ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the important parameters used in blast performance control. The parameters include blast geometry, initiation performance, detonation performance, breakage performance, fragmentation, blast damage. In the initial stages of testing new explosives, initiation methods, or mining and excavation methods, good planning of the work is only one of many requirements for success. It is necessary to follow the different phases in the field operation when the methods are finally tested on a production scale. The introduction of large-diameter drillholes in mining has made it possible to reduce development work because drilling has become more precise, and longer holes can be drilled. In most rock blasting operations, the broken rock should be thrown only far enough to allow room for expansion of the broken rock. The chapter concludes that when comparing different explosives in the same rock material, the comparison must be made while keeping the geometry of the blast constant.
