Numerical Modelling of Steep Slopes in Open Rock Quarries

Authors

  • Murat Yilmaz
     Department of Geological Engineering, Istanbul University, Istanbul
  • Altay Ertin
     Geo-Net Engineering & Consulting, Ertac Sk. 10/3, Atasehir-Istanbul
  • Selman Er
     Department of Geological Engineering, Istanbul University, Istanbul
  • Atiye Tugrul
     Department of Geological Engineering, Istanbul University, Istanbul

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1007/s12594-018-0841-x

Abstract

The key question regarding steep rock slopes along rock quarries is their stability because a rock slope failure can have critical results. In this study, the aim is to investigate the areas with potential risk for jointed karstic limestones in a rock quarry. First, to determine rock mass properties, scan-line surveys were performed, and the major orientations of discontinuities were analyzed using stereographic projection. Then, the physicomechanical properties of the slope-forming rock were determined in the laboratory, and geomechanical properties of the rock mass were determined using an empirical failure criterion. Finally, the quarry slope stability was assessed in accordance with numerical modelling. According to the results obtained, the numerical modelling of steep rock slopes can be efficiently evaluated by using finite element method. Beside this, the presence of joints intersecting the main discontinuity sets, the filling materials of discontinuities resulting from weathering of limestone and surface deposits, surcharge load due to mine waste dumped on the slopes and excavation blasting during construction of quarry area play a key role when modelling the steep rock slopes by using finite element method.

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Issue

Volume 91, Issue 2, February 2018 Pages (133-260)

Section

Research Articles

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Published

2018-02-01

How to Cite

Yilmaz, M., Ertin, A., Er, S., & Tugrul, A. (2018). Numerical Modelling of Steep Slopes in Open Rock Quarries. Journal of Geological Society of India, 91(2), 232–238. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12594-018-0841-x
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