Seismic Hazard in Deep Hard Rock Mining: A Brief Comparison of Stoping and Caving Experience

Session 3B: Seismicity and Rockburst Hazard

Abstract

As global mineral resources become depleted near the surface, hard rock mining operations are progressing to depths exceeding 1 km metres and approaching ultra-depths of 2 to 3 km or greater, resulting in an escalating seismic hazard. This paper presents a comparative discussion of seismic mechanisms and risk management strategies between deep hard rock stoping and caving mines. First, common mining-induced seismic source mechanisms between these two mining methods are reviewed based on case studies that focus on strong rockburst events. Accordingly, their risk mitigation measures from a practical ground control perspective were compared and discussed. The goal of this paper is to identify first principles that can guide seismic risk management plans for both mining methods.

Seismic hazard in deep hard rock mining: a brief comparison of stoping and caving experience

Authors

  • Hang Xu | Senior Rock Mechanics Engineer | SRK Canada
  • Ben Ollila | Senior Rock Mechanics Engineer | SRK Canada
  • Josh Parsons | Senior Mining Engineer | SRK Canada
  • Jarek Jakubec | Corporate Consultant (Mining) | SRK Canada
  • Andy Thomas | Principal Rock Mechanics Engineer | SRK Canada

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