005 0424 - 08 Manual-McClean Core Logging Manual Ver.0 PDF

FIELD PROCEDURES MANUAL
COLLECTION OF
GEOTECHNICAL CORE LOGGING DATA
AREVA MCCLEAN LAKE PROGRAM
April 2008
Doc No. 005 Ver. 0
08-1362-0491
April 2008 -i- Doc No. Ver. 0
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION PAGE
1.0 INTRODUCTION.................................................................................. 1
2.0 GEOTECHNICAL CORE LOGGING.................................................... 1
2.1 Handling Radioactive Core ............................................................... 1
2.2 Rock Mass Classification.................................................................. 2
2.3 Core Logging Equipment .................................................................. 4
2.4 Acquire Logging Interface................................................................. 4
2.5 General Drillhole Data (Collar Form) ................................................ 5
2.6 Geotechnical Data Collection (Core Recovery Form)....................... 6
2.6.1 Geotechnical Interval (Depth) ............................................. 6
2.6.2 Total Core Recovery (TCR) ................................................ 7
2.6.3 Rock Quality Designation (RQD) ........................................ 8
2.6.4 Rock Type......................................................................... 10
2.6.5 Weathering/Alteration Index ............................................. 10
2.6.6 Joint Set Number (Jn)....................................................... 11
2.6.7 Fault and Broken Core Zones........................................... 11
2.6.8 Comments ........................................................................ 12
2.6.9 Strength Condition ............................................................ 12
2.7 Fracture Data Collection (Feature Table Form).............................. 13
2.7.1 Fracture Type ................................................................... 14
2.7.2 Fracture Shape and Roughness....................................... 15
2.7.3 Joint Parameters (Q System) ........................................... 15
2.7.4 Joint Condition Rating....................................................... 17
2.8 Core Photography........................................................................... 17
2.8.1 In the Core Shack ............................................................. 18
2.8.2 At the Drill Rig................................................................... 20
2.8.3 File Naming....................................................................... 21
2.9 Sample Collection........................................................................... 21
REFERENCES ................................................................................................... 23
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 2.1 Collar Entry Form 5
Figure 2.2 Core Recovery Entry Form 6
Figure 2.3 Example of RQD Calculation 9
Figure 2.4 Major Rock Types at McClean Lake (left to right): Sandstone, Conglomerate,
Gneiss and Mineralized ore. 10
Figure 2.5 Examples of Faults/Broken Core 12
Figure 2.6 Fracture Table Entry Form 13
Figure 2.7 Examples of Fracture Shape and Roughness 16
Figure 2.8 Flow Chart to Determine Joint Roughness, Jr 24
Figure 2.9 Flow Chart to Determine Joint Alteration, Ja 25
Figure 2.10 Flow Chart to Determine Joint Condition, Jcon 26
Figure 2.11 Examples of Color Chart to be Included in Core Photographs 18
Golder Associates
08-1362-0491
April 2008 - ii - Doc No. Ver. 0
Figure 2.13 Example of a Wet Core Photograph (nb: a whiteboard should be used in
addition to what is shown) 20
Figure 2.14 Example of a Split Tube Photograph (Photo A) 21
LIST OF APPENDICES
Appendix I Geotechnical Core Logging Parameters
Golder Associates
08-1362-0491
April 2008 -1- Doc No. Ver. 0
1.0 INTRODUCTION
This document provides a description of procedures for the collection of geotechnical

data from drill core. The procedures described are designed to obtain the critical
characteristics of a rock mass which are likely to affect design of any potential
underground workings. Many of the procedures outlined in this document are specific to
the work at the McClean Lake site.
2.0 GEOTECHNICAL CORE LOGGING
2.1 Handling Radioactive Core
Uranium ore is being mined at the McClean Lake project. Uranium is a radioactive
substance that can cause irreversible health problems if exposure is not mitigated
properly. Not all of the core at McClean Lake will be radioactive, but a high level of care
must be taken at all times to ensure that radiation exposure which exceeds health limits
does occur. This can easily be achieved by taking simple precautions. Every core logger
working at McClean Lake will have read some background material on radiation as part
of the required Health and Safety reading. All loggers must take part in site-specific
training which will outline procedures to measure and avoid radiation exposure over and
above those that are outlined in this manual.
The following guidelines provide general methods to reduce radiation exposure and allow
core loggers to handle and work with radioactive materials safely:
1. Make sure that this work instruction is prominently displayed in the core logging
facility.
2. When working with radioactive materials, safety glasses, work gloves, lead aprons
and coveralls should be utilized. Gloves and coveralls should be replaced or
washed regularly in an appropriate facility.
3. Decontamination is the removal of radioactive material from a surface. Washing

hands with soap and water is mandatory after the handling of radioactive cores.
Always carefully wash your hands prior to eating since the most significant
risk from logging of uranium ore is the ingestion of slow moving alpha
particles that are unable to penetrate clothing and skin..
4. No eating, drinking or smoking is permitted when handling or working near

radioactive material. This is to prevent ingestion of radioactive materials.
Golder Associates
08-1362-0491
5. Contaminated plywood from the core logging table whose radioactivity cannot be
reduced to an acceptable level will need to be replaced and disposed off as per
Arevas on-site procedures.
6. Avoid handling radioactive materials with cuts and scrapes on your skin. Wearing
gloves and coveralls will offer some protection.
7. Ensure that there is proper ventilation in the core logging facility. This is to avoid
inhalation of radioactive materials (radon gas and dust). Taking seasonal conditions
into account, always take steps to maximize ventilation (i.e. by opening doors and
windows or turning on exhaust fans to circulate the air). Good ventilation is able to
achieve radon levels in core shacks that meet guidelines for homes.
8. Distance is the best way to avoid radioactivity. Store any radioactive core well
away from the main camp area (i.e. >30 metres away) and ensure that the core
storage area is well posted with appropriate signs to indicate the presence of
radioactive material.
9. Mineralized drill core should only be cut with a rock saw at a registered mine site.
Arrangements will be made by the appropriate Areva staff member if such a
procedure is required. During and for a designated time after the splitting of this
core the Long Lived Radioactive Dust (LLRD) will be measured as per the relevant
Areva procedure.
10. Do not move radioactive core unless in core boxes secured with lids.
11. Permanent storage of radioactive material is subject to regulatory requirements.

