Managing squeezing ground in underground mines: an integrated toolbox

Authors: Barbosa Costa, LC; Roldán Portal, JA

DOI https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/2625_39

Cite As:
Barbosa Costa, LC & Roldán Portal, JA 2026, 'Managing squeezing ground in underground mines: an integrated toolbox', in D Cumming-Potvin & J Wesseloo (eds), Ground Support 2026: Proceedings of the 11th International Conference on Ground Support in Mining, Australian Centre for Geomechanics, Perth, pp. 1-16, https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/2625_39

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Abstract:
Underground mines with weak rock masses subjected to relatively high stress levels may experience squeezing ground conditions, which represents a major challenge for ground support performance and excavation serviceability. Rehabilitation becomes frequent, and large convergences can restrict equipment access. Conventional approaches based primarily on increasing support capacity are often insufficient to manage these conditions effectively. This paper presents an integrated squeezing ground management methodology comprising a series of tools that can be used to estimate squeezing levels, appropriate support selection based on deformation demand and yielded zone characterisation, mine layout optimisation and monitoring. A practical damage mapping matrix developed specifically for squeezing ground is presented as a preliminary risk management tool to support rehabilitation prioritisation and decision-making. In addition, the paper demonstrates how development profile optimisation can reduce buckling susceptibility in anisotropic rock masses and how calibrated numerical modelling can be used to evaluate alternative mine layout scenarios.

Keywords: squeezing, weak rock, convergence, damage mapping, mine layout, numerical modelling, development profile

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