Measuring the pressure induced by bench blasting and deciphering explosive performance through rockmass response analysis

Professor VMSR Murthy

Abstract

Rockmass response analysis in blasting is an important element for determining the performance of a blast along with its other outcomes. Near-field monitoring for rockmass response analysis is vital for determining the behaviour of a blast. However, due to costly and cumbersome methods involved in such measurements the subject has received scant attention so far and the publications on this account are perfunctory in nature. This presentation describes a non-destructive technique for monitoring the blast-induced pressure in a rockmass at a distance from a blasthole. The methodology of monitoring and examples of actual field monitoring are detailed. The responses of different rock variations in the near-field of the blasthole under dynamic loading have been documented to predict fragmentation and throw. The method has also been used in select cases to predict flyrock using a semi-empirical technique and trajectory equation. The advantages and disadvantages of the method are discussed, while light is thrown on the actual response, predictions of fragmentation, and throw of the blasted rock.

About Professor Murthy

Professor Murthy graduated in Mining Engineering from the Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology-VNIT, (formerly Visvesvaraya Regional College of Engineering-VRCE) in 1986 before obtaining his Master of Technology with distinction in Mine Planning and Design from the Indian School of Mines, Dhanbad in 1988. He joined the Central Mining Research Institute (now CIMFR), Dhanbad, one of the premier research labs of CSIR, as Scientist in Mine Productivity. Major projects handled throughout his tenure of eight years at CMRI include: the prestigious World Bank aided Koyna Hydroelectric Project Stage IV works, the Upper Kolab Hydro-electric Project, the Srisailam Hydro-electric Project, and many projects pertaining to coal and metal mining industries.

In 1997, Professor Murthy obtained a doctorate in the field of Mechanized Roadway Development using roadheaders from Indian School of Mines, before joining as an Assistant Professor. He was promoted to Associate Professor in 2004 and Professor in 2008. Currently, he is involved in teaching specialized courses (Mine Development, Rock Excavation Engineering, Surface Mining Operations and Equipment, Tunnelling & Underground Space Technology) and undertaking research in: drilling and blasting, mechanical cutting, blasting damage assessment, and rock characterization studies for the selection of tunnel boring machines, roadheaders, surface miners, rippers, etc.

Professor Murthy has around 131 research papers, 118 technical reports and 20 Executive Development Programmes to his credit. He has guided 6 PhD students and 22 master’s degree students. He has received several awards for his work, including the Halcow Premium Award from ICE, the ISRMTT Award, and the Hindustan Zinc Limited Prize from the Institution of Engineers (India).

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