ESCOLA POLITECNICA DA UNIVERSIDADE DE SAO PAULO

DEPARTAMENTO DE ENGENHARIA DE MINAS

ADVANCED TOPICS OF ROCK MECHANICS

(PMI 5779 - Topicos Avancados em Medinica de Rocbas)

LECTURE 4:

"CHARACTERIZATION OF ROCK MASSES AND FILLED

DISCONTINUITES"

The characterization of individual joints that make up the joint sets that
intersect with other sets to form the rock mass has been the subject of the
previous lecture. In effect we have characterized the interfaces within the
rock mass, and must now tackle the whole population of interfaces which
interact in a more complex way. The complexity involved defies precise
data acquisition. The correspondingly complex numerical modelling would
also be impossible, so we must perform simplified but representative
numerical models. Consequently, we most frequently resort to empirical,
descriptive, quality rating schemes (classification), such as the RMR and Q-
Systems. Much use is also made of the simple RQD method of describing
the quality of drill core. (The RQD value features in both the RMR and Q-
systems as one of the key parameters).

As the size of our engineering problems increases (tunnel, cavern, dam

abutment, open cast mine) and the relative rock block size reduces, block
rotations as well as block translations become important. Filled
discontinuities are a special case of the above as they represent a micro
mass sandwiched between rock interfaces. Description of their
characteristics is important if their special behaviour is to captured in an
analytical empirical or numerical scheme of calculation.
Due to the frequent complexity of rock masses and filled descontinuities ,
communication of their character and of key parameters is of paramount
importance. Since physical variability is the rule rather than the exception, it
is essential that the visual, three dimensionally varied structure is
communicated well (by means of sketches and photographs) and that the
parameter variability is adequately captured in statistics. This can be
achieved by histograms of key parameters and properties. Since we cannot
record every detail about a rock mass, only key data that we know will
directly effect the behaviour of our structures is presented.

The lecture first gives examples of visual communication techniques, using

some illustrative photographs and sketches of particular features of rock
masses. The two major classification schemes (Q, RMR) and field logging
sheets for each method are reproduced for ready reference. Some visual
examples of Q-Iogging using "rated photographs" are given.
Since initial access to rock masses is often limited to drill core,
recommendations concerning core logging are given, and some typical core
logs are provided to illustrate how engineering data could be presented
more directly. Filled descontinuities are often the chief source of
difficulties in rock engineering projects and their characterization is
therefore of extra importance. The lecture concludes with a glimse at
projects where both lUv1R and Q-data have been collected and compared.
Inter-relationships between the two systems are shown, and principal
aspects of both systems (stand-up time: from RMR, and tunnel support
requirements from Q) are cross correlated to illustrate the possibility of
utilizing the systems in parallel.

2
 r

r: A. Communication of the joint and discontinuity structures.

{~

f In the case of a rock mass, good three dimensional sketches are worth more
r than the proverbial "thousand words". Where possible these should be
accompanied by photographs. Some examples are given in this section.

Photographs of rock masses that communicate the variability of

individual joint sets and of individual rock types.
Sketches of four specific types of rock mass and complex filled
discontinuities (ISRM 1978).
Sketches of the relative persistence of joint sets and their relevance to
rock slope stability (ISRM, 1978).
r: Sketches of joint structures in relation to engineering structures (ISRM,
r: 1978).
3DEC models of lOx lOx 10m cubes of jointed sandstone with example
r pilot excavation. Japanese road tunnel (NGI, 1996).
I Joint rosette and Schmidt stereo net showing statistics of joint set
( orientations in two and three dimensions (ISRM, 1978).
r:
Four rock slope failure modes and their joint pole representation (Hoek
r: and Bray, 1976).

r
r
(
r
(
r'-
3
"'-.. _-, .
..
 )

a b

c d
Fl. 23. E mplcs of field ,ketdleo of oomplel filled dllConllnulllCS
Fia. 2~. Sketches or rock masses illustratinl (a) block.\".(b) irrfyular. (c) lobular. and (d) col_ block shapes. [I).

(/5RM/(Fta)
) ) )) 1./) ') : ')) ) I I " \

I I CD I

~(.=.
e.,
I
r-4., I
-.
~r:/~
L __
-,---,-
- -
!_Lr-
_I_~ -
7
(j) ,a.- '.I.
-~-- .t.,," '.IIu,.
ell
I
--
ul,
I @
<!> "... '.llur.
'ID'

'ID'

....

e., I"

Fi. 11. Simple sketches and block diagrams help to indicate the
relative 1'V""'IIt' of tbe various sets of discontinuities. Examples
adapted from [1) and [2].
 Suggested Methods for the Quantitative Description of Discontinuities

1. 200'/10'
2. no'/IS'
a. ots'/9O'
(a) . 110'/1.