Specifically, gamma radiation levels (measured at 1 metre from surface) for a
storage area should be reduced to 100 R/hr and in no instance will the level be
allowed to exceed 250 R/hr.
12. Follow the policy and all regulations with regard to the shipment of radioactive
materials. Abide by regulations and policies enforced by the Canadian Nuclear
Safety Commission (CNSC) and Transport Canada regarding the conveyance of
radioactive material.
2.2 Rock Mass Classification
A rock mass is a combination of intact blocks fitted together into one blocky mass. The
overall rock mass strength and behavior is controlled by the intact rock material in
combination with the frequency and characteristics of the fractures and other planes of
weakness.
Golder Associates
08-1362-0491
Geotechnical data collected from drill core are used to rate the rock mass according to its
quality. Rock mass classification systems provide a basis for this assessment, and
permit comparison with rock mass conditions encountered at other mines and different
areas of the same mine. The classification systems have been refined over the years to
include a large database of rock excavations and ground conditions.
The two rock mass classification systems most widely used in the mining industry are the
Norwegian Geotechnical Institute (NGI) Q system (Q) and CSIR Rock Mass Rating
(RMR76) system (1976). Other systems include Laubscher's MRMR system, which has
similarities in the basic data collection procedures to the RMR system. Although the
systems differ, they rely on similar data in order to classify rock mass strength.
The description of a rock mass for engineering purposes requires assessment of the
characteristics of both the rock material and the fractures that intersect it (bedding planes,
joints, foliation and cleavage). Rock material in its fresh, unweathered state can vary in
strength from relatively soft (e.g., chalks, marls, claystones) to extremely hard
(e.g., diabase, hornfels, quartzite). The strength along fractures can also vary
significantly depending on the fracture condition.
The format for describing the geotechnical characteristics of a rock mass is based on
international standard practice, and is structured to provide all data necessary for the rock
mass classification schemes. At McClean Lake the following geotechnical index
parameters are collected from rock cores for a general assessment of rock mass quality:
Logging interval depth;

Rock condition (weathering/alteration);
Total Core recovery (TCR);
Rock Quality Designation (RQD);
Strength of intact material (rock or soil hardness) (ISRM Strength);
Joint Set Number (Jn); and,
Rock Type.
Additionally, detailed geotechnical data pertaining to each fracture (or groups of similar
fractures where the rock is heavily fractured) observed in the core will be collected,
including:
Fracture type;
Joint surface description (Roughness, Shape, Infill Type and Thickness);
Joint alteration and roughness parameters (Q Systems) of fractures (Ja, Jr);
Alpha Angle with respect to core axis; and,
Joint Condition Rating (JCR) (RMR76).
Golder Associates
08-1362-0491
These core logging parameters are described in detail in the following sections.
2.3 Core Logging Equipment
The following list presents the field equipment used to carry out geotechnical data
collection from drill core:
Laptop computer with geotechnical logging database;

Tape measure (metric);
Lumber crayons or chalk (various colours);
Permanent markers (black and red);
Contour gauge for joint profiles - optional;
Geologists rock hammer;
Knife and/or tool for scratching rock;
Protractor (carpenters);
Spray bottle for wetting core;
Labels and sample tracking templates for properly submitting core samples;
Duct tape, bubble wrap, and stretch (SARAN) wrap for collecting core samples;
Paraffin wax, hot plate and baking tray for waxing the ends of the wrapped core
samples;
Digital Camera (minimum 5Mpixel);
Dry Erase Board (8.5x11) with dry erase markers; and
Kodak Colour chart.
2.4 Acquire Logging Interface
At McClean Lake, core logging data will be input directly into a database using the
software acQuire. The logging interface consists of four input forms (tabs):
Import/Export Used only to export data once logging of a drillhole is complete.
Collar Orientation, location, setup of the drill hole. Only the primary keys must be
entered, most data for this form is NOT entered by the core logger.
Core Recovery Interval/run information for assessing rock mass quality.
Feature Table Detailed geotechnical information for each individual structure in an

interval/run.
Golder Associates
08-1362-0491
2.5 General Drillhole Data (Collar Form)
General data about the drillhole is recorded in the Collar form (see Figure 2.1) of the
logging database. The core logger must enter the primary key ONLY, which in this case
is the Hole ID.
Other information in the form should be entered only if known by the logger.
Figure 2.1 Collar Entry Form
Golder Associates
08-1362-0491
2.6 Geotechnical Data Collection (Core Recovery Form)
Data describing the strength, characteristics and recovery of an interval or run is recorded
in the Core Recovery form of the logging database. The following sections describe in
detail the information recorded in this form for each run or geotechnical interval.
Figure 2.2 Core Recovery Entry Form
2.6.1 Geotechnical Interval (Depth)
Geotechnical intervals (domains) should be chosen based on the lithology and strength
condition of the core and are a minimum of 0.5 metres and a maximum of 3 metres in
length. In rock of relatively homogeneous geological and geotechnical character, an
interval length of 3 metres should be used. Any major change in lithology or
geotechnical character (e.g., strength, fracture frequency, and/or recovery) should be
identified as a geotechnical boundary. For example, if a zone greater than 0.5 meter in
Golder Associates
08-1362-0491
length of markedly different geotechnical character relative to the adjacent core is

