3460 Seismicity evolution and rockburst control in the Merensky Reef and UG2 Orebody, An Intermediate Depth Platinum Mine Case Study
Abstract
Typically, mining-induced seismicity is commonly manifests as mining operations extend to deeper levels, with the frequency and magnitude of these events’ dependent on a number of variables and factors. This phenomenon holds true of many South African mines, in the past related to deep level gold mines but in recent times, the platinum orebodies have shown susceptibility to increasing levels of dynamic ground motion. Both mine equipment and the frontline workers are exposed to the consequences of these seismic events, which may translate into damage and the closure of ore-bearing excavations. In the past, and it is still common practice, this threat was mitigated by adhering to and executing according to the appropriate mine and rock engineering design principles. To support the design, seismic monitoring techniques have been used successfully to provide additional information to the geotechnical engineer so that designs can be amended to reduce the threat. Since the commissioning of the mine’s seismic system in April 2023, the system has recorded over 1939 seismic events. The number and magnitude of events recorded are not typical of a platinum operation. However, the system has allowed intense scrutiny of designs in areas with high seismogenic activity. Such activity may translate into rockburst risk depending on the mining rate, increase in stress, mine plan execution, pillar cutting, etc. Therefore, the operation must be keenly interested in seismic activity assessments and rockburst forecasting.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Dr Richard Masethe, Shane Durapraj, Unathi Maqina, Amoussou C Adoko
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