Discrete Element Modelling of the Influence of Reinforcement in Structurally Controlled Squeezing Mechanisms in a Hard Rock Mine

Structurally defined squeezing mechanisms in hard rock mining often result in buckling failures and large deformations. In mining drives, the primary objective is to mitigate and manage, in a cost-effective way, as opposed to arrest the deformation. This paper is a contribution to an improved understanding of the impact of several reinforcement scenarios in structurally controlled deformations in hard rock mines. The influence of reinforcement in the 3D discrete element method is explored, extending previous numerical work that has captured the squeezing buckling mechanism driven by foliation and high stresses in the selected mine site. A comprehensive strategy for explicitly modelling rock reinforcement using the DEM was developed and implemented in a series of 3D numerical models. The models were calibrated based on field testing of reinforcement and observations at the LaRonde Mine. They were used to investigate the influence of different reinforcement strategies at different deformation stages. The numerical results were in agreement with the field observations and demonstrated the practical implications of using yielding reinforcement elements. This was supported by field data where the use of yielding bolts reduced the drift convergence and rehabilitation. The methodology is applicable to other mine sites facing structurally controlled large deformations.