intersected (e.g., a gouge filled fault zone in otherwise competent rock), it should be
logged as a separate geotechnical interval. If such a geotechnical zone occurs, but is less
than 0.5m, it should be recorded in the Feature Table form.
The recorded depth is the length along the core axis from the collar of hole to the
beginning (From) to the end (To) of the logged interval. Example: An interval from
15.7 metres to 18.7 metres would be recorded as:
From: 15.7 metres ... To: 18.7 metres
The drillers depths (those marked on the run blocks) will be used.
Recording the depth at each meter on the core with black, permanent marker is a good
way of keeping track of depths. It also makes core photographs easier to interpret.
It is important that the geotechnical engineer on site confirms the reference point used by
the driller to establish the depths recorded on core run blocks. Depths should be
referenced to ground surface. Quite often, drillers will use the drill floor, top of casing,
or top of drill head before hand and appropriate stick up measured and recorded for
reference. In some cases, it has been discovered that the dayshift and nightshift have
used different reference points. This should be confirmed with the drillers on each shift
on a drill rig prior to the start of drilling.
2.6.2 Total Core Recovery (TCR)
Total Core Recovery (TCR) records the total amount of core recovered over the
measured length drilled for each core run (or geotechnical interval when logging with
televiewer images). Measure core recovery to the nearest centimetre and record the value
in the form field. The length of broken core or gouge must be estimated as its true length
in the ground (NOT as it appears spread out in the core box) and is included in the total
recovery length.
Core losses are an important indication of potentially poor geotechnical conditions, since
they most commonly occur in weak or highly fractured zones which may be important for
determining rock mass properties. Rubble or slough which has fallen into the drill hole
and is recovered at the top of a core lift is not counted as recovered core and should be
discarded or clearly labelled to avoid subsequent misclassification.
It is not uncommon for some core to slip through the core lifter and to be dropped out of
its core tube. This problem frequently indicates a worn or unsuitable core lifter which
Golder Associates
08-1362-0491
should be replaced. Core should be represented on the log at the location it occupied in
the ground. This requires some interpretation when rock cored during one run is dropped
and is recovered during a subsequent run. Core recoveries should not exceed 100% on
any logged interval. Core which was drilled in a previous run can often be identified by
marks from the drilling or the core lifter.
2.6.3 Rock Quality Designation (RQD)
The RQD is a quantitative index of rock quality used in both Q and RMR calculations.
RQD is based on the measured length of hard, sound pieces of core recovered at full
cylindrical diameter, and measuring at least 10 cm in length. Lengths shorter than 10 cm
are ignored, as shown in Figure 2.3. RQD is determined from the following expression:
the sum of the lengths of core in pieces equal to or longer than 10 cm

RQD (%) = 100 x
length of core run
It is important to distinguish between mechanical, drill induced breaks and natural breaks
found in the core. A mechanical break caused by handling should not adversely affect
the RQD index, which is a measure of the in-situ rock quality. The mechanical broken
core segments should be approximated into a solid unit of core in order to arrive at a
reliable RQD value. Naturally occurring fractures must be identified in order to measure
RQD, and can be marked with a coloured crayon to aid in the process (optional).
Golder Associates
08-1362-0491
Figure 2.3 Example of RQD Calculation
When logging it is sometimes difficult to distinguish natural fractures from mechanical

breaks. If the origin of the fracture is uncertain, then it is considered to be a natural break
in order to provide conservative values for the RQD and fracture logs. Clean, fresh,
irregular surfaces that are oriented at close to 90 to the core axis that can be rejoined
with only a hair-line separation are typically drill-induced. Surfaces that are stained,
weathered, contain infilling or coatings, occur at some angle other than perpendicular to
the core axis, or cannot be rejoined cleanly should be counted as natural fractures. If in
doubt, consider it to be a natural fracture.
At McClean Lake, fractures marked with a red X by the drill helper are known
mechanical breaks caused by handling the core or breaking it to fit in core boxes. This
convention should be confirmed with the drill helper prior to drilling.
One special case that may be encountered in measuring RQD is a single fracture
sub-parallel to the core axis (within approx. 10 degrees). Sound core with a single
sub-parallel fracture is counted as intact rock and assigned an RQD of 100%. This
method is used to avoid biasing the RQD measurement with a single fracture parallel to
the drillhole.
RQD is used in rock mass quality systems only for sound core and should generally not
considered valid for very poorly indurated materials such as clays or weak claystones.
Golder Associates
08-1362-0491
April 2008 - 10 - Doc No. Ver. 0
However, RQD does provide some indication of rock behaviour even for extremely
weak, even soil-like, materials. As a result RQD should be recorded for all intervals but
the strength (i.e., G, S1-S6, R0-R6 etc) should be carefully recorded in order that RMR
and Q calculations undertaken later can identify intervals where RQD is invalid.
2.6.4 Rock Type
The rock type is recorded in the logging database using its name selected from the drop
down list. Uniform application of nomenclature is usually more critical than absolute
accuracy of that nomenclature. There are four major rock types at McClean Lake
namely: sandstone, conglomerate, gneiss and mineralized ore. The mineralized ore is
found at an uncomformity between the upper sedimentary rocks (the sandstones and
conglomerates) and lower gneisses. At McClean Lake it is anticipated that sandstone
will be encountered over the great majority of the hole.
Figure 2.4 Major Rock Types at McClean Lake (left to right): Sandstone,
Conglomerate, Gneiss and Mineralized ore.
Variations in colour, grain size and alteration are common in all rock types.
2.6.5 Weathering/Alteration Index
Record the degree of weathering using the system described in Table I-2. This provides a
qualitative measure of the degree of weathering of the original rock material. As the hole
depth increases the degree of weathering will decrease and alteration will usually begin
to have an increasing influence on the rock strength. However, since the unconformity
between sandstone and other rock types (basement) was a paleosurface, both weathering
Golder Associates
08-1362-0491
and alteration may be present at the top of the basement rocks and may also persist
deeper into the basement rocks.
2.6.6 Joint Set Number (Jn)
A joint set is a series of systematically occurring joints of which the orientation and
geotechnical characteristics are broadly the same. Observe the various joint sets in the
geotechnical interval, and record a value from Table I-5. Examples: One set corresponds
to one distinct fracture orientation, such as bedding or a foliation. Two sets indicate that
two distinct fracture orientations are present and a Jn value of four would be assigned.
The Jn value for rubble and/or gouge zones should be recorded as 20.
2.6.7 Fault and Broken Core Zones
Fault and broken core zones should be logged and recorded as separate geotechnical
intervals when exceeding 0.5 m in length. In cases where such zones are less than 0.5 m
in length, or in order to record an orientation for thicker faults which qualify as
geotechnical intervals, their presence should also be recorded as a fracture in Feature
Table form.
Broken core zones are characterized by pieces that do not form full circumferential
segments (e.g., not disks). Broken core generally consists of angular fragments.
Faults are a fracture or zone along which there has been recognizable displacement.
The walls are often polished or slickensided resulting from the shear displacement.
Frequently, rock on both sides of the fault is shattered and altered or weathered,
resulting in fillings such as crushed/pulverized rock (breccia) and powder (gouge).
Fault width may range from millimetres to hundreds of metres. In drill core, fault
zones often have less then 100% recovery.
Recording the presence of these zones does not preclude recording the engineering
parameters in the log as well. In order to calculate RMR and Q, values of Jr, Ja, JCR and
rock strength must be estimated, EVEN IF INDIVIDUAL FRACTURES CANNOT BE
IDENTIFIED. This can be done by looking at the surfaces of rock fragments within the
broken core/fault zone.
Golder Associates
08-1362-0491
Large Scale Fault (logged as geotechnical intervals divided only by

