We are a growing community of mining professionals who are committed to making the world a safer, more efficient, and more sustainable place. We believe that through innovation, collaboration, and education, we can advance the science and practice of blasting and create a future where Drill&Blast is a force for good. Since creativity needs to be trained and stimulated, and we, as humans, also like to enjoy life and its good moments, why don’t we do all of this together?
Chaired Professor in Mining and Rock Engineering at Luleå University of Technology
08:00
08:30
09:30-18:00
Automated Drill-Rig with EPIROC and Sandvik
(equipment utilized through dstgroup and Explonorte collaboration)
Borehole Deviation Control with O-Pitblast and Carlson
On-Site Fragmentation with Wipware.
Automated MMU with Moura Explosivos.
Plant Fragmentation Analysis with WipWare
LiDar Drone System with dstgroup and Carlson
19:00
08:00
9:30
09:45
Current landscape of Drilling and Blasting – knowledge and understanding. Strategies for Industry-wide data Integration, challenges and Future Advancements.
10:45
11:30
Discussing the integration of robots, automation, and advanced technologies in blasting processes to upgrade mining methods. The focus will be on improving techniques for a more sustainable future in the mining sector.
12:00
A historical perspective on blasting theory, exploring how the industry has progressively integrated new technologies over time to enhance safety, increase performance rates, and improve efficiency in mining and construction operations.
12:30
14:00
Explore the forefront of blast design innovation with a revolutionary approach and methodology, integrating cutting-edge digitalization techniques. Prioritizing enhanced efficiency and safety, we customize explosive density to rock properties, ensuring optimum results with every blast in both Open Pit and Underground operations.
14:30
How can we successfully advance drill and blast technology if we forget the lessons of our past? What efforts are we taking to preserve the lessons of the past for today and the future? Join Nathan and let’s try to understand what we can do to save those lessons so we don’t have to relearn them in the future.
15:00
Shockwave Gel Technologies brings a world-first innovation in stemming material. Reliably generating greater pressure wave impedance and causing greater fragmentation with reduced dust and noise, Trouchet also reveals how simple it is to consistently achieve superior blast results with vastly less carbon emissions than traditional aggregate stemming.
15:30
16:00
The digital twin for mining blasts is revolutionizing the mining industry by enhancing blast efficiency and reducing environmental impact. This innovative concept uses advanced technologies such as physics, artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and data analytics to create an accurate virtual replica of mining operations. This replica allows for meticulous planning and optimization of blasts, reducing costs, improving safety, and minimizing adverse environmental effects. This conference explores how the integration of digital twins is transforming traditional mining practices by offering sustainable and efficient solutions. Concrete examples will be presented to illustrate the practical applications and benefits of this technology.
16:30
To present new methodologies in blasting initiation systems, such as the Next3e device, which is an electronic adapter without explosive charge for its manufacture, transport and storage.
17:00
08:00
08:50
8:30
A historical perspective on blasting theory, exploring how the industry has progressively integrated new technologies over time to enhance safety, increase performance rates, and improve efficiency in mining and construction operations.
09:00
Case studies of measuring blast fragmentation at the crusher: analyzing truck loads as they are added to the crusher and giving valuable feedback on blast quality without disrupting the mucking process or interfering with shovels operation. Recent applications of this type to showcase the technology (AI and Deep Learning) at work, both in quarries or mines.
9:30
In the resources industry, there is no dearth of data. We have been collecting data through various sources. Key is the value we create and capture from the data. This presentation will focus on how different ecosystem partners in the value chain need to come together with a collaborative mindset to deliver value in transforming Data to Insights and then to Intelligence.
10:00
11:00
Obtaining accurate data in blast holes is essential for optimising costs, improving operational efficiency, and minimising risks in industries such as mining, construction, and civil engineering. SPT has developed an innovative solution that precisely surveys deviations, overcoming the limitations of traditional equipment and reducing data collection time, allowing for more precise and effective control of operations.
11:30
With case studies from Africa, North America, Middle East and Europe, Eugene will detail a contextual approach to getting the most out of drilling and blasting through combining solid blast engineering design principles.
12:30
14:00
Francisco Leite | COO | O-Pitblast
Evan Thibaud | CEO | Pneu Wave
D&B Design Thinking Workshop (Empathize |Define |Ideate)
In this module, you will work in groups and receive an overview of the Design Thinking Process. You will learn about empathizing with and understanding the end-users of an idea, defining that idea, and initiating the ideation process.
