Optimum selection of explosives by means of monitoring explosive
performance can lead to increased profitability through the control of
fragmentation, a reduction in hangingwall and footwall damage and
overall drill and blast costs. Studies conducted at the Mount Lyell Mining
and Railway Company underground copper mine evaluated in situ the
performance of four explosive types. Measurements included monitoring
the levels of induced shock energy and the attenuation thereof with
distance. The velocity of detonation (VOD) of these explosives was also
measured using in-hole techniques. Assessment of these results, together
with a knowledge of the rock mass strength, facilitated the selection of an
explosive that was best suited to the given rock mass conditions.