fault boundary and drillers blocks)
Broken Core (near 100% recovery)

Small Scale Fault (logged as fracture)
Figure 2.5 Examples of Faults/Broken Core
2.6.8 Comments
Any important or distinguishing geotechnical / geological characteristics not recorded in

the geotechnical log should be included in the comments. This will include any
adjectives required to describe distinguishing features such as colour, grain size, fabric
(schistose, slatey, gneissic, etc.), major minerals, descriptions of particularly weak zones
and comments regarding overall competency of the core.
It is important to note that comments are not used in rock mass classification systems and
are often not used once entered into the main logging database. Important information
contained in the comments field should be represented in the main fields in the
geotechnical log and should not change the overall interpretation of the rock quality.
2.6.9 Strength Condition
Strength Index (Field Estimate of Intact Rock or Soil Strength)
The strength of the pieces of intact core in the geotechnical interval can be estimated
using Table I-1. A pocket knife and rock hammer are required for the test, which must be
performed for each interval. This observational approach provides a cost-effective
estimate of intact rock strength, provided that strengths are calibrated with laboratory
Golder Associates
08-1362-0491
testing. If a variation in rock strength is present in the geotechnical interval (e.g., 1 cm of

fault gouge), estimate the average rock strength of the interval taking into account the
relative amounts of different material present in the interval.
2.7 Fracture Data Collection (Feature Table Form)
At McClean Lake, each fracture is logged individually, NOT as joint sets. When logging
in the core shack, televiewer images will be used to identify and orient fractures. When
logging at the drill rig, fractures will be identified by the geotechnical engineer and an
Alpha angle (dip with respect to the core axis) will be recorded. The following sections
describe in detail the information recorded for each fracture.
Figure 2.6 Fracture Table Entry Form
Golder Associates
08-1362-0491
2.7.1 Fracture Type
Record the types of fractures present in the core interval, using the definitions and
abbreviations shown below:
Broken Core (BC): A zone of broken, angular rock with no soft material or
gouge present. Usually has near 100% recovery.
Bedding (BD): A discontinuity associated with sedimentary processes

(e.g., mud seam in sandstone).
Contact - Closed (CON): A boundary between two lithologies where there is no
open fracture.
Contact - Open (CONO): An open fracture on the boundary of two lithologies.
Fault (FLT): A major structural feature characterized by broken core

or breccia, clay, silt, or sand gouge, rotated clasts or
fragments, and often tectonic fabric, such as shearing.
There may or may not be evidence of displacement,
depending on the nature of the fault. The walls are often
polished or slickensided. Frequently, rock on both sides
of the fault is shattered and altered or weathered. Fault
width may vary from millimetres to hundreds of metres
(fault zones greater than 0.5 m should also be logged
as separate geotechnical intervals). Care must be taken
in assigning the name fault. In some cases, joint
discontinuities containing sandy, silty, or clay coatings,
may be incorrectly classified as fault. In such cases,
these should be classified as joint discontinuities, with
the appropriate surface character descriptors.
Foliation (FOL): A preferential direction of structural weakness in the
rock due to alignment of weak minerals, caused by
metamorphism.
Joint (JN): A discontinuity with no evidence of previous movement.
Vein - Open (VNO): An open discontinuity infilled by another mineral

(e.g., quartz).
Golder Associates
08-1362-0491
2.7.2 Fracture Shape and Roughness
Shape describes the small scale surface shape of the joint at the scale of the rock core:
Planar
Undulating
Stepped
Curved
Irregular
Roughness describes the small scale surface roughness or feel of the joint at the scale
of the rock core:
Slickensided or Polished
Smooth
Slightly Rough
Rough
Very Rough
Examples of various discontinuity shapes and roughness are shown on Figure 2.7.
2.7.3 Joint Parameters (Q System)
The condition for each fracture is characterized using the approach outlined for the
Q system. The individual Q parameter values are obtained from Table I-4 and include:
Fracture Roughness (Jr)

