Numerical back-analysis of structurally controlled cave initiation and propagation at the Henderson Mine

D. P. Sainsbury, B. L. Sainsbury, M. P. Board, D. M. Loring

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference PaperResearchpeer-review

7 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

A numerical approach to cave assessment has been developed over the past 12 years, partly through funding provided by the International Caving Study (ICS) and Mass Mining Technology (MMT) Projects. Recent improvements have been made to the modeling methodology that allows the explicit representation of large, persistent geological structures within a cave-scale model. A numerical back-analysis of structurally controlled cave initiation and propagation has been conducted at the Henderson Mine to provide a validation of the modeling methodology to be used for evaluation of future caves. Evolution of the numerically derived yield zone during cave initiation and propagation provides a good match to measured TDR (Time Domain Reflectometry) breakages surrounding the 7210 Level cave volume. Interaction of the propagating cave with a weak geologic contact was required to be captured within the numerical model in order to achieve this correspondence.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication45th US Rock Mechanics / Geomechanics Symposium
PublisherAmerican Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA)
Number of pages12
Publication statusPublished - 2011
Externally publishedYes
EventUS Rock Mechanics / Geomechanics Symposium 2011 - San Francisco, United States of America
Duration: 26 Jun 201129 Jun 2011
Conference number: 45th

Conference

ConferenceUS Rock Mechanics / Geomechanics Symposium 2011
Country/TerritoryUnited States of America
CitySan Francisco
Period26/06/1129/06/11

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