(It)
1. 055/15
2. 21S/70
3. 030/32

1. 1.'
2. 1.'/15'
a. 2U:t."

Fie- 2. Perspective views and block diagams provide a qualitative picture or jointing and its relationship to eaci-rinl
structures. ( I>I<M / (I/-1a)
 ~
HGI

Figure 7.1 3DECmodelofjointgeometryseenfrom Westemendin WaiJ2rock.lN(;(, 1"6)

 International Society for Rock Mechanics

~'I~------~------~

5
~O-40

Fig, 3. Two methods of representing orientation data on a joint rosette.

UNITAUA-1/o
AalA Of DI AOaAM
0'$
N

,..

110

F;. , Schmidt '0000"' diagram 1',=0';0, <h. 0".0""~0 of ,~

The main sets I and II are approximately
K" of ;0;0" plotted 00
normal to each other. and the minoc set III is nearly
((!,~~~r.,:~!)
horizontal.
 Suggested Methods for the Quantitative Description of Discontinuities

pel f
l.ell.lelu.1
J.I"t ,1."

Circular f.llur. In
lIy J.lnt.eI r.ck
/ with _ leI_tlfl.ltl.
.truetur.1 patt.rR

Gr t drcle
rel "t
N
,...
...._-
t .
pel.
cewce.t~
tl_

It. 'Ia". f.llur. I" hl.hly

arel.reel .truetur ucla
I.t .

r
r N

c. W f.llur. on two
uectla t. af
,..at

N
(

r:

eI.T.,pll,.. f.llur. ~_
..., .t_ply 41",1 ~at

r:
,
FJI. 6. Itepescnution of structural data concerning four possible slope failure modes. plotted oa equaIiIII equal-area
r: (3].(h'o
nets as poles and great circles. Ill( ~ ~

(
\

I
I
\

,
I
r:
I

(
 B. Rock mass characterization using RMR and Q-Systems.

/ The two most frequently used rock mass classification methods were
developed in 1973 and 1974 by Bieniawski and Barton, Lien and Lunde.
The ratings for the RMR and Q-values, and field recording schemes are
reproduced in this section.

The RMR classification ratings for rock masses, joints and discontinuities
(Tables A, B, C, D and E, Bieniawski, 1989).
The RMR input data form is a useful check list for describing the rock
mass, joints and discontinuities.
The Q-system of rock mass classification (Barton at al. 1974, Barton and
Grimstad, 1994).
Comparison of RMR and Q parameters and mode of calculation.
Example of classification ratings for the Sphinx in Egypt.
Six photographs of rock masses with their Q-parameter ratings.
The 20 parameters represented in the NGI geotechnical logging chart, for
recording the principal parameters needed for empirical (Q-system) and
numerical modelling (UDEC-BB or 3DEC).
Statistical representation of rock mass geotechnical parameters (red/top =
rock mass structure, blue/centre = joint and discontinuity characteristics,
green/bottom = "active stress" (water, stress, strength).
Example of NGI geotechnical chart: Lotus spread sheet of Gjovik cavern
data mapped by Bhasin (Barton et al. 1994).

4
 Table 2 The Rock Mass Raring System (Geomechanics Classification of Rock

l Masses) by Bieniawski, 1989.

A. CLASSIFICATION PARAMETERS AND THEIR RATINGS

1 . P1I, tl' RanglofV

foIlhia low range.

Pointlo.d strength
>10 4-10 24 12 wUxiaI c0lT'tPr ive
Strength of index (MPII'
test is preferred
intact rock
I material Unilxialc~
>250 100-250 50-100 2550 5-25 15 <1
strength ( ,

I'Ietint 15 12 7 4 2 I 0

0011eor. _lity "00 C'" go.100 75-90 50-75 25-50 <25

2
Rating 20 17 13 8 3
-
Spicing of discontinuities >2m 0.So2m 200-600mm 6O-200mm <60mm
3
Rlting 20 15 10
SicUnsided
5

Vwy rough
Slightly rough Slightly rough ...teces, or
...taces lsoft gouge > 5mzn
...tac Sapa- surf.ces. SIpa- Gouve <Smm
Not continuous ;thick, or
Condition of discontinuities ration < Imm. ration <1mm 1hict,or
No_tion
Un __ ~tion >5mza
4 Slightly wu- Separation 1
Highly --- :cantinuous
u-ed wa' thered we. 5nwn. Corn;'
waI roct

