare the firing plans proposed by the company with those actually carried out. The results obtained by the Kuz-Ram model were validated using Wip-Frag software. The results show great convergence on the technical side (degree of fragmentation) and a significant difference on the economic side. This difference corresponds to the extraction cost of limestone and phosphate rock, which could be reduced approximately 812,000 USD per year through the optimization of the amount of explosives used in the proposed blasting plans. The optimization also diminishes the vibrations linked to blasting, leading to improved safety and enhanced slope stability.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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