Describes the small scale geometry of the joint surface. A flow-chart is provided in
Figure 2.8 (at the end of this manual) as an aid in determining fracture roughness.
Fracture Alteration (Ja)

This rating distinguishes between fractures which are filled with alteration minerals
such as clay, and those which are not. Filled fractures lower the rock mass strength,
thereby reducing stability of mining excavations. A flow-chart is provided in
Figure 2.9 (at the end of this manual) as an aid in determining fracture alteration.
Golder Associates
08-1362-0491
Planar Smooth Planar Polished Planar Slickensided
Planar Rough Planar Very Rough

Undulating Slickensided
Undulating Rough Undulating Smooth Stepped Rough
Curved Rough Mechanical Break
Figure 2.7 Examples of Fracture Shape and Roughness
Golder Associates
08-1362-0491
2.7.4 Joint Condition Rating
The CSIR Rock Mass Rating 1976 (RMR76) includes a general description of the
engineering parameters of the discontinuities observed in a core run. It provides a good
relative estimate of the impact of the discontinuities on the engineering characteristics of
the rock mass. Table I-3 outlines general fracture conditions and corresponding joint
condition ratings (JCR) to be recorded. A flow-chart is provided in Figure 2.10 (at the
end of this manual) as an aid in determining the joint condition rating.
2.8 Core Photography
Core photography provides a permanent record which can be easily referred to, and a
visual backup to the geological and geotechnical data collected during core logging.
Core photography should be undertaken as part of all exploration and geotechnical
drilling programs. The cost of core photography is minimal relative to the cost of
diamond drilling. As a minimum, core should be photographed wet, although ideally
core should be photographed both wet, and dry. Core photographs should be taken
soon after the core is boxed, or ideally, at the drill rig before it is boxed and again when
boxed in a more controlled environment as described in the following.
Core photographs should always be taken indoors, sometimes with the flash and within a
room which has a light coloured (preferably white) ceiling for the best backlit conditions.
If possible, core photographs should always be taken from the same relative position each
photograph.
If taking photos indoors is not possible, at a minimum, the photographs should not be
taken under direct sunlight as core photographs taken outdoors tend to have variable
lighting conditions, and at times, the colour can be washed out. The best outdoor
alternative is to take the core photographs under a white awning tent to filter out the
direct sunlight and create good backlit conditions.
To create a scale against which colour of the core can be consistently assessed, always
include a standard Kodak colour chart within the photograph. The colour chart is best
positioned in a corner of the dry erase board. An example of a color chart is included as
Figure 2.11 below.
Golder Associates
08-1362-0491
Figure 2.11 Examples of Color Chart to be Included in Core Photographs
2.8.1 In the Core Shack
Figures 2.12 and 2.13 are examples of dry and wet core photos. The following procedure
should be used for photographing core in the core shack:
Use a dry erase board to label the Hole Name, date the picture is being taken, what
depths are being photographed (From and To) and the person(s) taking the
photograph. This will be updated for every core photograph.
Label core boxes in black, permanent marker with the Hole Name, Box Number and
From and To Depth (for each core box). Ensure writing is large enough to be visible
in photographs.
If the core has been poorly placed in the core box, ensure that the core has been
reasonably rearranged and put together so that obvious structure will be evident in the
photographs. If it happens repeatedly that the core is poorly placed in the core box,
the drillers should be informed of the proper placement of the core into the core
boxes.
Place a tape measure or meter stick along one of the core boxes.
Use the stepladder to stand high enough to point directly at the center of the core
boxes while fitting the width of the core boxes in the LCD screen. The photograph
should be taken orthographically to the core. DO NOT use the viewfinder when
standing on the ladder.
Golder Associates
08-1362-0491
Full spectrum photograph specific lighting is currently in use at the McClean Lake
core shack. This lighting makes using a flash unnecessary. If this lighting is not in
use at McClean, contact the Areva site supply person and request the blue coated
light bulbs.
Center the image vertically while remaining square to all four corners of the boxes.
Depress the shutter half way until the green light comes on indicating proper focus.
Depress the shutter completely while holding the camera as still as possible. Check
photo to ensure it is clear and writing is visible.
Repeat the procedure for BOTH wet and dry core.
At the beginning of each core logging program at McClean Lake, the core logger
should review the first photographs he or she has taken to ensure that the best quality
photograph possible is being taken and, if not, adjust the procedure accordingly. For
a further check, the core logger should send his initial photographs to the office to be
viewed objectively.
Figure 2.12 Example of a Dry Core Photograph (nb: a whiteboard should be used
in addition to what is shown)
Golder Associates
08-1362-0491
Figure 2.13 Example of a Wet Core Photograph (nb: a whiteboard should be used
in addition to what is shown)
2.8.2 At the Drill Rig
When logging at the drill rig, photos should be taken both in the split tube and in the core
box. For photos taken in the core box, the same procedure as used in the core shack can
be applied. Figure 2.14 shows an example of a split tube photo. For photos taken in the
split tube the following procedure should be used:
Place a wooden depth marker at each end of the split tube.
Lay a tape measure or meter stick on the v-rail behind the split tube.
Place an index card, labelled with the hole number, at one meter intervals.
Using the same settings as the core shack, photograph the core in one meter sections.
The door should be closed at this time to maintain consistent lighting.
Golder Associates
08-1362-0491
Figure 2.14 Example of a Split Tube Photograph (Photo A)
2.8.3 File Naming
When using a digital camera, photos should be downloaded, renamed and backed up
frequently. The following convention should be used for naming core box photos:
MGT08-01_000.00-003.00 m_dry.jpg
The preceding zeros will allow the files to sort correctly within folders.
The following convention should be used for naming split tube photos:
MGT08-01_000.00-003.00 m_A.jpg
The second tube will then be labelled B, and the third C.
2.9 Sample Collection
Rock core samples will be collected for unconfined compressive strength (UCS), direct
shear, and triaxial testing. Samples should be a minimum 2.5 times the core diameter in
length and free of any structural defects; however at McClean Lake sample length may
vary and will be defined by the Project Manager. The number and type of samples
collected for each drillhole will be specified by the project manager. A sample record
sheet should be maintained, which lists relevant information for each sample, such as:
borehole, depth interval, rock type, sample length, date sampled, and proposed testing.
Golder Associates
08-1362-0491
Samples should be labelled directly on the core with black permanent marker with the
following information:
Hole ID Rock Type