Rating 30 25 20 10 0

1nIIow_ 10...
U>nIII IengIh Il./IIIinI None <10 10-25 2S-125 >t2li

- -.-
Joint_
Goc>und-
"-tio

--
0 <0.1 0.1-0.2 0.2-0.5 >0.5
5 IIII.;cw
potncipeI

Genet., conditions Completely dry Oamp Wet 0fIpp;ng Flowing

tIMintI 15 10 7 4 0

B. RATING ADJUSTMENT FOR DISCONTINUITY ORIENTA TIONS

Strike and Dip Orientations of
Vwy Favourable Favourable Fair Urmovou.able Very Untavourable
Discontinuities

Tunnels and mines 0 -2 -5 -10 .1.2

Ratings Foundations 0 2 -7 15 25
Slopes 0 -5 25 50 60

C. ROCK MASS CLASSES DETERMINED FROM TOTAL RATINGS

Rlrting 100 <- 81 eo <61 60 <- 41 ~<-21 <20

Class no.

Deecription
I

Vwy good rock

Good rock FW
rock
(V.

Poo< rock
V

Very poor rock

D. MEANING OF ROCK MASS CLASSES

Ous no. I n III IV V

A_age a1and_ time

Cohesion of the rod: CICh'

fric:tion angle of the rock

(e,
20 yr for I5m span

>400

>45
I yr for 10m sp.n

300-400

35-45
I wk for 5m span

200-300

25-35
10 hr for 2.5m
span

100-200

15-25
-
30 onin lor 1m

<100

<15

931005-2213

~--------i.
. PCo\93100S\rq!\22-3 2M~I994
 "- ~'"JiWh-..&:: ..

'\)) ') ') ') ') ') ') ') ') ')'1 \. ') ') '\ ') ') ') ') ') ~\, ') ') ') ) ')

Tablt 2 The Rock Mass Rating System (Geomechanics Classification of Rock

Masses) by Bieniawski, /919 (Continued)
E. GUIDELINES FOR CLASSIFICATION OF DISCONTINUITY CONDITIONS
Perimeter Ratlngl

Dilcontlnulty length <1m I-3m 3-10m lO-20m >20m

(plrllltlnce/continulty) 6 4 2 1 0

None <O.lmm 0.1 - 1.0mm 1-5mm >5mm

Slp.,.tion (aperture)
6 6 4 1 0
Very rough Rough Slightly rough Smooth Slickensided
Roughnl
6 II 3 1 0

Non. <lImm >5mm < fimm >5mm

Infilling, (gouge)
6 4 2 2 0

Moderately
Unweathered Stigtlt1y weemer.d Highly weathered Decomposed
Weeth.rlng weathered
6 II 1 0
3

Note: Some conditions are mutually exclusive. For example, if intiHing Is present, it is irrelevant what the roughness may be, since its
effect will be overshadowed by the Influence of the gouge. In such cases, USB Tables A-D directly.

~ ~

NGI
.,
INPUT DATA FORM: GEOMECHANICS CLASSIFICATION (ROCK MASS RATING SYSTEM)
Name of project:
Site of survey: STRL' rURAL I DEPTH, m I ROCK TYPE I CONDITION OF DISCONTINUITIES
Conducted by: REGION PERSISTENCE (CoNTINUITY) Set 1 Sft 2 Set 3 Set 4
Date: .
Very low: < 1m .
S'TRENGTH OF INTACT ROCK MATERiAL DRILL CORE QUALITY R.a.o. Low: 1 -3m .
Uniaxlal . Point-lead
Medium: 310 m .
Designation compressive OR strength Excellent qual~y: 90-1000/0
. strength, MPa index, MPa Good qual~y: 7590% High: 1020 m . .
Fair qual~y: 5075% Very high: > 20 m .
Very High: Over 250 >10 \ Poor quality: 2550"10 SEPARATION (APE~TURI:)
High: 100250 4 10 Very poor qual~y: <25"10
Very tight joints: < 0.1 mm
Medium High: 50-100 0-4 .
Moderate: 25-50 12 . Tight joints: 0.10.5 mm .. .
Low: 525 <1.. 1 R.O.D. Roell. OUII~y Designation Moderately open joints:0.5 2.5 mm .. .
Very low: \-5 Open joints: 2.5 - 10 mm .
STRIKE AND DIP ORIENTATIONS
Very wide aperture: >10mm .
ROUGHNESS (state also If surleces ar. st.pped, undulating or pl.nar)
Set 1 Sttike .................. (Irom ............... to ............... ) Dip:............... . . .. ...... .. ..
(av.rage) (angle) (direction) V.ry rough surfacn: .. .
Set 2 Strik .................. (Irom ............... 10 .............. ) Dip:.............. ........ . .. ... Rough surtaces: .

