Abstract
The optimum utilisation of explosive energy in the rock blasting operation is a prime challenge for the blast designers. The explosive energy in this operation is used for movement of burden. The optimum fracturing of the rock mass to meet the production demand takes place along tension. In the process of blasting, the detonation pressure of the explosives in the blasthole induces shock wave to the rock mass. The propagating shock wave is initially compressive in nature and becomes tensile after being reflected from the free face. The extent of tensile damage zone would give the optimum burden for blasting. The explosive properties along with the rock mass properties and charge configuration influences the extent of tensile damage zone. In this study, an empirical relation has been developed for estimation of blast induced tensile damage zone. The experimental trials were conducted at a coal mine using two different types of explosives for the validation of the developed empirical relation. The ground vibration predictors were developed using the data of experimental trials. The induced damage zone was computed using empirical relation proposed by Forsyth (1993) and developed ground vibration predictors. The estimated damage zone using developed empirical predictor and Forsyth relation were compared. The difference in the induced damage zone using two approaches is within 10%. The predicted values using developed empirical relation are accurate with RMSE value of 0.227 m. Hence, the developed empirical relation would be beneficial for estimation of blast induced crack zone.