16:30
17:00
D&B Design Thinking Workshop (Prototype)
In this module, you will begin working on a prototype based on the persona and ideas generated in the previous module.
18:30
19:00
21:00
– International Dinner Party
The international Dinner Party will be held on the Leixoes Cruise Terminal. The Leixoes Cruise Terminal is a modern cruise terminal located in the city of Matosinhos, Portugal, offering splendid views of the Atlantic Ocean. It holds the distinction of being the largest cruise terminal in the country, housing a significant innovation center. Bring your most imaginative dress code or a dress code from your country!
23:00
08:00
08:50
09:00
The key steps, successful factors and issues met during the development of Davey Bickford Enaex innovative initiation solution: DaveyTronic Swift®, using Design Thinking and Agile methodologies.
09:00
09:30
10:00
10:30
D&B Design Thinking Workshop (Prototype)
In this module, you will be working and finalizing your prototype based on the persona and ideas generated in the previous module.
12:30
14:00
D&B Design Thinking Workshop (Test/Presentations)
In this module, you will be presenting your Persona, the Problem and the Prototype.
16:00
17:00
Helicopter Ride
The winner of the helicopter ride, along with the Diamond Sponsors, will have the opportunity to take a helicopter ride over the city of Porto.
17:30
Boat Ride
We’ll watch the sunset by the Douro River, have some drinks and snacks, and wrap up the event.
19:00
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She is a mining engineer specializing in process management and quality control, with a strong focus on technological tools in the mining sector. Her expertise includes hardware and software for hole deviation analysis, drilling, and blasting. Passionate about leveraging technology to solve problems and create new opportunities in mining, she enjoys engaging with industry peers at events and fairs to build lasting relationships and explore new business prospects.
Maxime Cruz holds a Master in Geosciences, Exploration and Natural Hazards and a MS in Mining Operations and Environment from l’Ecole des Mines d’Alès, France. His journey started as a Technical Application Engineer at Maxam in Spain and Ghana. Then, he joined Davey Bickford which become Enaex as a Technical Manager in Europe. He is passionate about supporting his customers on the use of Enaex Electronic Initiation System portfolio, helping them generate value from it and providing technical expertise in their daily blasting operations.
Vegard Olsen likes to be reffered to as a practical academic. He graduated as Civil Engineer (MSc) in 1998, in Building and Construction Engineering at the Norwegian Univercity of Science and Technology (NTNU). Worked ten years at NTNU, Department Heavvy Construcion Engineering, as researcher and assistant professor and finalizing his Phd in 2009 titled: Rock Quarrying – Safety, Performance and Costs. He then stepped out and into the blasting industry, working six years as Technical Service Engineer and Lead at Orica Norway. After that a six years periode as Reginonal manager at Franzefoss aggregate company in Norway. Since March 2020 he has been employed at Forcit Norway as Sales and Marketing Manager. During all working years, Vegard has been lecturing at NTNU, writing papers (mostly co-writing), involved within the Norwegian Tunnelling Association and willingly giving presentaions at various conferences domestic and abroad.
With a PhD in Mining Engineering, Juan brings five years of experience as a modelling and simulation specialist at MAXAM. His role involves the development and on-site implementation of customized algorithms and cutting-edge digital tools, aimed at optimizing blasting operations. Additionally, he manages various technological and digital research projects within the mining sector.
Dr. Nathan Rouse, a global drill and blast expert, joins WBI. He founded Thoroughbred Drill and Blast Consultants to translate advanced technical skills into practical solutions. Thoroughbred specializes in instrumentation and root cause analysis for reliable and effective outcomes. Their clients include prominent underground and surface mining and construction operators worldwide.
The drill and blast industry is undergoing a major technological transformation. Thoroughbred facilitates that transformation with technical expertise, education, and industry partnership.
Nikolaos Petropoulos is working as Assistant Professor at Luleå University of Technology and as Senior Research Engineer at LKAB mining company. He is experienced experimentalist in the field of blasting engineering. He has been working with implementation of cutting-edge technologies in mining industry.
I am currently the Managing Director at ERG Industrial, where we get to do some pretty cool things in the world of mining and blasting. At the center of all of these cool things we get to do, the main focus is to help mines improve their blasting outcomes. Blasting is the first step in the mining value chain – any gains that you make in blasting lead to exponential gains in downstream productivity and profitability. I help mines and quarries achieve these gains.
