Project TRINIDAD - Explosive Excavation Tests in Sandstone and Shale

摘要

A series of single-, row-, and multiple-charge cratering detonations, with individual charge weights of one to two tons, were carried out in weak, interbedded sandstones and shales near Trinidad, Colorado, in 1970 and 1971. The principal objectives of these excavation experiments were: to obtain single-charge cratering curves; to verify row-charge designs for achieving a specified excavation; to determine the effects of millisecond delays in row-charge cratering; to experiment with cratering in varying terrain; and to compare the cratering effectiveness of several explosives. Three varieties of aluminized ammonium-nitrate blasting agents and ANFO were used. Airblast and seismic effects of each detonation were monitored. The series culminated with the excavation of a 400-foot long railway cut with 44 tons of explosives distributed among 32 charges. (Author)