Determination Of Classification Parameters For Clay - Bearing And Stratified Rock Mass

In underground mining today, safety and economical aspects demand a better understanding of the rock-mass conditions, particularly for design of underground mine openings excavated in weak and stratified rock mass. The rock mass classification systems, in essence, are empirical approaches utilized during preliminary design stage. These systems have been developed for specific purposes and rock mass types, therefore, direct utilization of the classification systems in their original form, for characterization of complex rock-mass conditions is not always possible. This is probably one of the main reasons why designers continue to originate new systems, or modify and extend the ones already existing. RMR and Q systems, for example, although widely used in mining and tunnelling, can not fully describe the specifications of the weak, stratified and flay bearing rock mass. Consequently, the engineering applications that would be carried out based on original RMR and Q ratings could be inadequate for making design decisions even during the preliminary design stage.