Abstract
In Mupane Gold Mine, the conditions of the ground vary from good to moderate. The identification of the appropriate
ground support is therefore less challenging. The lithology of Mupane comprises of Quartzite, Schist, Banded Iron
Formation and/or Graphitic Iron Formation and Dolerite. The main challenges at great depth are high rock stress
levels, seismic events, large-scale deformation, sudden failures, and elevated temperatures that may cause abrupt and
unpredictable instability and collapse over a large scale. However, the purpose of this research is to determine the
suitable type of rock support for the Banded Iron Formation section. Support design recommendations are based on
the Rock-mass rating (RMR) system and rock-quality index (Q) system which derives values that will indicate the
quality and condition of the rock mass. Face mapping which involves the measuring of joint orientations, frequency,
persistence, and condition relative to the host rock. Ground support is a fundamental requirement for all underground
mining operations. Use of two or more classification systems in ground support investigation, will generally lead to
better and more accurate results. Use the Q-system because provides a solid quantitative representation of rock mass
quality or use the modified Rock Mass Rating System. Further, kinematic analysis can compensate for the shortcomings
in the Q system and facilitate the way to develop safe excavation methodology.
Keywords: Mupane Gold Mine, Dolerite Dyke, RQD,RMR,Q-System
ground support is therefore less challenging. The lithology of Mupane comprises of Quartzite, Schist, Banded Iron
Formation and/or Graphitic Iron Formation and Dolerite. The main challenges at great depth are high rock stress
levels, seismic events, large-scale deformation, sudden failures, and elevated temperatures that may cause abrupt and
unpredictable instability and collapse over a large scale. However, the purpose of this research is to determine the
suitable type of rock support for the Banded Iron Formation section. Support design recommendations are based on
the Rock-mass rating (RMR) system and rock-quality index (Q) system which derives values that will indicate the
quality and condition of the rock mass. Face mapping which involves the measuring of joint orientations, frequency,
persistence, and condition relative to the host rock. Ground support is a fundamental requirement for all underground
mining operations. Use of two or more classification systems in ground support investigation, will generally lead to
better and more accurate results. Use the Q-system because provides a solid quantitative representation of rock mass
quality or use the modified Rock Mass Rating System. Further, kinematic analysis can compensate for the shortcomings
in the Q system and facilitate the way to develop safe excavation methodology.
Keywords: Mupane Gold Mine, Dolerite Dyke, RQD,RMR,Q-System
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 1232 |
| Number of pages | 1241 |
| Journal | International Journal of Environmental Sciences |
| Volume | 11 |
| Issue number | 6 |
| Publication status | Published - Jul 7 2025 |