A Novel Application of In Situ Block Size Distribution and Shape Classification in Dimension Stone Quarries

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Abstract The connection between rock mechanics and the world of mines and quarries is evident, as most primary resources needed by industry are concentrated in mineral deposits, often in rock masses. This can be seen at all levels, from the design phase to running the extraction process and providing protection to workers. Equally important is the optimization of the process, to enhance cost-effectiveness and reduce impact on the environment. A rock mass is characterized by blocks identified by discontinuities. It is, thus, useful to exploit the fragmented nature of the rock mass to optimize the excavation process. In the case of dimension stone quarries, the role of rock mechanics is even more evident as the precise and accurate knowledge of the features of the target rock mass is a fundamental requirement. The assessment of the block size distribution influences the feasibility of the operation and allows to identify a suitable and advantageous size for the extraction process. The orientation of the joints directly impacts the direction of excavation and the geometry of the fronts in terms of stability and productivity. The present work focuses on assessing the geometrical properties of a rock mass, namely block size and shape, aimed at optimizing the design and extraction process of a dimension stone quarry. For this purpose, a novel application of the In situ Block Size Distribution (IBSD) and shape distribution approach to dimension stones quarries is discussed. A robust statistical analysis of the rock mass geometric properties is coupled with the IBSD approach to block size and a new shape classification system. A set of synthetic data will then be employed to present a general case study, while a suitable case study is presented, describing the context of a real marble quarry (Lorgino quarry, Crevoladossola, Piemonte, Northern Italy) where the discussed approach could yield positive results.

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