Abstract
<jats:p>The article presents an integral adaptation criterion developed by the authors, which is a normalized quantitative measure (Kadapt) for selecting rational techniques in designing drilling and blasting operations. This measure combines specific criteria of efficiency and safety into a single dimensionless value: quality index of fragmentation, seismic safety, flyrock travel range, correspondence of the blast pulse to the rock mass properties, and economic costs. The weight factors of the integral criterion reflect the production priorities of the company regarding the balance between efficiency and safety. For a clear comparison of different technique options, the authors propose using a radar chart, which visualizes contribution of each specific criterion. A technique (or a combination of techniques) is considered rational if its integral criterion is closest to one, which corresponds to the optimal balance of all the considered parameters. The article provides a methodology for selecting the weight factors. The proposed approach helps to make a comprehensive assessment and optimization of the drilling-and-blasting design parameters in response to changes in the mining-geological and mining-engineering conditions during the development of complex-structure solid mineral deposits.</jats:p>