Mining Publication: Safer Mine Layouts for Underground Stone Mines Subjected to Excessive Levels of Horizontal Stress

• Appalachian basin
• Horizontal stress
• Seismic monitoring

Excessive levels of horizontal stresses cause ground-fall hazards in underground mines in the Appalachian Basin. At an underground stone mine in Pennsylvania, a modified stress-control mine layout is reducing the hazardous conditions associated with excessive horizontal stresses. A microseismic monitoring system is in place to measure levels of rock stability and provide information on the effectiveness of the design technique. The microseismic data are supplemented with frequent and extensive mapping of roof falls and roof rock damage. Findings to date show that the stress control layout provides more stable conditions, resulting in a safer environment for the mine workers.