Acoustic zoning for the safe use of explosives in the open pit

Abstract

Rockfall in open pit mining using explosives is the most method of operation. Also, in addition to the technical and economic advantages, this method of extraction produces effects that can have a negative impact in the area near the quarry. The effects of the blasting are such as seismic waves that produce vibrations, air overpressure (noise), rock throws and toxic gases. If the intensity and extent of these effects are not properly anticipated and assessed, serious consequences can occur to people, civil / industrial buildings, the environment, thus affecting the health of the population and the stability / integrity of buildings / slopes in the vicinity of mining operations. The paper describes methods to assess the noise produced by the detonation of explosives for civilian use when removing rocks in the quarry, with the aim of ensuring a degree of disturbance acceptable to the population as well as for the protection of civil / industrial objectives in the area of mining. The obtained results are extracted from a research study carried out for the opening in operation of a new mining deposit, applying calculations and theoretical interpretations having as reference the conditions established for the development of the blasting works.