An adaptive control framework for drilling and blasting operations in complex-structured deposits

V.L. Yakovlev, S.N. Zharikov, A.S. Regotunov, V.A. Kutuev
Institute of Mining Ural Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, Ekaterinburg, Russian Federation
Russian Mining Industry №3/ 2026 p. 179-184

Abstract: The paper presents the results of developing a structural framework for phased adaptive control of drilling and blasting parameters in open-pit mining of complex-structured mineral deposits. The relevance of the study is driven by insufficient efficiency of the existing static drilling and blasting design methods in conditions of non-uniform subsurface geology, high rock fracturing, and varying physical and mechanical properties of rocks. This leads to resource and energy losses, as well as an increased seismic impact. The methodological foundation of the work is based on the principles of the explosion zone theory and the blast impulse theory of the borehole charge. The developed formalized block diagram describes an iterative adaptation process, which includes the following stages: continuous monitoring and collection of the initial data, involving assessment of the rock mass stress state through acoustic impedance analysis; analysis of the current mining-geological conditions and design solutions; and multi-criteria selection of the rational techniques. Management techniques affecting the peak pressure and its duration are systematized and grouped into two main categories, i.e. modification of the charge parameters (decking, sleeve charging, explosive type) and spatiotemporal control of the blast (sequence, initiation pattern, and type of the initiation system). The objective of applying this framework is to adjust the design blast pulse to a sufficient level that would ensure efficient rock fragmentation while simultaneously reducing the seismic effect on the surrounding rock mass. The proposed approach aims to create a scientifically grounded tool for dynamic optimization of the drilling and blasting operations, enhancing technological efficiency and safety when mining complex-structured deposits.

Keywords: complex-structured deposits, drilling and blasting operations, adaptive control, explosion pulse, zonal theory of blasting, acoustic impedance, rock fragmentation techniques, spatiotemporal blast control, seismic safety, adaptation block diagram

Acknowledgements: The research was performed within the framework of the State Assignment No.075-00408-26-00, Topic 1 (2025–2027): A methodology for assessing the prospects for technological progress in integrated development of solid mineral resources in the Russian Federation (FUWE-2025-0001), Reg. No.125070908257-0

For citation: Yakovlev V.L., Zharikov S.N., Regotunov A.S., Kutuev V.A. An adaptive control framework for drilling and blasting operations in complex-structured deposits. Russian Mining Industry. 2026;(3):179–184. https://doi.org/10.30686/1609-9192-2026-3-179-184

Article info

Received: 02.03.2026

Revised: 24.03.2026

Accepted: 16.04.2026

Information about the authors

Viktor L. Yakovlev – Dr. Sci. (Eng.), Professor, Advisor of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Corresponding Member of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Leading Researcher, Institute of Mining Ural Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, Ekaterinburg, Russian Federation; https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5860-9626; e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Sergey N. Zharikov – Cand. Sci. (Eng.), Head of Laboratory, Leading Researcher, Institute of Mining Ural Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, Ekaterinburg, Russian Federation; https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0322-9973; е-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Andrey S. Regotunov – Cand. Sci. (Eng.), Senior Researcher, Institute of Mining Ural Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, Ekaterinburg, Russian Federation; https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5503-9397; е-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Vyacheslav A. Kutuev – Researcher, Institute of Mining Ural Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, Ekaterinburg, Russian Federation; https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8423-0246; е-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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