Fragment size distribution of in situ rock masses from drill core
Publisher
The University of Arizona.Rights
Copyright © is held by the author. Digital access to this material is made possible by the University Libraries, University of Arizona. Further transmission, reproduction or presentation (such as public display or performance) of protected items is prohibited except with permission of the author.Abstract
The success of rock fragmentation by blasting and subsurface fluid flow depends on many variables, including in-situ fragmentation. This study presents select data from a review of over 13000 feet of core samples drilled at seven different mine properties in the United States and Chile. Two-dimensional computer simulations of fractures can be used to quantify the volume of rock required to calculate a stable estimate of mean fragment size. Spatial periodicity of fragment size measurements is indicated through vertical variograms and is used as the basis for a statistical analysis for the zoning of rock masses. A more reliable quantitative method to characterize the size distribution of in-situ rock using digital image processing of drill core photographs is also included. Furthermore, a complete experimental analysis is provided for the comparison of currently used correction methods used to develop the full volumetric fragment size distribution curve.Type
textThesis-Reproduction (electronic)