Vibration-Safe Blasting: A Study on Parameter Optimization: A Meta-Analytic Review

Abstract

Ground vibrations induced by blasting operations in mining, quarrying, and construction 
pose significant risks to nearby structures, ecosystems, and community well-being, while also 
attracting stringent regulatory scrutiny. Optimizing blast design parameters offers the most 
direct engineering control over vibration propagation. This paper synthesizes past research 
through a comprehensive meta-analysis focused on identifying and quantifying the influence 
of key blast design parameters on peak particle velocity (PPV), the primary vibration metric. 
Analysis of aggregated data from numerous field studies reveals that scaled distance (SD), 
incorporating both maximum instantaneous charge (MIC) per delay and distance, remains 
the paramount predictor, following the power-law relationship PPV = K  (SD)^-β, though 
site-specific K and β values exhibit considerable variability. Beyond SD, precise delay timing, 
particularly inter-hole and inter-row delays, emerges as critical for vibration reduction 
through effective fragmentation and wave superposition/cancellation. Hole geometry 
(diameter, depth, inclination), stemming pattern (burden, spacing, stiffness ratio), and 
decking strategies significantly influence energy distribution and confinement, thereby 
impacting vibration generation. Initiation sequence and directionality also play measurable 
roles. While empirical scaled distance laws dominate prediction, recent trends integrate 
advanced monitoring, numerical modeling (FEM, DEM), and machine learning for enhanced 
understanding and site-specific optimization. This review underscores that effective vibration 
minimization requires a holistic approach, moving beyond simplistic SD reliance to 
meticulously control charge distribution, timing, and blast geometry, tailored to local 
geomechanical conditions and regulatory limits.