2156 (e.g., durability of the liner over years of service) and explore refinements like automation and smart controls to make the ICS process even more efficient. Overall, this case study contributes to the industry’s understanding of how to build faster, smarter, and more responsible mining operations, echoing the World Mining Congress 2026 theme. By pushing the boundaries of ground support timing and technology, mines like Inmaculada demonstrate that significant gains in efficiency are achievable. In-cycle shotcrete, when done in a technically sound manner, emerges as a valuable tool in the quest for safer and more productive underground mining. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The authors can express their appreciation or acknowledge the support and help they received for their work. REFERENCES Allison, P., Bernard, E., & Maerz, K. (2010). Modern accelerators for sprayed concrete: Alkali-free chemistry and effects on long-term strength. Shotcrete Journal, 12(3), 32-38. Bernard, E. (2010). Fiber reinforced shotcrete in mining and tunneling: 20 years of development. Proceedings of the Annual Conference of the Canadian Institute of Mining (CIM), Vancouver, Canada. EFNARC (2009). Specification and Guidelines for Sprayed Concrete. European Federation of National Associations Representing Concrete, UK. Garcia, M., Lopez, D., & Flores, X. (2018). Improving development cycle times in underground mining: A case for in-cycle shotcrete. In Proceedings of the MassMin 2018 Conference (pp. 245-256). Sydney: AusIMM. Hochschild Mining PLC (2022). Annual Report 2021: Operational Efficiency Initiatives. London: Hochschild Mining. Jenkins, P.A., Mitchell, J., & Upton, B. (2005). Improved ground control using hydro scaling and in-cycle shotcrete. In Ninth Underground Operators’ Conference, 7-9 March 2005 (pp. 133-138). Perth: The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. Ozturk, H., MacDonald, M., & Forbes, B. (2016). Safe re-entry time for in-cycle shotcrete in underground mines. In Shotcrete for Underground Support XI (Engineering Conferences International), Shiraz, Iran. Smith, J., & Andrews, T. (2019). Optimizing ground support installation in rapid development cycles. Tunnelling and Underground Space Technology, 89, 253-261. Trinh, Q., & Macedo, L. (2020). Innovation in underground support: From supplier to partner. Mining Engineering, 72(8), 44-48.
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