In the heart of China’s coal mining industry, a groundbreaking study is reshaping how we approach one of the sector’s most formidable challenges: rockburst. Qi Hao, a leading researcher from the School of Mines at China University of Mining & Technology, has published a compelling investigation into the damage effects of deep hole pre-cracking blasting (DHPB) on roof rock, offering a beacon of hope for safer and more efficient mining practices.
Rockburst, a sudden and violent failure of rock, poses a significant threat to miners and mining infrastructure. It’s a problem that has long plagued the industry, particularly in areas with hard, thick rock layers. Enter DHPB, a technology that has emerged as a preferred means of preventing and controlling these dangerous events. However, the path to optimal implementation has been fraught with uncertainty.
Hao’s research, published in the International Journal of Coal Science & Technology (known in English as the International Journal of Coal Science and Technology), delves into the intricate world of crack extension and fractal damage under varying rock properties and blasting parameters. Using the advanced LS-DYNA software, Hao and his team simulated the complex interactions between rock tensile strength, explosive density, blasthole spacing, and decoupled coefficient.
“The tensile strength of rock is the key factor for blasting design,” Hao emphasizes. His findings reveal that as the tensile strength of rock decreases, the fractal damage caused by blasting increases, consuming more blasting energy. This insight is crucial for optimizing blasting designs and minimizing energy waste.
The study also sheds light on the role of explosive density. While higher densities can promote crack development and increase fractal damage, they also expand the crushed zone, leading to energy loss. Hao’s work underscores the delicate balance that must be struck to maximize efficiency and safety.
Perhaps most intriguingly, the research identifies an optimal interval for the decoupled coefficient. Within this range, explosive energy is fully utilized, resulting in penetrating blast cracks and smaller crushed zones. This discovery could revolutionize blasting practices, enhancing both safety and cost-effectiveness.
The practical implications of Hao’s research are immense. By optimizing blasting parameters, mining operations can significantly reduce the risk of rockburst, protecting workers and infrastructure alike. Moreover, the enhanced efficiency could lead to substantial cost savings, a boon for the energy sector as a whole.
As the industry grapples with the pressing need for safer and more sustainable practices, Hao’s work offers a promising path forward. His findings not only advance our understanding of DHPB but also pave the way for future innovations in rockburst control. In the words of Hao, “This research is a stepping stone towards a safer and more efficient future for coal mining.”
With the validation of optimal blasting parameters for coarse sandstone in field practice, Hao’s research is already making waves. Monitoring data show a significant reduction in rockburst risk, a testament to the real-world impact of this groundbreaking study. As the industry continues to evolve, Hao’s insights will undoubtedly shape the development of new technologies and practices, ensuring a brighter future for coal mining and the energy sector at large.