Abstract: A method of mining in a rock formation, includes drilling blastholes extending into the rock formation. Each of the blastholes has a depth between a first end and a second end. For each blasthole the second end thereof is deeper into the rock formation than the first end thereof. The method further includes loading the blastholes with alternating layers of explosives charges and stemming material to establish a succession of blasting decks or sections extending across and within the rock formation. The rock formation includes at least a first blasting deck or section and a second blasting deck or section.

Abstract: An aspect of the present invention relates to a method of mining in a rock formation, comprising: drilling blastholes extending into the rock formation, each of the blastholes having a depth between a first end and a second end, wherein for each blasthole the second end thereof is deeper into the rock formation than the first end thereof; loading the blastholes with alternating layers of explosives charges and stemming material to establish a succession of blasting decks or sections extending across and within the rock formation including a first blasting deck or section and at least a second blasting deck or section, wherein each blasting deck or section beyond the first blasting deck or section extends deeper into the rock formation than the first blasting deck or section; and after establishing the multiple blasting decks or sections extending across and within the rock formation, selectively initiating the explosives charges in a series of stages based on blasting deck or section proceeding consecutively