Operationally, success relied on upfront TOC‑based classification of mineralized lithologies, disciplined execution to the modeled boundaries during excavation of the post‑blast dig‑layers, and feedback‑driven adjustments after measurement. The approach has been incorporated into routine grade‑control practice and is transferable to benches and pits where blast‑induced displacement and ore/waste contacts significantly affect reconciliation, provided local geologic domains and plant blend constraints are captured in the modeling and dig‑layer design. CONCLUSIONS AND FUTURE WORK The experience at Santa Luz mine demonstrates that the integration of advanced explosives, electronic initiation systems, and digital technologies can redefine standards in drilland-blast operations. Three initiatives—controlled blasting near sensitive infrastructure, pattern optimization through high-energy explosives, and ore dilution control using blast movement modeling—delivered measurable improvements in safety, efficiency, and economic performance. Key outcomes include: - Safe execution of production blasts adjacent to critical infrastructure without relocation, achieving full compliance with vibration and flyrock limits and generating an estimated economic impact of US$ 1.6 million. - Optimization of drilling and blasting practices through high-energy explosives, enabling pattern expansions of up to 18%, reducing powder factor by 17% in ore and 9% in waste, improving fragmentation by 10–12%, and delivering annual savings of approximately US$ 300,000. - Reduction of ore dilution from 18.4% to 10.9% through three-dimensional blast movement modelling, resulting in more reliable blends and an annual economic benefit exceeding US$ 840,000. These results confirm that combining engineering rigor with digital platforms and advanced products creates a closed-loop system that enhances control, reduces variability, and supports sustainability objectives. Beyond cost and productivity gains, the approach strengthens compliance and safety, aligning with the principles of modern, responsible mining. Future work will focus on continuing to invest in the development and optimization of drill-and-blast practices, leveraging innovation to enhance safety, reliability, and performance across diverse mining contexts.
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