An evaluation method of rock blastability in tunnel blasting based on drilling parameters of rock-drilling jumbos

Accurate and real-time classification of rock blastability is key to the precise design of tunnel blasting operations, as it directly determines the safety, progress, and cost of tunnel blasting excavation. This work proposed an evaluation method of rock blastability in tunnel blasting based on drilling parameters of rock-drilling jumbos. Firstly, the relationship between rock crushing specific energy and dynamic-static mechanical parameters was investigated. As the crushing specific energy exhibits the highest linear correlation with uniaxial compressive strengths, a corresponding model between crushing specific energy and uniaxial compressive strengths was established. Secondly, the drilling parameters of rock-drilling jumbos were analyzed, then the relationship between impact-specific energy and crushing specific energy was examined, and a relational model between crushing specific energy and drilling parameters was developed. Last, a rock blastability evaluation method based on drilling parameters was proposed by integrating the Protodyakonov and Sudakov classification methods. It enables real-time evaluation of rock blastability ahead of the tunnel face using drilling parameters, without requiring additional physico-mechanical parameters of the rock, thereby significantly improving both the efficiency and precision of tunnel blasting design.