Large scale grouting in mining

This paper presents the concept of grouting using oilfield scale hydrofracture pumping systems to treat faulted and permeable rock masses to seal them against water movement and to consolidate them. The reasoning behind this is that such systems are readily available in many locations and offer much higher flow at high pressures over the small scale grouting systems that are typically used in mining. The potential exists to grout faulted rock masses so that mine de-watering pumping needs are minimised when the mine is developed. Filling pore spaces to displace water from the body of the rock mass will be more difficult but may be possible in some very porous formations.