ISSN:
1573-1529
Keywords:
Pillar mining
;
rock instrumentation
;
rock quality
;
rock deformation
;
finite element analysis
;
in situ stresses
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Geosciences
Notes:
Summary This paper summarizes the geomechanics programmes conducted in two hard rock underground mining operations in the Western United States between 1966 and 1981. The two projects were directed towards understanding the behaviour of the rock masses at the scale of the caverns. To this end, the emphasis was put on large-scale field measurements, complemented by limited laboratory testing. The results of these observations were used to build realistic finite element models of the underground chambers. In the marble mine, at Crestmore, California, the models were applied to the structural optimization of the room-and-pillar pattern. In the granite mine, at Climax, Nevada Test Site, the models explained some unusual stress changes observed during excavation. Based on the large number of geomechanical techniques employed, specific conclusions and recommendations are offered regarding the quality, applicability and usefulness of the various methods. The two case histories indicate clearly that numerical models are extremely useful for a detailed understanding of the structural behaviour of mine openings. To be realistic, these models must be based first and foremost on large-scale field observations. The lessons learned on these two projects are also directly applicable to the design and analysis of nuclear waste repositories in hard rocks such as basalt, granite and welded tuff.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00881259
