journal article·2024-07-02Open access

The Laser Scanner Technique: A Tool for Determining Shear Strength Parameters of Rock Mass Discontinuities

Margherita Zimbardo, Alessandra Nocilla, Anna Scotto di Santolo

Applied Sciences· Volume 14· Issue 13

Abstract

When evaluating the shear strength of rock mass discontinuities, certain challenges arise due to the difficulty in quantifying the roughness characteristics of surfaces and the strength of asperities. Recent research has focused on enhancing techniques for assessing these characteristics and exploring the application of laser scanning to aid in evaluating discontinuity features. The analysis of reflectivity values (I) obtained through a laser scanner survey presents an efficient method for assessing mechanical characteristics, such as joint compressive strength (JCS). Reflectivity measurements demonstrate correlations with Schmidt hammer rebound values (r). The laser scanner technique would enable the measurement of JCS without the direct application of the Schmidt hammer on rocks in areas where rebound values (r) measurements are unavailable. The use of a laser scanner allows for the acquisition of high-precision geometrical information concerning the 3D roughness and anisotropy of rock surfaces. In this study, an innovative technique was introduced that utilizes laser scanner data from six previous experimental surveys conducted on rock formations in Southern Italy. This technique facilitates the evaluation of roughness profiles, considering potential variations along kinematically admissible sliding directions, allowing for the estimation of the Joint Roughness Coefficient (JRC). This new methodology aids in evaluating the parameters of Barton’s equation to determine the strength characteristics of rock mass discontinuities.
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Research context

OpenAlex topics: Rock Mechanics and Modeling · Tunneling and Rock Mechanics · Landslides and related hazards

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science, Telematic University Pegaso, 80143 Napoli, Italy

Department Civil, Environmental, Architectural Engineering and Mathematics (DICATAM), University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy

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