Non-explosive applications of the PCF concept for underground excavation

Abstract The ever-expanding need to excavate more rock per unit energy and environment constraints have created new demands on rock excavation technology. Research efforts have been directed towards those techniques which break rock less violently by tensile stresses instead of compressive. The Penetrating Cone Fracture' (PCF) is one of the novel techniques which fall in this category. The paper encompasses the rock breaking technology based upon PCF and related concepts. The non-explosive methods like Drill-splitting, Static rock breaker, Water injection, Plasma blasting, Cardox tube and controlled foam injection have been described.