Experienced Director with a demonstrated history of working in the mining & metals industry. Skilled in Materials Science, Mining, Minerals, Modeling, and Underground Mining. Strong professional with a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) focused in Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering from Luleå University of Technology.
Experienced Global Senior executive and a Non-Executive Director with a proven track record in creating and executing enterprise level business transformation programs focusing on value-driven digital acceleration in the energy and resources industry.
Strong professional with domain expertise steering digital transformation, technology innovation, and organizational growth with a diverse functional portfolio comprising of Information Technology, Engineering, Manufacturing, M&A, Sales & Marketing and Operations for innovative firms in the energy and resources sector combined with the acquired skills of working in a multi-culture environment in US, South East Asia, Europe, United Kingdom, and Australia.
Recognized as a savvy leader in driving consensus across diverse organizations and making strategic business decisions to deliver results. Proven ability to successfully commercialize innovative technologies including native digital transformations. Metrics-driven leader who maximizes P&L opportunities. Possesses a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from University of Tulsa, an MBA from Indiana University, a Certification program on Business Analytics & Data Science from Harvard University, a Certification program on Cyber Security from Oxford and a Graduate of Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Arnaldo Arancibia is a multifaceted professional who not only serves as an inventor but also as a pioneering figure in the field of blasting initiation systems. Notably, he has contributed to the advancement of this technology with the creation of the world’s first non-explosive electronic detonator.
He has provided consultancy services, training and actively participated in operations related to controlled rock fragmentation in both underground and surface. His contributions extend to the development of tunnels using explosives, drilling, and blasting techniques.
He excels in engineering development and designs, and his experience encompasses the successful execution of 27 rock excavation applications employing non-explosive systems across various Latin American countries.
I am a Senior Technical Specialist at WipWare, where we make powerful, easy-to-use software and equipment to measure blast fragmentation, moments after the blast. Knowing the size and shape of the muck is necessary to improve the next blast, and when you track these blast trends over time and location, that knowledge becomes a valuable and effective tool for decision-making and continuous improvement. Because blasting is cool, but blasting to the precise size which you said you could is utterly impressive.
Evan Thibaud’s experience spans a global understanding of blasting applications. From open pit metal mining 100 miles north of the Arctic Circle to 1000s of meters below the surface in various types of underground applications. Pneu Wave Consulting bridges the gap between those who create new blasting technology and those who are on the pattern daily. His unique ability to join various types of teams to achieve specific technical applications allows for diverse solutions to operational issues. Evan’s background in misfire management and product development brings innovation to the industry to create a more safe and effective blasting program.
Mason Trouchet has over 34 years’ experience in the mining industry across Australian and International markets. His expertise lies in bringing innovative solutions for soil stabilization, dust control, ore conditioning & beneficiation, mine rehabilitation & revegetation, as well as blast control.
In 2020 Mason formed, as a Founding Director with Damien Browne, Shockwave Gel Technologies and is currently responsible for the global business development of the Shockwave Group of companies.
Mason also is the global technical sales representative for Rainstorm Dust Control, a position he has held for over 20 years.
Thierry Bernard is the founder and Chairman of DNA-Blast Group, a company specializing in simulation and explosives engineering for the mining industry. He holds an master degree from Arts et Métiers engineering school (France) and holds a PhD in Sciences, specializing in the geodynamics of soils subjected to explosive loads. Thierry BERNARD began his career as an engineer in charge of a drilling and blasting unit, before devoting 17 years to the development of an electronic detonator and associated techniques, including 4 years with BME South Africa (that acquired his technology), as manager of the electronic detonator unit. Today, he chairs over the DNA-Blast group and its 9 subsidiaries, which market its I-Blast™ software and provide engineering services based on the only 4D blast digital twin on the market. Thierry BERNARD is the author of more than thirty international publications.
Francisco Leite is an MBA graduate from Porto Business School and holds a Master’s degree in Mining and Geo-Environment Engineering from the Engineering Faculty of Porto University. He is the co-founder and current Chief Operating Officer at O-Pitblast. With experience in international mining projects in countries such as Russia, Bulgaria, Finland, Brazil, Peru, Chile, Colombia, Morocco, Guinea-Bissau, Cameroon, and Mozambique, he was responsible for the Technical Control and Optimization Services of rock blasting operations. Prior to this, he worked as a Project Engineer at Cobre Las Cruces Mine (First Quantum Minerals) and as a Mine Supervisor at Tasiast Gold Mine – KINROSS. Today, his responsibilities include managing the Projects, Sales, and Marketing teams at O-Pitblast.
