Delineation of structural domains and joint sets at the Ekati(TM) Diamond Mine and implications for underground mining (Northwest Territories)

Rock mass stability is of critical importance to the safety and economic viability of underground hard rock mining operations. Evaluation of discrete failure mechanisms requires that the structural geology of the area be well understood. Interpretation of structural data is often subjective; a quantitative approach is desired.; In the fall of 2001 a joint research project between BHP Billiton Diamonds Inc. and the University of Alberta was initiated to evaluate structural geology features at the Ekati(TM) Diamond Mine. The end objective of the project was to predict structurally controlled problems that may prohibit successful employment of the open bench underground mining method on the Koala North kimberlite pipe.; Structural geology data from a variety of sources was collected, manipulated and modelled into structural domains using statistical tools. It was determined that joint controlled instability mechanisms would not be sufficient to seriously jeopardize an operation at Koala North.