Abstract

KALHAN, E.  and  KINCAL, C.. Slope stability evaluation of Gneiss rock slopes using slope mass rating (SMR) and QSlope. J. S. Afr. Inst. Min. Metall. [online]. 2025, vol.125, n.8, pp.437-452. ISSN 2411-9717.  https://doi.org/10.17159/2411-9717/3606/2025.

One of the biggest problems in open pit mining is slope stability. The avoidance of slope stability problems depends on a comprehensive assessment of environmental and operational factors such as geology, climate, and mining activities. In the light of these considerations, slope geometries should be determined in accordance with engineering principles. In this research, the slope stability of rock slopes in a mine opened in a gneiss geological unit has been studied. Production activities were ceased in 2019 due to the slope movements in the eastern part of the quarry. In order to safely continue the production, field works were primarily carried out. To assess slope stability, detailed discontinuity surveys were carried out on bench faces. Subsequently, kinematic and numerical analyses were employed to identify geometries that are expected to maintain stability under the prevailing geological structures and environmental constraints. Engineering geological studies such as scanline measurements in steps and investigation of potential failure mechanisms by kinematic analysis technique were carried out. Small module reactor and Q-slope rock mass classification systems were used to evaluate slope stability. Based on these classification systems potential unstable rock slopes were identified and thematic maps were created using geographic information systems. The most suitable slope geometries are suggested for these slopes. In addition, the improvement methods suggested by the rock mass classification systems were proposed for these slopes.

Keywords : gneiss; Q-slope; slope mass rating (SMR); rock mass classification systems; slope stability; open pit mine.

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