Strik .................. (Irom ............... to ............... ) Dip ........................... Slightly tough lurfaces:
Set 3
Smooth surlaces:
S.t ~ Strik .... :............. (from ............... to ............... ) Oip:..............................
Slickensided surl.eta:
NOTE: Ref.r all directions to magnetic north. FILLING (GQUGE)

SPACING OF DISCONTINUITIES Type:

Thickness:
s.t 1 Set 2 Set 3 Set 4
Uniaxial compr siv. Ilrength, Mna .
V.ry wid.: Over2m ... " ........ ............... ,..... . . .... .. ." ...........
Seepag.:
Wid. 0.62 m ............... . .............. .." ........... .............. WAll ROCK OF DISCONTINUITIES
Mod.rat.: 2OO600mm .............. ,
.... r .. ............... . ..............
Unweathered
Clo : 60 200 mm ............... ............... ............... . ...... ~
'" ...
Slightly weath.red
Very close: <60mm ............... ............... .... . ... .... . .. ................
Mod.rately weath.red
GROUND WATER Highly wuth.red
Complet.ly wuthlred
INFLOW per 10 m Iit.r! ""inute GENERAL CONDITIONS (compl.tely dry. Residual l.Jil
01 tunnell.ngth ............ darnp, w.t. dripping or flowing und.r GENERAL REMAI'IKS AND ADDITIONAL DATA
Of low/medium or high pressure, I MAJOR rAl.Jl TS . IP'c~y IoaIhty, n.ture and orientlllions.
WATER PRESSURE kPa
IN SITU STRESSES
INOTE: For definitions and methods consuft [SAM docum.nt: 'Quantitative description of
discontinuities in roc masses.'

Flgur.2.6 Input data form for engineering classification of rock masses. 13if...;
0. wfki. ((1 f1)
 Table 1. Updated Q-system parameter ratings (1993 update)

,.
A
Roc:k Ouality

Very POOl
Designation ROD

025
5. Joint Water

Dry axc.vat'ana
Reduction hc:tOt

01 INnot inflow. i.e., < 5 Um,n

-
",M .
..'-"'1.
Jw

A <1 1.0
B POOl 2550 locally

C Fair 5075 ~djum inflow or preuute. occ.Isjonal outwash of

B joint 'illings 12.5 0.66
0 Good 7590
Largo inflow 0<high pr.ssur. in competent rock with
E Excellent 90100 C unfilled joints 2.5-10 0.5

Noel: tl \\"here ROD is reponed Ot melSU'ed as :5 10 (including 0). a nomiNI Lar;. inflow 01 high preUU'a. consid.rable outwalh
.va..ltat. o.
vak.te of 10 is used to 0 of joint filing. 2.510 0.33
;t) RQO imervals of 5. i.~.. 100."95. 90. ~IC ar. sufrociently accurate.
exceptionaly high inflow 0< w.ter pressure ot
E blasting. decaying wiih time >10 0.2.().1

exc.ptianaIy high inI\ow 0< woter pr.ssure

2. Joint Set Number F continuint withoul noticeabl. decay >10 0.1'().05
J"
A Mass,ive. no or few joir.ts Not.: i) FK'tOfs C to F at. crude estimAteJ. Incr se J. if drainage ..
0.5 1.0
ar. installed.
B One joint set 2 ii) Special problems caused by ice formotion ore not considolM.
C One joint set plus random joints 3
0 Two joint sets 4
E Two joint sets plus random joints S 6. Stress Reduc:tion Fac:tor SRF

F Three joint sel. I oj W . n.ss

zones int.I'SKt.itt, exutIWtioII. wIt .-., c.NIIN ........,., ~

G lhtee jo'nt sets plus random joints 12 tn4SS when tunnel is exc .v.t.-d

Four or more joint SIts. random. huvily jointed; Multiple ocane"ces oi _akness _ con&ainineMy or ~
H 15 A 10
sug.r cvbe etc. caIy disintegr.ted rock.. -V _ .ounding ""'" IaIY(~

J Crushed rock. earthlih Single wuItr-..u ._ conzainintl<*y or c:horr>iuIIy

20 8 5
disint Ud rock kIqI<tl oi UICOIwtion !S 5Oa>I
Note: i) Fo<intersections. use f3.0 " J.)
ii) FOIpoetals. use 2.0 " J. I s<ngIe ..-. zones containing <*y or ctwmic:oolly
C disintegraled rock \depth of e~ > SOIR) 2.5

