Reactive and hot ground: a hidden hazard in mining
In the year from 2024 – 2025, there were six premature detonations due to hot or reactive ground in the mining industry
These incidents can lead to serious injuries or death. The mining industry uses ammonium nitrate (NH4NO3) as the main component in bulk explosives, which are used to extract resources from the ground (iron, coal, copper). When NH4NO3 comes into contact with hot ground (over 55oC) or reactive ground (pyrite, FeS2) it can prematurely detonate.
Modelling COMSOL Multiphysics was used to model these events in 3D and reveal the temperature profile inside a blasthole over time. Additionally, standard isothermal reactive ground tests were used to assess reactive ground behaviour at high temperatures (70oC). However, inconsistent results promoted further investigation into the test’s setup. The test setup was modelled using COMSOL Multiphysics to quantify heat loss and assess the test’s detection sensitivity.
Accelerating Rate Calorimetry (ARC) was used to reveal the time taken for explosive runaway to occur, the onset temperatures of this runaway, and the stages of runaway. The addition of urea results in significant increases in safety, which will be examined in the presentation.
This event is produced by Joint Chemical Engineering Committee (JCEC).
Who should attend?
Industry Representatives, Chemical Engineers, Academics
Learning Outcomes
In this presentation, you will learn:
How hot and reactive ground conditions can contribute to premature detonations in mining operations
How 3D modelling can be used to analyse temperature behaviour and assess thermal risks in blastholes
How accelerating rate calorimetry can identify the onset and progression of thermal runaway reactions
Practical approaches used by industry to mitigate reactive ground hazards and improve blasting safety
Program
In-person:
6.00 pm AEDT - Registrations open, refreshments served and networking begins
6.30 pm AEDT - Webinar and presentation commences
7.15 pm AEDT - Q&A session
7.30 pm AEDT- Webinar concludes
7.45 pm AEDT - Event concludes
Online:
6.30 pm AEDT - Webinar and presentation commences
7.15 pm AEDT - Q&A session
7.30 pm AEDT- Webinar concludes
