Damage to surface structures due to blast vibration

Abstract

This paper describes effect of blast produced ground vibration on damage potential to residential structures to determine safe levels of ground vibration for the residential structures and other buildings in mining areas. Impacts of 341 blasts detonated at two mines were monitored at the test structures and 1871 blast vibrations signatures were recorded on or near the test structures. Cosmetic cracks in a native brick-mud-cement house were detected at peak particle velocities (PPV) between 51.6 and 56.3 mm/s. The reinforced concrete and cement mortar (RCC) structure experienced cosmetic cracks at PPVs of 68.6–71.3 mm/s at the first floor, whereas at second floor it was detected at PPV levels of 71.2–72.2 mm/s. Minor damage in brick-mud-cement house was recorded at PPV levels of 81.0–89.7 mm/s. The RCC structure at first and second floors experienced minor damage at PPV levels of 104 and 98.3–118 mm/s, respectively. The brick-mud-cement house experienced major damage at PPV level of 99.6–113.0 mm/s, while major damage was recorded in RCC structure on first floor at PPV of 122 mm/s, the second floor at PPV levels of 128.9–161 mm/s. Recommended threshold limits of vibrations for the different type of structures is based on these measurements and observations.