UlAtipie ~ zones in compet.,. rock &<:ay-''''l. !nose 7.5

0 1UfT0<.nding roc:t Ianor ckpth)
3. JJnt Roughness Number J, Single one. zones in competent rock &<:ay'"",,1(de:ptlT
of 5.0
E ucavation !S 50ml
.J Roclc-w" c_r.ct. __ b} rocIt'IdIamurrt J/GM '0011 ahe.r
Single shear ._ in c_tent rock eca,..._1 (depth of 2.5
A Discontinuous joints 4 F excavation > SOm)
B Rough Of irregufaf. undulating 3 Loose. open joints, he.vily jointed 0< 'sugar cube'. n:. 5.0
C Smooth. uncIuIa1jng G depth)
2
0 SIidenaided. unduIatint 1.5 Note: i) Raduca the values of SRF by 25-5()'" if tho ..-- z_s
orIy inIIuenc. but do not intersect tho ~
E Rough 0<irr~. pIww 1.5

G
F

Note: i)
Smooth. planar
Slickensided. planar
Descriptions r.f., to smaD scale features and intermediate seal.
1.0
0.5 bI
H
~_.-.
Low str .-
Iedt ._u
...uce. _
proIiIetrn
joints
". w,
>200
~o

~
SRF
2.5
futures. in that Ofdel'.
N.Iedt ___ ....,. Medium str.ss. f.".,.,lbIo str.ss
cJ J condition
20(>10 O.o1~" 1
Z_ ~ c:1eyoniner. Ihict..-.gh to High stress. wry tight s~.
N 1.0
prewnt rockwall C<>A&aCt K UsuaDy f.".,.,oblo to stabii!y. moy lQ-1 0.2-0"- 0.5-2
Sandy. g"'",,"y or cJUahed z_ thc:t ..-.gh to be unf.-.ollie for sabiIity.
J 1.0
_vent ,oc:k-wall C<>A&aCt MocIo<otosIabbint on. > I '-" in
L ~,ocI< 5-3 O~.as 5-.1C1
Nelle: i) Add 1.0 it tt-e _ ~ of joint set is ~ter than ~
i) J, - 0.5 can be _ tor pIww aicUnsided joints Nving lineations. sa.bbint _ rocl< Iu:st .tur " few
M 3-2 0.85-1 50-200

.,
PRMded tt-e '"-ions . oriented for minimum strength. minutes in __ rock

Heavy rock ust tsuain-bu<stl and

N imrnediata ct,.n.mic dllffom8tiors in <2 >1 XIO-4OO
4. Joint Alteration Number Jo trYu.r.. roct
~O

aJ RDcIr_= /no __ -....",.,_tinpJ Note: ii) For strongly anisotropic wgin stress r~1d !if mNsurwG:
5 s: tl1/aJ :s 10. reduce tTc. to O.7Sac' wtwn crt IDa > 10 .I'eII&.c:e'.
T.ght!y healed. hard. norr-solte"u ~allle to O.SaC'" where tic - unconf..ned compression strength.. &r,8nd .,"
A
filing. i.e.. quartt or epidote . 0.75 the major and minor principal stresses, and a, - fNximurn t8ngentiII
stress (estimated from elastic theory).
8 Unaltered pm walls. strlac:e ctaining orI'( 25.35 0 1.0 iiiJ Few ease records available where depth of crown below ....-face is less
SiQohtIyalte<ed joint __ . Non-softenng mirwrol than sPan width. Suggest SRF increa.e from 2_5 to 5 fOt such cases
C coatings. sandy particles. cfay-freo disintegr.ted 25.300 2.0 ( HI.
rock. ere.
Silty 0< sandy-<:Iay coatings. smaD clay fraction 3.0
0 20-250
(non.soltening)
Softening or low friction c:c.y minetaI coatings. Le.
cJ SquHzing rod:: p/6.tic flow of Incom~lenr
~, tho inf1uonu 01 /tJgII rod: prauurw
rod:
fT.". SRF

E kaolinite or mica_ Also chlo<ite. talc. gypsuon. 8.150 4.0 o IMild ,-"'8 rocl< pr loS 5-10
grophite. ere . and smaU quontitie. of swelling clays.
P IHeavy ~ rocl< pr.,..... >1 1~20
b} Rock 11cont.c:t IMf,.,. '0 em u...r /thin minanJ filtintpJ
Not.: iv) Cases of -"'8 rock may OCcur for Mpd\ H>HOQWII tSinIh.,
F Sandy particles. clay-fr" disintogroted rock. .'e. 25.30 0 4.0 Mo. 19921. Rock mass compression strength CIft be ~
q 7, Ql" IMP.) wher. , _ rock density in ~ ~ '"3).
G
Strongfy over-<:onsoIidaIM ~
fillings (continuous. but < 5mm thctnusl
day mineral
16-240 S.O
tII S 1DCIc:~ ctiWty d.--.,__ fil_
H
tMdium 0<low _<0< ,:SS8tiof\...".....
. ,... {ccrUuaa. but 1I*t:nassI <,.., a.., 12.160 8.0 A IMild c-.g rock pr I 5-10
S IHeavy ~ rock pre I 1~15

........ --=-- of.-..,.,..........,..v.s..

