In Situ Leaching: A New Blasting Challenge

Blasting to prepare orebodies for in situ leaching usually involves extraordinary conditions which sometimes require special and innovative techniques. To date several unusually large blasts have been made for leaching with results that are very encouraging. Among the factors considered when designing these large blasts are orebody shape and depth, rock properties, vibration and damage potential, loading logistics, and safety. All of these factors, and others, are discussed with an effort made to put each of them into its proper perspective.