Down-hole
Direction
Depth Test Type
Sample
Date Sampled
Length
In some cases it may not be possible to write directly onto the core. In these
instances, a sheet of water proof paper from a field notebook can be used to record
the relevant information, and the paper sheet included with the core sample.
Samples should be wrapped in plastic stretch wrap to preserve the natural moisture
content, then wrapped in duct tape, bubble wrap, and another layer of duct tape. All
of the above information should be recorded again on the outside layer of duct tape in
permanent marker and also in the logging database.
Marker blocks indicating the sample from and to depths and purpose should be
placed in the core box where the sample was removed. The marker block should be
large enough so that the sample number and other relevant information can be
recorded and placed in the core box for future reference.
Samples should not be frozen.
Samples require security clearance requested by the on-site Golder representative to

the appropriate mine site contact. The samples will be tested for radioactivity and
shipped according to the measured radioactivity level.
EMS/RQ/GRB/RB/lw
O:\Final\2008\1362\08-1362-0491\Doc 005 0424_08 Manual-McClean Core Logging Manual Ver.0.doc
Golder Associates
08-1362-0491
REFERENCES
Barton, N., Lien, R., and Lunde, J., 1974, Engineering classification of rock masses for
the design of tunnel support. Rock Mechanics, 6, (4), pp. 189-236.
Bates, L., and Jackson, J., 1984, Dictionary of Geological Terms, Third Edition, The
American Geological Institute.
Bieniawski, 1989, Engineering Rock Mass Classifications, John Wiley & Sons.
Brown, 1981, Rock Characterisation Testing and Monitoring: ISRM Suggested

Methods, International Society for Rock Mechanics.
Deere, D., and Deere, D., 1989, Rock Quality Designation (RQD) after twenty years,
Rocky Mountain Consultants Inc., Report to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers,
Hack, R., 1996, Slope Stability Probability Classification, International Institute for
Aerospace Survey and Earth Sciences.
Hutchinson and Diederichs, 1995, Cable Bolting Handbook.
International Society for Rock Mechanics (ISRM), 1978, Commission on Standardisation

of Laboratory and Field Tests, Suggested Methods For The Quantitative
Description of Rock Masses, in: Int. J Rock Mech. Min. Sci. & Geomech. Abstr.
Vol. 15. pp. 319-368
Golder Associates
REVISION DATE: April 23, 2008 BY: GWEBB FILE:O:\Active\_2008\1362\08-1362-0491 McClean Lake\2000 - Geotech\Core Logging Manual\Figures
Infilled ?
NO
THEN selection
of Jr is controlled
YES
by the frictional
Jr = 1.0
properties of the
discontinuity
surface
Slickensided or Smooth or Rough or Slickensided or Smooth or Rough or

Discontinuous
polished slightly rough very rough polished slightly rough very rough
OR Healed
AND Planar AND Planar AND Planar AND Undulating AND Undulating AND Undulating
Jr = 4.0
Jr = 0.5 Jr = 1.0 Jr = 1.5 Jr = 1.5 Jr = 2.0 Jr = 3.0
(and Ja = 0.75)
PROJECT
AREVA
MCCLEAN LAKE CORE LOGGING MANUAL
NORTHERN SASKATCHEWAN
TITLE
FLOW CHART TO DETERMINE

JOINT ROUGNESS, Jr
PROJECT No. 08-1362-0491 FILE No. ----
DESIGN ES 22APR08 SCALE NTS REV.
CADD GTW 22APR08
CHECK
REVIEW
--
FIGURE 2.8
Infilled ?
NO
Is the infilling clay ? Coating or Stained?

NO NO
Sandy, clay-free
What type of clay ? disintegrated or crushed rock Clean or altered ? What type of coating?
Sand, silt or sandy -,

Stiff < 5mm Ja = 6 < 5mm thickness; Ja = 4 Tightly healed; Ja = 0.75
silty-clay < 1mm; Ja = 3
Soft < 5mm Ja = 8 > 5mm thickness; Ja = 5 Staining only; Ja = 1
Swelling < 5mm Ja = 12 Slightly altered; Ja = 2 Clay < 1mm; Ja = 4
Stiff > 5mm Ja = 10
Soft > 5mm Ja = 15 PROJECT

AREVA
TITLE
Swelling > 5mm Ja = 20 FLOW CHART TO DETERMINE

JOINT ALTERATION, Ja
An infilling is defined as a continuous infilling of > 1mm thickness. PROJECT No. 08-1362-0491 FILE No. ----
A coating is defined as a discontinuous infilling of 1 to 2 mm thickness. CADD

