Mining Sequence Deformation and Failure Behaviour Analysis in the hangingwall and Orebody Rock Formations; A Continuum Approach

Abstract

In this study based on practical geological setting of the hangingwall, orebody and footwall. Two comprehensive evaluation models for selecting the underground mining method to extract the Nchanga Upper Orebody were proposed which constituted of six key attributes of technical economic, rock substance strength, production, orebody dip and thickness. These evaluation models are analyzed by the multiple attribute decision making methods based on eigenvalues, eigenvectors and fuzzy mathematics. In addition two different continuum numerical methods Examine2D and RS3 are employed to simulate the mining process of the Upper Orebody and finally the optimal mining scheme is determined. By using analytical hierarchy process, Yager’s method and numerical modeling some useful conclusions for mining the highly folded Upper Orebody have been drawn, which will be beneficial to the Nchanga mine.