Course overview
This course builds a fundamental understanding of the science and engineering behind commercial blasting, with a focus on how explosive properties, rock mass conditions, and drill-and-blast parameters interact to influence fragmentation, vibration, and overall operational performance. Participants develop practical blast design knowledge grounded in detonation and shock physics, drilling fundamentals, and rock fragmentation concepts, then apply that knowledge to blast optimization and evaluation. Lectures may include guest speakers from academic, government, and explosives engineering organizations.
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
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Explain core terminology and the chemistry of explosives, propellants, and pyrotechnics
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Describe methods of explosive manufacturing and how they relate to performance and application
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Explain basic detonation theory and shock wave physics relevant to blasting
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Interpret key explosive properties and common testing concepts
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Describe drilling fundamentals for both surface and underground blasting operations
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Explain rock fragmentation fundamentals and how blast design parameters influence outcomes
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Identify critical blast design parameters and constraints for surface and underground environments
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Apply introductory blast optimization and evaluation concepts to improve fragmentation and mitigate vibration
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Discuss how improved blast control can support operational efficiency and cost control (operational and capital expenditure)
Topics covered
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Chemistry of explosives, propellants, and pyrotechnics
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Methods of manufacturing
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Explosive properties and testing
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Detonation fundamentals and shock wave physics
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Drilling and blasting for surface and underground operations
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Rock fragmentation fundamentals
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Blast design for surface and underground blasting
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Critical parameters, criteria, limitations, and evaluation processes
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Blast design optimization and analysis
6-week topic outline
Week 1: Course introduction; terms and definitions; chemistry of explosives/propellants/pyrotechnics; methods of manufacturing (Quiz #1)
Week 2: Detonation basics; shock wave physics; explosive properties and testing (Quiz #2)
Week 3: Drilling fundamentals for surface and underground blasting operations (Quiz #3)
Week 4: Rock fragmentation basics; blast design for surface and underground blasting; overview of critical parameters (Quiz #4)
Week 5: Blast design and analysis optimization; evaluation processes; size-specific criteria and limitations (Quiz #5)
Week 6: Open discussion; exam review; Final Exam; certificates
Quizzes
Quizzes may be given at any time to assess comprehension of lecture material, including quizzes aligned with each section/week.
Final written examination and certificate
A final written examination will demonstrate student learning. After successful completion of course requirements, participants will receive a certificate.
Instructor / organization
Petr Explosives Group is a private explosives training company based in Golden, Colorado, founded by Dr. Vilem Petr (former Colorado School of Mines professor) with over 20 years of experience in explosives education, research, and industry. Guest speakers may be included from academic, government, and explosives engineering sectors.
Attendance and assignments
Timely completion of assignments is required. Homework and assignments should be completed before the next lecture/section.
Course text
Drilling and Blasting of Rocks — C. López Jimeno, E. López Jimeno, Francisco Javier Ayala Carcedo (2017).
Audio note
This course contains audio—please ensure your volume is turned up.
