An application of uncertainty analysis to rock mass properties characterization at porphyry copper mines
Deterministic methods have been widely used for estimation of rock mass properties. It is, however, accepted that there are some sources which impose uncertainties on rock mass properties. Spatial variability is one of the uncertainty sources that must be considered in design stage. In this study, a...
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| Published in: | Bulletin of engineering geology and the environment 2020-09, Vol.79 (7), p.3721-3739 |
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| Main Authors: | , |
| Format: | Article |
| Language: | eng |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | Get full text |
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| Summary: | Deterministic methods have been widely used for estimation of rock mass properties. It is, however, accepted that there are some sources which impose uncertainties on rock mass properties. Spatial variability is one of the uncertainty sources that must be considered in design stage. In this study, a stochastic procedure is presented for characterization of rock mass properties at a porphyry copper mine in which the spatial variability is typically observed so that the uncertainty in rock mass properties plays a huge role in its quality. Intact rock data obtained during an enormous experimental campaign are statistically analyzed to ensure that they have been collected from a probabilistic society. Then, structural ratings of the rock masses and surface conditions of the structures have been mapped in the field. Finally, a particular stochastic code has been developed in matrix laboratory to evaluate the intrinsic uncertainty of obtained geomechanical properties at the depth of planned underground openings based on Hoek-Brown failure criterion. The results show that rock mass properties might not necessarily follow probability distribution functions of intact rock and joints properties. Moreover, gamma distribution function has been determined as the best fitted distribution function for rock mass uniaxial compressive strength. On the other hand, it was observed that rock mass tensile strength and its deformation modulus are lognormal variables. |
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| ISSN: | 1435-9529 1435-9537 |