Multidisciplinary evaluation of geological, geotechnical, geomechanical, and hydrogeological parameters for assessing slope stability in the Aures Mountain Quarry
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1
Mining Engineering Department, Mining Institute, Echahid Cheikh Larbi Tebessi University; Mines Laboratory, Echahid Cheikh Larbi Tebessi University, Algeria
2
Department of Earth Sciences, Institute of Architecture and Earth Sciences, Farhat Abbas University; Laboratory of Applied Research in Engineering Geology, Geotechnics, Water Sciences, and Environment, Farhat Abbas University, Algeria
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Department of Earth Sciences, Faculty of Sciences of Gafsa, University of Gafsa; International Association of Water Resources in the Southern Mediterranean Basin, Algeria
Submission date: 2024-04-26
Final revision date: 2024-05-10
Acceptance date: 2024-05-20
Publication date: 2024-06-30
Corresponding author
Mouerri Abdeldjalil
Mining Engineering Department, Mining Institute, Echahid Cheikh Larbi Tebessi University; Mines Laboratory, Echahid Cheikh Larbi Tebessi University, Algeria
Geomatics, Landmanagement and Landscape 2024;(2)
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ABSTRACT
The study delves into characterizing the mechanical parameters of the Tahar Louchene aggregate quarry unit in Ain Touta municipality, Batna province, Algeria. This investigation is crucial to address recurring instabilities commonly encountered in open-cast mines. Our approach adopts a comprehensive methodology integrating geotechnical, geomechanical, and numerical analyses, aiming to provide a thorough assessment of fractured rock mass behavior. Our methodology begins with detailed geological surveys aimed at optimal drilling site selection. Geomechanical analysis follows, focusing on fracturing and evaluating rock mass quality, complemented by geotechnical investigations featuring in-situ testing. To gather representative samples, we extracted eighteen cylindrical cores (102 mm × 204 mm) from various benches using a mechanical coring drill. These cores underwent rigorous physical characterization, geochemical analysis, and mechanical testing. Furthermore, 3D FEM numerical modeling was applied to comprehensively assess rock edge stability. The outcomes of our study unveil the presence of four distinct discontinuity sets within the primary formations, with particular emphasis on fault families of geological significance influencing deposit configuration. These fault structures provide valuable insights into stress history and tectonic evolution that directly impact the stability of the quarry. Moreover, our analysis identified various failure types, notably exacerbated by blasting practices that reduce safety factor values, highlighting the critical need for improved safety protocols. Our approach not only contributes to enhancing mining efficiency and productivity but also prioritizes the safety of equipment and personnel in open-cast mining operations across Algeria.