Summary
The most popular exploitation method used in Canadian hard rock mines is open stope mining. Geomechanical design of open stopes relies on a range of analytical, numerical and empirical tools. This paper presents an engineering approach for the analysis and the design of reinforcement for open stopes in jointed rock. The proposed methodology, illustrated by three case studies, relies on developing 3D joint network models from field data. The 3D joint networks have been successfully linked to a 3D limit equilibrium software package. The models account for the finite length of joints as well as the influence of random joints. The integrated approach facilitates comparative analyses of different reinforcement strategies under different degrees of jointing in the hard rock environment.
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Received February 23, 2001; accepted October 11, 2002; Published online January 21, 2003
Acknowledgments The financial support of the National Science and Engineering Council of Canada and the Institut de Recherche en Santé et Sécurité au Travail of Quebec and Noranda Inc. is greatly appreciated.
Authors' address: Prof. John Hadjigeorgiou, Université Laval, Department of Mining, Metallurgy and Materials Engineering, G1K 7P4 Quebec City, Quebec, Canada; e-mail: john.hadjigeorgiou@gmn.ulaval.ca
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Grenon, M., Hadjigeorgiou, J. Open Stope Stability Using 3D Joint Networks. Rock Mech Rock Engng 36, 183–208 (2003). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00603-002-0042-0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00603-002-0042-0