Track 2: Process Innovation, Circularity and Recovery

i. Cut Simulation Once the redesign of the cut scheme was completed, an energy halo simulation was carried out, with the aim of evaluating the spatial distribution of explosive energy in the new configuration. Once the redesign of the cut scheme was completed, an energy halo simulation was carried out to analyze the spatial distribution of explosive energy and its interaction within the blast face. This simulation allows us to model the areas of influence of each drill according to the diameter, linear load, confinement and initiation sequence, evaluating the degree of energy overlap and the potential areas of energy concentration or deficit. The results show that the modified design generates a more controlled overlap of the pressure halos, reducing the excessive concentration of energy on the central axis characteristic of the single 102 mm drill and promoting a more homogeneous distribution over a larger active surface (see Figure 6 A and B). From a geomechanical point of view, this redistribution favors a more uniform field of stress, reducing areas of over-crushing and, at the same time, avoiding sectors with insufficient energy that could cause blockages at the bottom of the holes. The greater coverage of the face increases the efficiency of the energy coupling between break holes and relief holes, optimizing the process of generation and expansion of the free face. Consequently, a more homogeneous fragmentation of the rock mass, a progressive and controlled release of the material, and a better performance in terms of effective advance and stability of the excavated contour are achieved, reducing the damage to auxiliary installations. Figure 6 – A. Simulation of energy halos of the initial cut. B. Final Cut Energy Halos Simulation ii. Drill Deflection Analysis As part of the control of the redesign, the survey of the drill trajectory was executed in the last cut test. This analysis allowed us to verify that the average deviation remained 0.9m 0.9m 1.0m 1.0m

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