Backfilling for mines

Abstract

The article introduces results of studying the problem areas in filling masses of iron ore mining-and-processing enterprise. Some basic study of back filling after the blast hole drilling has been conducted by the authors. The samples picked from the disrupted back filling have been studied for strength. The analysis of the results evidences that all the samples meet the requirements of the strength class but there is a variation of the strength characteristics which evidences about the massif inhomogenuity. The results of chemical, X-ray and fluorescent analyses proved high inhomogenuity of solidified back filling masses in the massif. The microstructure of the back filling samples has inhomogeneous structure, with a great number of various pores. A set of studies showed lack of uniformity and consolidation of the filling solution. It resulted in the loss of strength and durability of the back filling area. The analysis of possible reasons for negative results has been given. The activities to improve the quality and durability of the back filling for mines have been suggested.