Shaping the Next Generation of Blasting Engineers: Bridging the Gap Between Blasting Science and Engineering Practice

Speaker

Professor Italo Onederra

Abstract

Developing the next generation of blasting specialists requires sustained applied R&D that integrates blasting science, mechanistic models, operational data and AI into validated decision-support systems. These systems will augment engineering judgement, enabling specialists to make faster, more reliable and mine-specific decisions that improve safety, productivity and sustainability across the mining value chain.

Bio

Professor Italo Onederra serves as the Director of the Centre for Future Autonomous Systems and Technologies (FAST) at the School of Mechanical and Mining Engineering. He leads a research group focused on improving mineral extraction methods with reduced environmental impact through advanced preconditioning and fragmentation techniques. Recognised internationally as a specialist in explosives and blasting engineering technology, Italo holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Civil) with honours from the University of Melbourne, and a Master of Engineering Science and PhD from The University of Queensland. With over 25 years of R&D experience and consulting work in Australia, South America, Africa, and Europe, Italo has demonstrated leadership and impact in both research and industry. He has published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals and conferences, contributed to technical reports and books, and co-invented novel nitrogen oxide-free explosives based on hydrogen peroxide. Italo is also known for developing fragmentation modelling techniques, which have been incorporated into commercial software used globally by industry and academia, as well as pioneering the use of physics engines in blast movement modelling to improve ore control and maximise recovery.