Abstract:
The optimization of the stope structure parameters of deep, high-stress, and fractured orebodies is of vital significance for safe and economic mining. This research proposed a collaborative analysis method of the extended Mathews stability graph and Flac
3D software numerical simulation, aiming to scientifically determine key parameters such as stope span. By taking the fractured orebodies in the ore-rock contact zone of a copper−gold mine in Serbia as the research case, based on the data obtained from engineering geological conditions and rock mechanics tests, the extended Mathews stability graph method was used to calculate the stability number of the stope, and the hydraulic radii–stability probability curve was constructed to quantitatively evaluate the stability of the exposed surface. Meanwhile, a three-dimensional mechanical model was established with the aid of Flac
3D software to simulate and analyze the deformation and failure characteristics of the surrounding rock under different span conditions, and the critical span threshold was determined based on the plastic zone penetration criterion. The research results show that the evaluation results of the two methods exhibit excellent consistency. The stope structure parameters (20 m × 12 m × 45 m) determined based on this ensure safety while also being economically reasonable. The proposed collaborative analysis method of numerical simulation and theoretical criteria in the research provides a new approach for the mining research of deep and complex orebodies.