What milestones did Dyno Nobel reach in 2023 and 2024?

We launched the DigiShot XR series, which includes three new electronic detonators: DigiShot XR, DigiShot Plus XR, and DigiShot Plus XRS. These detonators are engineered to resist shock and electromagnetic pulse, which greatly enhances safety and operational efficiency. We are actively engaged in Drill to Mill projects in the Western mining sector, where we collaborate with customers to optimize blasting operations tailored to their requirements. Can you detail a recent case study?

We built a strong partnership with Rio Tinto Kennecott. Our focus was on increasing the fines percentage, especially in the minus half-inch size fraction, to boost mill throughput. By collaborating with the mine’s milling personnel, we identified bottlenecks and optimized blast designs. Using TITAN bulk explosives and Delta E2 (ΔE2) methodologies, we effectively delivered explosive energy, leading to a 15% increase in mill throughput and a 5-10% rise in the minus half-inch size fraction. Kennecott saved US$58.1 million as a result. We saw unquantified downstream benefits, like improved truck and shovel cycle times and better bucket fill factors. How have tailor-made solutions evolved?

Advancements in technology have made it easier to understand performance metrics, particularly with sensor technology that tracks power consumption and fragmentation. For the Drill to Mill project mentioned, we modeled the blast, predicting outcomes, and then conducted physical screenings to measure actual fragmentation, which validated our models. Our technology, like ΔE2, is instrumental because it allows us to adjust the energy and density of bulk emulsion in the hole based on insights from drilling. We can modify the density up to six times within a single borehole, ensuring explosive energy is applied precisely where needed. What is the role of data in blasting operations?

Data is a cornerstone of optimizing blasting operations. Our ΔE2 technology uses data from drilling and other sources to characterize rock properties, enabling targeted energy placement within blast holes. This technology allows us to implement up to six different density profiles in a single borehole, significantly enhancing control over fragmentation and overall blasting efficiency. We leverage existing data from mines and integrate it into our Preload software to develop load plans that guide our trucks in real time. Differential GPS technology in our detonators ensures precise timing for each blast hole, while our Nobel Fire platform offers tools for predicting vibrations and modeling fragmentation before blasting occurs. The platform includes a mobile app for real-time data entry during drilling and loading and post-blast analysis features. This comprehensive data-driven approach allows us to visualize and assess explosive performance trends, making data critical to continuous improvement in our operations. We envision incorporating machine learning and AI to refine decision-making processes further. Can you elaborate on Dyno Nobel’s approach to research and development (R&D)?

We operate an R&D facility in Lehi, Utah, and will soon commission a new facility in Tooele, Utah. This new site will feature a test range, pilot plant for formulation work, and a fully equipped analytical laboratory to assess our explosives. R&D is fundamental to our mission, and we have facilities globally, including in Australia, France, Turkey, Indonesia and South Africa. How do you promote environmental responsibility and help mines reduce emissions?

We committed resources to enhance our manufacturing facilities, exploring blue and green ammonia sources and launching a nitrogen abatement project in Louisiana. We are targeting a reduction of scope one and two emissions in our manufacturing footprint while also assisting our customers with their scope three emissions. Our innovations, such as DIFFERENTIAL ENERGY, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve safety by minimizing ground vibrations, dust, noise and fly rock. Our TITAN Bulk Emulsions are designed to reduce groundwater contamination and post-blast fumes, and we can use various fuels in our formulations, including biodiesel and ammonia. What is Dyno Nobel’s value proposition in the Western US and beyond?

The Western US is not fundamentally different from other mining areas, and we are successful operating there. Our growth strategies focus on leading the industry with innovative, best-in-class explosive products and technology. Our R&D and manufacturing facilities allow us to create tailored solutions, aiming for unmatched safety and productivity. We plan to expand our market share in Latin America, Africa, Europe and Asia. We aspire to be the global leader in blasting explosives technology.