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Block identification and stability analysis of underground stope with multi-working face
Minsi Zhang1,2, Chenlong Tie1,2, Bin Wang3
1Engineering Research Center for Geological Environment and Underground Space of Jiangxi Province, East China University of Technology, Jiangxi, Nanchang, China.
Plos One
|January 6, 2026
Summary
This study introduces a new method for analyzing the stability of complex mine stopes by dividing them into simpler shapes. This approach accurately identifies critical rock blocks, improving underground excavation safety.
Area of Science:
- Geotechnical Engineering
- Mining Engineering
- Rock Mechanics
Background:
- Conventional block theory struggles with complex concave geometries in multi-working face stopes.
- Accurate stability analysis is crucial for safe underground excavations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel methodology for stability analysis of complex stope geometries.
- To enable the application of traditional block theory algorithms to challenging excavation designs.
Main Methods:
- Rock mass modeling using combined convex sub-regions.
- Block identification via discontinuity contraction and sub-region merging.
- Implementation into GeoSMA-3D software for practical application.
Main Results:
- Successfully identified all independent and key blocks in a shallow-buried metal mine stope.
- Excavation disturbances increased discontinuity persistence and the number of key blocks.
- Identified 205 key blocks, with 60% involving deterministic discontinuities, max volume 5.37 m³.
Conclusions:
- The proposed method accurately and effectively analyzes complex, multi-face excavations.
- Provides a robust framework for surrounding rock stability assessment in mining stopes.
- Highlights the impact of excavation on discontinuity persistence and block formation.
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