Stress-strain behavior control in rock mass using different-strength backfill

Transition of mining to deeper horizons, depletion of mineral reserves and complication of geological conditions can induce manmade disasters. To avoid the negative consequences of mineral mining, it is necessary to improve the ground control procedures for enhancement of mining safety, to introduce new engineering solutions that enable hybrid open pit/underground mining and to abate adverse impact of geotechnology on the local biological optimum. The analysis of the backfilling experience allows for the conclusion on the necessity of improvement and wider application of this technology as it makes it possible to level the disadvantages of other systems, promotes safety of mining operations and ensures more complete mineral extraction. The finite element-based stress-strain analysis of rock mass depending on the backfilling variant defines the variation range of stresses. The comparative studies into the parameters of the exposed backfill surfaces allow concluding on applicability of differentstrength backfill in mineral mining in difficult geological conditions. Based on using differentstrength backfill, the authors propose some engineering solutions capable to reduce the cost of backfilling operations at the maintained safety and completeness of mineral extraction in mining thin and moderately thick steeply dipping and flat ore bodies. © 2020 Publishing house Mining book. All rights reserved.