SweIIint-drr ~ iA..
1conIinuaus. but <5oNa GI oJ.
J .,20 B12
ec::cea to .at e1C.
C/ ".Iedt_ c..r-f _ ----1INt:* ,."".
ICL
M
Z-
a.., Ot bands of disintagmM
!see G. H. J ,Ot ~
",.....,.
ofdooy
Net .
CGnOIiIior4 5-24 0

5-12 Noc.: J _ J _fic.ticn
~S1 f':""ollie
is """""" to 1he joint set 0<cfiscw'
,. ataiIity from the ~ of ~_
., ;.
Zones 0< bends 01 silty- <II ~. _ dey
N fACtion Cnon-softeningl 5.0 she ..-.nc. ~ r - _. _ CJ,1J.1.

OP TNc:k. c_inuous lone. Ot bends of day bH G. H. 10.13.

J fo<Mscription 01 clay condition! 5-24
R 0< 1320
 , RocIr-qudtyr dea!gnation '-'I- ' ROD..:. . 5_.Jolnt water. reduclion factor . AppnJlt aler Jw
~: ' ,. ,,' , pres, (kg/end
A Very poor o- 25
B Poor 25 - SO A Dry excavahons or ITWl()( tnflOw. t.e., <1 to
C Fair SO-75 <5 Umin IOcaUy
o Good 75 - 90 B Medium inflow or presSU'e. occasional 1-2.5 0.86
E Excellent 90 - 100 outwash of joint fiMings
C Large tnflow or presSU'e ., competent 2.5-10 0.5
Note: HI) Where ROO Is reported or measured as s 10 (Incjudng 0), rock with unfHled joints
a nominal value of. 10 Ia uled to evaluate a. o Large inflow or high pressure. 2,5-10 0.33
II ROO Intervals ot 5. Le.. 100, 95, gO, ete., considerable outwash of ;oints fillings
are sufficiently accurate, E ExceptionaUy high tnflow or water >10 0.2-0,1
.Joint set numb. In pressure at blasttng. oeeaytng with time
F ExceptionaMy high inflow or water >10 0.1-0,05
A MassIve. no or few joints o.s - to pressure continuing Without noticeable
B One Joint set 2 decay
COne jOtnt set plus random joints 3
D Two joint sets 4 Note: I) Facton C to F crude tmatea. h:rease J. If ~ !::
E Two joint sets plus random /C*1ts 8 meUU'el are n.taIed' ~-
F TIYee joint sets 9 I) Spedai problemS caused by Ice tormetIon are not ~ed
G TIYee joint sets plus random joints
H Four or more joint sets. ranoom.
12
15
a' Stress reduction factor . . ' ": ' SRF
.) Week". zon.e ;,t~ eXCllretion, wfIIch"..y CIIUU ~ of
heav~y jointed. "suqar cube', etc.
rock".. ""." tunnel xur.tM!
J Crushed rock, earthlike 20
A Multiple occurrences of weakness zones containing 10
Note: I) FOt ntersectlons, 11M (3.0 X J,J
clay or chemically disintegrated rock. very loose
ill For portals. use (2.0 x J,J
s~rounding rock (any depth)
. Joint roughness number J, . B Single weakness zones containing clay or cherrucaly 5
a) RocIc-.., coni"" MId b) rock-"" contllCt before 10cm sheM disintegrated rock (depth of excavation s 5Om)
C Single weakness zones containing clay or chemicaly 2.5
A Discontinuous joints 4 lisintegrated rock (depth of excavation > 5Om)
B Rough or irregular, undulating 3 o Muttiple shear zones in competent rock (clay-free). 7.5
C Smooth, undulating 2 loose surrounding rock (any depth)
