In this paper we propose a methodology to estimate the recovery percentage for each of the products, which can be obtained from ornamental granite quarry: block, semi-block, masonry-transverse stone, and smaller materials. This methodology ensures that quarry exploitation is exhaustive, thereby minimising the production of spoils and the consequent negative impact on the environment. The analysis is based on a detailed compilation of discontinuity data from the research fronts, which are then interpreted statistically and projected over the three weakness planes that are a particular feature of ornamental granite deposits. Using this information, and bearing in mind the minimum commercially viable sizes for each kind of granite, the corresponding recovery rates are calculated for each material in each plane. The results are then integrated using spatial techniques. This methodology was applied to a quarry in the operating phase in order to carry out an assessment of the recovery of the different granite products and compare results to actual data.
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