Blasting and Sliding Parameter Optimization for Efficient Autonomous Construction Rock Debris Sliding Transportation in an Inclined Shaft

In the construction of inclined shaft projects, the efficient transportation of rock debris following blasting excavation is a crucial factor affecting the progress of the construction schedule. Given that traditional rock debris transport by trucks is both time-consuming and labor-intensive, utilizing height differentials for autonomous rock debris sliding transport offers green, low-carbon, and highly efficient advantages. When the shaft’s inclination is small, the inclination of the sliding surface and the gradation of blast fragments are key factors influencing the stability and efficiency of autonomous rock debris transport. This study aims to determine the optimal blasting parameters and sliding surface characteristics through model experiments to enable autonomous rock debris transport in gently inclined projects. In this paper, we first examined the rock debris sliding process in the construction of gently inclined shafts, developed a model testing device for rock debris sliding, and conducted 75 sets of model tests, with shaft inclination and blast fragment gradation as the primary variables. We analyzed the main factors affecting autonomous rock debris sliding and determined a minimum shaft inclination of 34° and the corresponding optimal blasting gradation. These findings were successfully applied in a real-world project, achieving efficient, autonomous rock debris transport. It provided a sustainable and energy-efficient alternative to traditional construction rock debris transportation methods, offering a design reference for rock debris transport in similar hydropower plants, underground mining, and tunnel excavation projects.