Abstract
The main objective of this research project is to delve into geomechanical risks associated with the cut & fill mining method for narrow vein mining conditions. Controlling geotechnical design parameters and operational factors, affecting the method for a given underground mining condition, will be considered from a risk assessment point of view.
Given the complicated nature of the rock mass in-situ, and complicated boundary conditions and operational complexities associated with cut and fill mining at depth, the selection of a safe and economic mining operation is of paramount significance. Rock failure at varying scales within the underground mining openings is always a threat to mining operations and causes human and capital losses worldwide. Geomechanical design is a major design component of all underground mines and dominates the safety of an underground mine. With regard to the uncertainties that exist in rock characterization prior to mine development, there are always risks associated with inappropriate design as a function of mining conditions and the selected mining method. Uncertainty often results from the inherent variability of rock mass, which in turn is a function of both geological materials and rock mass in-situ conditions.
In this study, a typical cut and fill mining condition at high depth will be simulated numerically. The focus of this research is to conduct a comprehensive analysis looking into key boundary conditions associated with the method and assess risks associated with geomechanical design parameters. The obtained results will be verified against field data and risk proneness of key geomechanical design parameters will be discussed