Abstract:
A probabilistic rock slope analysis is introduced in this study. The probabilistic rock slope analysis was developed by combining the structural model of dip angle and dip direction of rock mass, the deterministic slope analysis and kinematic slope analysis. The measure of safety is expressed in terms of the probability of failure. Input to the model consists of rock structure realization maps generated from Sequential Gaussian Simulation (SGS), the slope geometry and rock strength properties. The model was applied to the rock slope at Khaowong limestone quarry at Saraburi province. The results of kinematic and deterministic slope analysis indicate the potential of plane failure and toppling failure in the studied area. The probabilistic rock slope analysis indicates potential plane failure in the northern area of the pitwall with maximum probability of failure of 22%. Recommendations for rock slope stabilization were also made by reducing the slope angle and bench height. In conclusion, the proposed method provides a powerful tool for drawing a detailed and realistic picture of rock slope stability condition under 3 slope failure modes which are plane failure, wedge failure and toppling failure. This information will benefit the mine planning in relation to slope stability prevention program.