Effect of water on ANFO/emulsion blends in surface mine blasting

Conference · Tue Dec 31 04:00:00 EST 1996

OSTI ID:433584

Schettler, L; Brashear, S

The effect of water on several ANFO/emulsion blend ratios is documented by both physical observations and analytical testing to demonstrate the effect even small quantities of water can have on water resistant blends. A series of tests were performed utilizing 150 mm diameter clear PVC pipe. Water quantities of 75 mm to 305 mm were introduced to the pipes prior to loading with straight ANFO and emulsion blends with ratios varying from 80/20 to 60/40. Temperature change, column height, water height and blend height were measured every fifteen minutes for a period of one hour. Observations indicated that the presence of water at the bottom of the column resulted in a discontinuity in the bottom of the observed explosive column, with the level of interference proportional to the ANFO/emulsion ratio. Resultant velocity of detonation values document influence of water on all tested blend products. The quantity of water present prior to product loading can change explosive performance. The failures of some 60/40 blends in water demonstrate the need for 50/50 blend ratios to insure a water resistant product. Failure of straight ANFO in water was demonstrated. Some failures were recorded in tests using bottom initiation with 150 mm of water and blend product, indicating the critical importance of booster placement in wet environments when utilizing bottom initiation.

• OSTI ID: 433584
• Report Number(s): CONF-960262--
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

01 COAL, LIGNITE, AND PEAT
CHEMICAL EXPLOSIVES
DECOMPOSITION
EXPLOSIVE FRACTURING
OVERBURDEN
PERFORMANCE TESTING
STABILIZATION
SURFACE MINING
WATER INFLUX