Jagapthal , Vinod Kumar and Kolikipogu, Nageswara Rao and Porathur, John Loui (2026) Evaluation of Stability of Cemented Pastefill as an Artificial Roof for Underhand Stoping-field and Numerical Modeling Studies. Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration, 43. pp. 1119-1134.

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Abstract

Cemented pastefill (CPF) is extensively used as an artificial support system in underground hard rock mines. The maximum extractable span (MES) beneath the CPF roof is a critical factor that influences safe stope dimensions and thus influences both production and productivity. MES is defined as ‘the maximum stope width or span over which the pastefill roof remains stable’. Despite its importance, this aspect remains largely unexplored in existing studies. Therefore, this paper presents a parametric study utilizing numerical modeling to evaluate the stability of CPF in underhand stoping and to develop a standardized predictor model for MES. Key parameters influencing CPF performance and MES such as stope dip angle (D), rock to pastefill modulus ratio (M), depth of workings (H), and pastefill cohesion (C) were investigated through numerical modeling. A total of 135 numerical models were developed using FLAC3D software, incorporating strain-softening behavior to analyze failure mechanisms and stress distribution in CPF at various stages of stope extraction. The modeling results revealed that the stope dip angle, modulus ratio, and pastefill cohesion have a positive correlation with MES, as increasing these parameters from 45° to 90°, 20 to 100, and 115 kPa to 1250 kPa increases the MES by 56.2%, 100%, and 150%, respectively. However, depth shows an inverse correlation with MES, as a decrease in depth from 1500 to 400 m increases the MES by 47%. The influence of these parameters on MES was further examined using statistical regression analysis. Based on the comprehensive numerical modeling results and statistical analysis, a predictive equation for MES was developed using a C + + program, incorporating techniques such as root mean squared error minimization and search method (RMSE) for model optimization. The numerical results were validated against field observations, indicating the accuracy of the model. This study provides a detailed understanding of CPF-rock mass interactions and presents a practical approach to estimate MES, which can be utilized as a handy tool for mining engineers in designing safe and efficient underground stoping operations.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Underhand mining Cemented pastefill MES Numerical modeling Statistical analysis
Subjects:	Blasting
Divisions:	UNSPECIFIED
Depositing User:	Mr. B. R. Panduranga
Date Deposited:	04 May 2026 04:37
Last Modified:	04 May 2026 04:37
URI:	https://cimfr.csircentral.net/id/eprint/3013

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