Study on the Stress Characteristics of Barricades in Uncemented Backfill Stopes
Received:April 02, 2025   Revised:April 05, 2025   Accepted:April 08, 2025      Published Online:August 05, 2025
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KeyWord:Mine backfilling; Backfill barricades; Lateral pressure; Drainage conditions; Placement locations
              
AuthorInstitution
JING Xinshan Beijing General Research Institute of Mining and Metallurgy
GUO Lijie Beijing General Research Institute of Mining and Metallurgy
PENG Xiaopeng Beijing General Research Institute of Mining and Metallurgy
TANG Guoxing Beijing General Research Institute of Mining and Metallurgy
CHEN Yin Xinjiang Kalatongke Mining Co., Ltd.
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Abstract:
      In underground mining operations utilizing the backfill method, an enclosed barricade must be constructed before filling the stope to ensure the smooth execution of the backfilling process. A high-quality barricade is a critical component of the backfill mining process, as its drainage performance and placement (i.e., the distance between the barricade and the stope opening) have a decisive impact on structural stability. This study addresses the stability of barricades in uncemented backfill stopes by independently developing a testing apparatus to simulate the loading conditions of barricades. A systematic investigation was conducted to examine the effects of different drainage conditions and barricade placements on lateral pressure. The results indicate that drainage conditions significantly influence barricade pressure. Under undrained conditions, excess pore water pressure accumulates, subjecting the barricade to higher lateral loads. Conversely, with effective drainage, excess pore water pressure dissipates rapidly, and the backfill material gradually consolidates, reducing barricade pressure by 70% compared to undrained conditions. Additionally, barricade pressure decreases as the distance from the stope opening increases, with barricades positioned farther from the stope experiencing a 35.43% reduction in lateral pressure compared to those placed closer. This reduction is primarily attributed to the enhanced friction between the backfill material and surrounding rock, which effectively shares the external load. Moreover, when a barricade is positioned at the stope opening with adequate drainage, its lateral pressure is influenced by the consolidation and compaction process of the backfill material. Once drainage ceases, lateral pressure increases with applied load, exhibiting stress-dependent consolidation characteristics. Therefore, in engineering practice, it is recommended to optimize the drainage system, strategically place barricades, and use barricades with good permeability to accelerate consolidation, reduce structural loads, and enhance the stability and safety of the backfill system.
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