A methodology based on strain analysis for identifying potential discontinuous deformation zones in sublevel caving mines

Underground mining operations using the sublevel caving method often result in discontinuous ground deformations involving surface cracks. Determining the limit of the discontinuous deformation zone is important for the relocation of neighbouring residential areas, mining infrastructure, and the planning of underground mining operations. The limit of the discontinuous deformation zone is characterised by the outermost surface crack, which is a...