Blast simulation in underground mines using the combined finite-discrete element method

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the application of a combined finite-discrete element program, such as ELFEN, for the simulation and prediction of backfill stope failure risks due to blast loading effects in underground mines. A real size of a backfilled stope blasted in the nearby rock of the paste fill is modelled. The dynamic fracture propagation and fragmentation in rock and the behaviour of paste fill by using the proposed model are provided and discussed. The results show the proposed model can be applied to provide an effective means to simulate substantial insight into the dynamic fracture processes during the blasting and estimate failure risks of the paste fill by using the peak particle velocity as a measure of blast damage.