In-situ dynamic testing of ground support using simulated rockbursts

The Australian Centre for Geomechanics (ACG) is conducting a number of simulated rockburst experiments in Western Australian underground mines as part of its Mine Seismicity and Rockburst Risk Management research project. By simulating rockburst damage using blasting, it is possible to gauge the performance of complete ground support systems (incorporating rockbolts or cables, surface support and the connections between them) in-situ when subjected to strong ground motion, as would be generated by a large seismic event nearby. This paper describes the testing method used and presents the results of simulated rockburst tests at a number of Western Australian mines on various ground support systems. A dynamic support classification is shown which compares the dynamic capacity of the ground support systems tested. The test results are compared to ground support performance observed in actual rockburst case studies.