CHECK
GTW
--
22APR08
FIGURE 2.9
REVIEW
Infilled ?
NO NO
YES
Clean,
Infill Thickness ? Coated ?
slightly altered
YES
Soft gouge > 5 mm > 1mm to 5 mm Continuous joints, Continuous joints, Continuous joints, Discontinuous joints
OR OR Soft joint wall rock Separation < 1mm Separation < 1mm OR
Open Joints > 5mm Slickensided (altered joint walls) WITH WITH Continuous joints,
surfaces OR Planar, smooth Planar, rough to Separation < 1mm
sand or clay 1mm to slightly rough wavy, smooth Wavy, very rough
(coatings) hard joint wall rock hard joint wall rock hard joint wall rock
Jcon = 0 Jcon = 6 Jcon = 12 Jcon = 12 Jcon = 20 Jcon = 25
PROJECT
AREVA
TITLE
FLOW CHART TO DETERMINE

JOINT CONDITION, Jcon
PROJECT No. 08-1362-0491 FILE No. ----
CADD GTW 22APR08
CHECK
REVIEW
--
FIGURE 2.10
APPENDIX I
GEOTECHNICAL CORE LOGGING PARAMETERS

08-1362-0491
April 2008 I-1 Doc No. Ver. 0
TABLE I-1: Intact Material (Rock and Soil)

Strength Classification (Modified from: ISRM, 1981)
Approx. Range of Uniaxial

Grade Description Field Identification Compressive Strength
Mpa And (Psi)
G Granular Soil Cohesionless, friable, granular soil, sand. 0
Easily penetrated several centimetres by
S1 Very Soft Clay <0.025
fist.
Easily penetrated several centimetres by
S2 Soft Clay 0.025-0.05
thumb.
Can be penetrated several centimetres with 0.05 0.1
S3 Firm Clay thumb with moderate effort. Crumbles (< 1.0 on Pocket
under light pressure from a nail. Penetrometer)
Readily indented by thumb, but penetrated 0.10 0.25
S4 Stiff Clay only with great effort. Crumbles under (1.0 to 2.5 on Pocket
moderate pressure from a nail. Penetrometer)
S5 Very Stiff Clay Readily indented by thumbnail. 0.25-0.50
S6 Hard Clay Indented with difficulty by thumbnail. >0.50
Indented by thumbnail. 0.25 1.0
R0 Extremely weak rock (>2.5 on Pocket
Penetrometer)
Crumbles under firm blows with point of 1.0 - 5.0
R1 Very weak rock geological hammer, can be peeled by a (Pocket Penetrometer does
pocket knife. not indent)
Can be peeled by a pocket knife with
difficulty, shallow indentations made by
R2 Weak rock 5.0 25
firm blow with point of geological
hammer.
Cannot be scraped or peeled with a pocket
R3 Medium strong rock knife, specimen can be fractured with 25 50
single firm blow of geological hammer.
Specimen requires more than one blow of
R4 Strong rock 50 100
geological hammer to fracture it.
Specimen requires many blows of
R5 Very strong rock 100 - 250
geological hammer to fracture it.
Specimen can only be chipped with
R6 Extremely strong rock >250
geological hammer.
Reference: Brown, 1981, Rock Characterisation Testing and Monitoring: ISRM Suggested Methods, International Society
for Rock Mechanics.
Golder Associates
08-1362-0491
TABLE I-2: Weathering Classification
Discoloration Fracture Surface

Term Symbol Description
Extent Condition Characteristics
No visible sign of rock material Closed or
Fresh W1 None Unchanged
weathering. Discoloured
Discoloration indicates
<20% of fracture Discoloured,
Slightly weathering of rock material on
W2 spacing on both may contain Partial discoloration
Weathered discontinuity surfaces. Less
sides of fracture thin filling
than 5% of rock mass altered.
Less than 50% of the rock
material is decomposed and/or Partial to complete
>20% of fracture Discoloured,
Moderately disintegrated to a soil. Fresh or discoloration, not
W3 spacing on both may contain
Weathered discoloured rock is present friable except poorly
sides of fracture thick filling
either as a discontinuous cemented rocks
framework or as corestones.
More than 50% of the rock
material is decomposed and/or
Filled with
Highly disintegrated to a soil. Fresh or Friable and possibly
W4 Throughout alteration
Weathered discoloured rock is present pitted
minerals
either as a discontinuous
framework or as corestones.
100% of rock material is
Filled with
Completely decomposed and/or disintegrated
W5 Throughout alteration Resembles soil
Weathered to soil. The original mass
minerals
structure is still largely intact.
All rock material is converted to
soil. The mass structure and
Residual material fabric are destroyed.
W6 Throughout N/A Resembles soil
Soil There is a large change in
volume, but the soil has not been
significantly transported.
Reference: Brown, 1981, Rock Characterisation Testing and Monitoring: ISRM Suggested Methods, International Society
for Rock Mechanics.
Golder Associates
08-1362-0491
TABLE I-3 - Joint Condition Rating (JCR) (RMR76)
Fracture Condition JCR Value

Very rough surfaces, fractures not continuous, no separation,
25
unweathered wall rock.
Slightly rough surfaces, separation < 1mm, slightly weathered
20
wall rock.
Slightly rough surfaces, separation < 1mm, highly weathered
12
wall rock.
Slickensided surfaces OR gouge < 5mm thick OR separation =
6
1-5 mm, continuous fractures.
Soft gouge > 5mm thick OR separation > 5mm, continuous
0
fractures.
Reference: Bieniawski, 1976, Engineering Rock Mass Classifications, John Wiley & Sons.
Golder Associates
08-1362-0491
TABLE I-4: Rating Guide for Joint Surfaces
Parameter Item and Description Value

