Blastability and Ore Grade Assessment from Drill Monitoring for Open Pit Applications

Abstract Blasting performance is influenced by mechanical and structural properties of the rock, on one side, blast design parameters other. This paper describes a new methodology to assess rock mass quality from drill-monitoring data guide blasting in open pit operations. Principal component analysis has been used combine measurement while drilling (MWD) information two drill rigs; corrections MWD minimize external influences other than have applied. First, Structural factor developed classify condition three classes (massive, fractured heavily fractured). From it, block model simplify recognition classes. Video recording inner wall 256 blastholes calibrate results obtained. Secondly, combined strength-grade obtained based type description strength geology reports, assaying chips (ore/waste identification) 3D unmanned aerial vehicle reconstructions post-blast bench face. Data 302 blastholes, comprised 26 blasts, for this analysis. results, four categories identified: soft-waste, hard-waste, transition zone hard-ore. The determines zones soft hard waste (schisted sandstone limestone, respectively), ore (siderite type). Finally, with an overall factor. factor, exclusively monitoring data, can provide automatic assessment structure, strength, waste/ore identification.