o Sllckensrded. undutating tS E Single shear zones in competent rock (clay-free) 5.0
E Rough or irregular. planar t5 (depth of excavation s 50m)
F Smooth, planar to F Single shear zones in competent rock (Clay-free) 2.5
G Slickensided. planar 0.5 (depth of excavation > 5Om)
G Loose, open joints, heav~y jointed or sugar cuoe", 5.0
Note: i) Descriptions refer to small scale leatures. and Intermediate
scale features, in that order. etc. (any depth)
Note: I) Reduce these vakJes of SRF by 25-50%' if the relevant shear
c) No rock-,," cootsct ""." shHnd zones only influence but do not interseet the excavation,
H Zone containing clay minerals thick 1.0 bJ Competent nx:k. .tre ~ Oc 10, o,/Oe SRF
enough to prevent rock-waR contact
-~is--'.
I,
I
J Sandy. gravelly or crushed zone thick
enough to prevent rock-wall contact
1.0 H Low stress, near s~face. open joints
J Medium stress. favourable stress
condition
>200
200-10
<0,01
0,01-0.3 ',..1;."
t~-~-
Note: i) Add to if the mean spacing of the relevent joint set is greater K High stress, very tight structure, 10-5 0.3-O,4f0,5-2
then 3m,
I) J,. 0,5 can be used for planar sHckensided joints having
lneations, provided the lineations are oriented for minim~
Usually favourable to stability, may
be unfavOU'able lor waU stabiity, ~::-;~::l
L Moderate slabbing after >1 ho~ in 5-3 0.5-0.65 -$-50
~C;;cdoin~alteration
atrength.
number ' . 0, .
massive rock ''.::r~~~''
Ja M Slabbing and rock burst after a few 3-2 0.65-1 SO-:200
~ ... - appro '
minutes in massive rock
a) Ifodr ., contIIctho ~ ~ only co.,;,gs) N Heavy rock burst (strain-bLl'St) and <2 >1
immediate dynamic defonnations in
A Tightly healed hard non-softening, impermeable 0,75 massive rock
liIIing. i.e" quarts or epidOtE;
B Unaltered joint walls. sllface staining only 25-35" 1.0 Note: ii) For ItrOOlh anisotropic vrgh Itress field (if rneasnd):
C Slightly altered jotnt waMs, Non-softenIng mineral 25-30" 2.0 when 5 S 17,/17, S 'D. recSJceC7eto o.75C7e, wt..n fI,lfls >
coatings, sandy particles, clay-free disintegrated 10. reQjce C7eto Q.5CJc wtwe fie' uncoomed ~enbl
rock. etc. strengtf1 17, and CJs'" !he map and rt*lor prtlCIpeI
0 S~ty- or sandy-clay coatings, small clay fraction 20-25" 3.0 stresses, and 17.' maxITun tano;IentIaJstress (e~
(non-softening) fonn elastic theory).
E Softening or low friction clay mineral coatings, i.e. 8-16" 4,0 I) Few case reoordl aYalable where depth of tf'own below
kaotinite or mica, Also ct-4orite, talc, gypsum, lIrlace is lesS than span width. Suggest SRF ilcruse from
graphite, etc., and smal quantities of swelling 2.5 to 5 for such cues (see H), .' - _ .~ .
clays,
cJ Sqtwuing rocIc pM.de Ifotr 01 bcotrrpetent rock SRF
b!1fodr _ before 1Ocm.".., (thin ~ fiA'tga) underthe ;,ffUMJCe of high rock ,.,....,.