Joint
Roughness Discontinuous joints 4
(Jr)
Rough and wavy or stepped 3
Smooth and wavy or stepped 2
Rough and planar OR slickensided and wavy or stepped 1.5
Smooth and planar OR filled 1
Slickensided or polished and planar 0.5
Notes:
1. Joint Roughness (Jr) descriptions refer to small scale (roughness) and intermediate scale (shape of fracture over
width of core) in that order. For example roughness = smooth and shape = wavy.
2. Zones containing clay minerals thick enough to prevent rock wall contrast, Jr=1.0
3. Sandy, gravely or crushed zone thick enough to prevent wall rock contact, Jr=1.0
Unfilled Joints
Tightly healed, hard, non-softening 0.75
Staining only, no alteration 1
Slightly altered joint walls (Sparse calcite, quartz, feldspar). 2
Silty or sandy coatings (Calcite coated or sparse chlorite, graphite, or 3
clay).
Clay coatings (Chlorite, graphite, clay coated) 4
Joint Filled Joints

Alteration Non-cohesive filling < 5mm thick (Sand, silt, and clay-free crushed or 4
(Ja) broken rock)
Non-cohesive filling > 5mm thick (Sand, silt, and clay-free crushed or 5
broken rock)
Stiff clay filling < 5mm thick (Graphite, chlorite, stiff clay) 6
Soft clay filling < 5mm thick (Soft clay) 8
Stiff clay filling > 5mm thick (Graphite, chlorite, stiff clay) 10
Swelling clay filling < 5mm thick 12
Soft clay filling > 5mm thick (Soft clay) 15
Swelling clay filling > 5mm thick 20
Notes: Italicised Joint Alteration (Ja) values equal common fracture coating material for example.
Golder Associates
08-1362-0491
TABLE I-5: Rating Guide for Joint Set Number
Parameter Item and Description Value

Massive 0.5
One or two randomly oriented joints 1
One discontinuity set 2
One discontinuity set plus randomly oriented joints 3
Joint Two discontinuity sets 4
Set Number
(Jn) Two discontinuity sets plus randomly oriented joints 6
Three discontinuity sets 9
Three discontinuity set plus randomly oriented joints 12
Four discontinuity sets 15
Crushed Rock 20
Reference: Barton, N., Lien, R., and Lunde, J., 1974, Engineering classification of rock masses for the design of
tunnel support. Rock Mechanics, 6, (4), pp. 189-236.
Golder Associates

005 0424 - 08 Manual-McClean Core Logging Manual Ver.0 PDF

Cargado por

Información del documento

Título original

Derechos de autor

Formatos disponibles

Compartir este documento

Compartir o incrustar documentos

Opciones para compartir

¿Le pareció útil este documento?

¿Este contenido es inapropiado?

Copyright:

Formatos disponibles

005 0424 - 08 Manual-McClean Core Logging Manual Ver.0 PDF

Cargado por

Copyright:

Formatos disponibles

FIELD PROCEDURES MANUAL

AREVA MCCLEAN LAKE PROGRAM

This document provides a description of procedures for the collection of geotechnical

2.0 GEOTECHNICAL CORE LOGGING

2.1 Handling Radioactive Core

3. Decontamination is the removal of radioactive material from a surface. Washing

4. No eating, drinking or smoking is permitted when handling or working near

11. Permanent storage of radioactive material is subject to regulatory requirements.

2.2 Rock Mass Classification

Logging interval depth;

2.3 Core Logging Equipment

Laptop computer with geotechnical logging database;

2.4 Acquire Logging Interface

Import/Export Used only to export data once logging of a drillhole is complete.

Core Recovery Interval/run information for assessing rock mass quality.

Feature Table Detailed geotechnical information for each individual structure in an

2.5 General Drillhole Data (Collar Form)

Figure 2.1 Collar Entry Form

2.6 Geotechnical Data Collection (Core Recovery Form)

Figure 2.2 Core Recovery Entry Form

2.6.1 Geotechnical Interval (Depth)

length of markedly different geotechnical character relative to the adjacent core is

From: 15.7 metres ... To: 18.7 metres

2.6.2 Total Core Recovery (TCR)

2.6.3 Rock Quality Designation (RQD)

the sum of the lengths of core in pieces equal to or longer than 10 cm

Figure 2.3 Example of RQD Calculation

When logging it is sometimes difficult to distinguish natural fractures from mechanical

2.6.4 Rock Type

2.6.5 Weathering/Alteration Index

2.6.6 Joint Set Number (Jn)

2.6.7 Fault and Broken Core Zones

Large Scale Fault (logged as geotechnical intervals divided only by

Broken Core (near 100% recovery)

Figure 2.5 Examples of Faults/Broken Core

Any important or distinguishing geotechnical / geological characteristics not recorded in

2.6.9 Strength Condition

Strength Index (Field Estimate of Intact Rock or Soil Strength)

testing. If a variation in rock strength is present in the geotechnical interval (e.g., 1 cm of

2.7 Fracture Data Collection (Feature Table Form)

Figure 2.6 Fracture Table Entry Form

2.7.1 Fracture Type

Bedding (BD): A discontinuity associated with sedimentary processes

Contact - Open (CONO): An open fracture on the boundary of two lithologies.

Fault (FLT): A major structural feature characterized by broken core

Joint (JN): A discontinuity with no evidence of previous movement.

Vein - Open (VNO): An open discontinuity infilled by another mineral

2.7.2 Fracture Shape and Roughness

2.7.3 Joint Parameters (Q System)

Fracture Roughness (Jr)

Fracture Alteration (Ja)

Planar Smooth Planar Polished Planar Slickensided

Planar Rough Planar Very Rough

Undulating Rough Undulating Smooth Stepped Rough

Curved Rough Mechanical Break

Figure 2.7 Examples of Fracture Shape and Roughness

2.7.4 Joint Condition Rating

2.8 Core Photography

Figure 2.11 Examples of Color Chart to be Included in Core Photographs

2.8.1 In the Core Shack

Repeat the procedure for BOTH wet and dry core.

2.8.2 At the Drill Rig

Place a wooden depth marker at each end of the split tube.