Practical application of support systems to address weak rock mass in underground mines (update)

The topic of underground excavation in weak rock mass for civil applications is well analyzed and studied by researchers and engineers. However, limited studies are available for similar ground conditions in underground mining environment. Most of the rock engineering and rock mass classification systems were developed based on tunneling and civil applications of rock, soil mechanics and case histories. The current challenges faced by many underground mine operators are addressing the issues of excavations in poor ground conditions to ensure safe working environment, overall stability of the underground infrastructures and preservation of the mineable reserve conditions and to perform this economically from a mining perspective. This updated paper provides perspectives on the application of commonly used support systems updated with information on thin spray on liners to address weak rock mass conditions for underground mines based on a practical engineering approach with concepts from mining, civil and tunneling engineering.