Analysis of the state of research on blast energy management of borehole charges

Purpose. A comprehensive analysis of scientific research on managing the spatiotemporal distribution of blast energy by combining dispersed borehole charges and electronic initiation systems, as well as recommendations for the design of drilling and blasting operations to increase the efficiency of hard rock fragmentation. Methodology. The research is based on a critical synthesis of theoretical-empirical approaches using mathematical models of continuum and discrete media mechanics, the equation of state for detonation products, and wave dynamics. Efficiency assessment was carried out using finite element methods, explicit dynamics, and the multi-criteria hierarchy analysis. Findings. It has been proven that the use of charges with air cavities acts as a thermodynamic damper, reducing the initial peak pressure on the borehole walls and prolonging the quasi-static phase of gas action. Simultaneously, the application of programmable detonators with microsecond accuracy ensures the head-on collision of wave fronts. This creates zones of artificial constructive interference where tensile stresses double, guaranteed to exceed the rock’s tensile strength limit. Originality. The formation of an integrated analytical approach that considers blast energy management as a unified spatiotemporal system, where the charge architecture acts as a spatial regulator of energy release, and the electronic system serves as its ultra-precise temporal synchronizer. Practical value. The synergistic combination of air gaps and ultra-precise temporal synchronization radically improves fragmentation uniformity, reduces specific energy consumption at subsequent beneficiation stages, and shifts the seismic vibration spectrum into a safe high-frequency range. The proposed approach forms a solid scientific foundation for the transition of enterprises to deterministic predictive design.