Process / pipelineGeotechnical Design

Stope Layout Optimization

Stope layout optimization is the process of designing the size, shape, and spatial arrangement of underground mine excavations (stopes) to maximize ore recovery while maintaining safety and economic viability. It balances the desire for large extraction volumes against rock mechanics constraints and support costs. The layout determines mining productivity, capital investment in support systems, and long-term mine life.

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Sources

  1. Brady, B. H. G., & Brown, E. T. (2004). Rock mechanics for underground mining. Springer Science+Business Media. DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4419-0820-1
  2. Langford, J. C., & Diederichs, M. S. (2011). Assessing and managing underground excavation hazards. Norwegian University of Science and Technology. link

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Referenced by

ScholarGateStope Layout (Stope Layout Optimization for Underground Mining). Retrieved 2026-06-04 from https://scholargate.app/en/mining-engineering/stope-layout