This study investigates the relationships between rock properties, blasting parameters, and their impact on quarry floor elevation and mining costs at Mount Olives quarry. Rock properties (uniaxial compressive strength, tensile strength, density) and blasting parameters (blast hole diameter, explosive type, stemming length) were analyzed. Statistical models correlated rock, blast, and quarry floor properties. Results showed significant correlations between rock properties and blasting parameters, affecting quarry floor elevation and mining costs. Compressive strength and tensile strength influenced blast energy, while rock density impacted quarry floor stability. Mining costs were predicted using statistical models incorporating rock and blast properties. This research demonstrates the importance of understanding rock and blast interactions in optimizing quarry operations and reducing mining costs. The findings provide valuable insights for quarry managers, blasting engineers, and geotechnical professionals.
Keywords: Rock properties, blasting parameters, mining costs, quarry floor elevation, statistical modeling.
