A review of image analysis techniques for measuring blast fragmentation

This paper discusses the growing interest in developing more reliable quantitative methods to characterize the size distribution of blasted rock in both surface and underground mines. The results of such work can form important input for blast design optimization and mine production control. The evolution and nature of image analysis techniques applied to the photography of blasted material are reviewed. Adopted procedures and experiences arising from field research are then presented, based upon projects undertaken at producing mines in Canada, Africa and the U.K.