Abstract
ABSTRACT Expansive cement (EC) is generally a slurry that it is poured into vertical holes for surface rock breakage applications. This paper describes the development of a novel cartridge for extending EC applications from gravity-filled vertical holes to horizontal, uptilted, and wet boreholes. Four cartridge prototypes were made from low-cost and readily available plastics using three-dimensional printers. The performance of each cartridge was investigated in unconfined rock slab tests. The polylactic acid (PLA) cartridge was found to be superior to the thermoplastic polyurethane, polyethylene terephthalate glycol, and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene cartridges. Through partial heat containment, the PLA cartridge accelerated the EC hydraulic reaction and shortened the onset of rock destruction by 30% relative to vertical, gravity-filled EC. Finally, rock breakage with EC was demonstrated in an underground mine using PLA cartridges. This novel type of cartridge could not only suit various applications beyond the scope of the current EC surface applications but also significantly improve the rock fracturing efficiency of EC.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
