Advances in Explosives Engineering for Mining Applications

Abstract

This paper reviews recent advances in explosives engineering for mining, focusing on three interlinked areas: energetic formulations (particularly emulsion explosives), precision initiation systems (electronic and wireless detonators), and blast design & vibration-control methodologies. Advances in emulsion chemistry and sensitization have increased safety, water resistance, and energy density; electronic initiation systems and improved sequencing algorithms have enabled millisecond-level control of stress-wave interactions and improved fragmentation; and enhanced monitoring + numerical optimization reduce environmental impacts (vibration, flyrock) while improving downstream comminution efficiency. The review highlights current best practices, regulatory and safety considerations, and research directions (materials, digital blasting, and environmental forensics).