Blast wave induced spatial variation of ground vibration considering field geological conditions

Abstract

Drilling and blasting is one of the most widely-used methods for large-scale excavation in rocks and soils. However, rock blasting can induce many adverse effects, and the typical influence of rock blasting on the surrounding environment is illustrated in Fig. 1. Explosion induces ground and structures vibration1., 2. and annoying noise. When the explosive is detonated, an extremely high-pressure pulse is generated, which is transmitted into rock mass adjacent to the blast hole, producing a dilatational wave that propagates away from the charge. Stress waves due to blasts may cause damage to the surrounding rock and, furthermore, when the wave reaches a free face or open fissure (non-transmission), it will be reflected and converted into a tensile wave, which may produce tensile cracking and spalling if the tensile strength of the rock is exceeded by the tensile wave.3., 4. Also, due to the fact that some rock blasting projects are close to the inhabitant area, the surrounding buildings may be damaged due to blasting-induced ground vibration if large stress wave propagates in the soil foundation and shock wave propagating through the air.5 Disruption of some business activities, possible structural damage and emotional-traumatized residents are the problems that need to be addressed.2., 6. Therefore, the influence of ground vibrations on surrounding buildings, sensitive devices and people in urban environments is a significant consideration in obtaining project approvals.