Explosive energy distribution in an explosive column through use of non-explosive material-case studies

The entire process of explosive selection and utilization is solely dependent on 'explosive energy utilization' in any blasting operation. Extensive studies in the field and laboratories across the globe had indicated, the effectively explosive energy is used, the better is the blasting result and safer the same. Last few decades had come out with several specific solutions to effectively use the explosive energy by means of stemming column stabilization, incorporating air-deck etc in the explosive column etc. All these studies have been undertaken in laboratory as well as mass production scale. When it comes to inserting or placing non-explosive material for explosive energy distribution, numerous systems like chemically activated gas bags, wooden block spacers, inflated rubber balls etc. have been experimented and used. In view of the rising cost of explosives and accessories in any mines, the mine operators were not forthcoming to use these non-explosive materials, owing to higher cost component involved. The authors have thus tried a number of materials to replace gas bags etc, on both economic and technical view points. Used plastic water bottles of one liter capacity, was chosen to strengthen the stemming column, to insert an air-pocket in the explosive column and also in the sub-grade region of any blast hole. An attempt has been made to present the various aspects of the explosive energy distribution, and experiments conducted with the use of plastic bottles in Uranium, Limestone, Iron Ore and other surface mine blasting in India.