F Sandy particles, clay-free diSintegrated rock, etc. 25-30" 4,0 o Mild squeezing rock presSU'e 15
G Strongly over-consoHdated non-softening clay 16-24" 6,0 P Heavy squeezing rock presSU'e >5
mineral filnngs (continuous, but <Smm thickness)
H Medium or low over-consolidation, softening, clay 12-16" 8.0 Note: "'iv) , C~se~ of sciue~rt;g roC:t~rNY ~ for deplh-tfoiiq.41/1 ."
mineral fillings (continuous. but <Smm thickness) (Singh et ~ 1992). Rock mua compressloo ~ ,1*\ be -
J Swelling-clay fUlings, Le., montrnorHionite 6-12" 8-12 tknated from q % 0.7 Y Q 1/3 UoFa) where Y rodt ~
(continuous, but <5mm thickness), Value of J. In kNlm' (SIngh, 'I99S). .:. ~~ ~:.
depends on percent 01 swelling clay-size particles,
and access to water, etc. tIJ Sweling rocIc chetrriCIII .~ M:tirfty depdng on ",...,. 01 ,.,.

R MIld sweDing rock press~e

S Heavy swelling rock pressure
K}zones or bands of disintegrated or crushed rock 6-24- 6.8. or
L and clay (see G.H,J for description of clay 8-12 :i
Note: r and Ja claulflcation Is ~ to IIw jotrt let or ~ .
M condition) that Is least favourable for stability boa! from !he ~t at vIIw of ~
N Zones or bands of sDty- or sandy-clay, smaft clay 5.0 orientation ind shear resi$tance,T~' T"'fIn tan (J"Ja).~'~'..i.~
~ .",'
-. . ..~,-;l.
"~'I'.J
...
fraction (non-softening)
O}ThiCk' continuous zones or bands of clay 6-24- 10,13, or a.Raox~x~
~ (see G, H,J for descriptionof clay condition) 13-20 J" J. SRF

Table 2. Ratings for the sa Q-system parameters (SRF updates by Grimsdad and Barton, 1993).

tv as TUNNB.LIIIIG, OCTOBER 1994 Q '0

-)C_k
2-
-
/"0 ~ ~ 4xfIO+.!!)I 41
" 2. Z-s Co \' 100

~p~
 DEPTH ZONE

Q (typical range) = Q (mean) =

OJ
01
ro
CL
>
OJ
0:::
--
OJ
ro
Cl
C
en
VI
( )x( )x( )( )x( )x( )

V.PaR I f'([R I F~ I sm XC. ROO %

B
- I

I en I
c
ro
OJ

-
E
0
DII
L
0
[
I

I
I
peces
~ 10cm

K
0 1) 20 30 40 so 60 70 80 90100 100

Z
Cl
t-
..
~wQ
1?O
J'lca, ro
S
I
Z
Am Rl..R Inm
I

I
TWO (H 10

I~al
In
Pll sets

E
-c
LJ
Cl
-J
-
0
~L...

II
S 20 '5 12 9 6
I

4 3 2 1 5

Jr

-'-
0
~I
- I
(4)r)

af'ld
to 5 1 15 15 2 3 4
l.kilt

~
fmuable
I

<t: THO: F1I.lS THIH sus CIlAmJ lICRtlEO IOl. Ja

f--
<I: T ~
0 A
I
I
- lsst
I
f--
0::::
N
(<Pp) 2013 i2'1) 8 6 5
I

12 8 6 4 4 3 2 1
I

075
I~
~

<I: A EXL 1HfU7w'S HIIii PRESS WET

-
"'fRY
i--- Jw
-L
LJ
[ -
- r-
T -
---
i---
- i--- water
L:J I -
- I---
lJ'eSSU'e
V ,
Z
L:J
L:J
E 05 1 2 33 5 ---==
66
I'--
1
~

SRF
CJ
---1 .. .. .. S SIUE!E SWEll. F~TS Sf 1ISS/SiJ()(i'TH
t- . T I

---1
<t:
LJ
-.
LJCl V')
l..I..JZ Cl
Cl C) Cl
.
0::: 0::: :::c
CL c, 0...
t-
R
E
S
, , I

, ~
redr!m
tad[J"
Z S
:c 20'5105 20'51)5 1) 7-55 25 10050 20 1) 5 2 -5 1 25
LJ
LL.J
f--
SOL FRESH
Weathering
CJ
LL.J
L:J 51~ W
VI V,. VI m 0 I
Grade
GSRM)
A
J

I
I ~,
, ~.~~

1 ~ .:..-~1jj
i
-. ~~jrJt
~':'.lll".- '\-..~-_,.~~~~
I 1. GRANITE 2.
~"'rI6~~~~~~~\f.i"
GRANITE
~ . ~..... ~ :~~. J'

O. 90/9 x 1. 5/1. 0 xO. 66/1. 0 Q.70/15x3.0/1.0xO.U/l.0

10 (fair/good) 9.2 (fair)
(IE/2F, 3E/4B, 5B/6J) (Ie/2H, 3B/4B, 5B!6J)

i '
i

3. SANDSTONE-CLAYSTONE 4. NODU LAR - Lll.1ES TUNE

040/9 x!. 0/2. 0 xO. 66/1. 0 Q. 80/9~:1.0/5xO.66/5.

1. 5 (poor) .= O. 24 ~very pc o r ]
( IB/2F, 3F/4C. 5B/6J) ( ID/2F. 3J /?N, 5B/6G)

6. MUDSTONE (overall ROD- 30) 6. GRANITE (decomposed) ROD=O

Q.30/9xl.O/5xO.66/5 Qa IO/20xl.O/6xO.66/6
.0.09 (extremely poor) .0.009 (exceptionally poor)
(lB/2F. 3J/4N. SB/6B) ( lA/2J. 3J /4K. 5B/6N) ,
 Table 2. The parameters represented In the geoteclmical
logging chart.
I
1
2
I I
ROCK MASS. STRUCTURE
RQD Deere et al.,
In
1967)
= joint set number
block
size
{ QQ
.1
3 F - joint frequency (per metre)
I
4 Jv - volumetric joint count (Palmstrorn, 1982)
! 5 S - joint spacing (in metres)
6 L - joint length (in metres)
7 w - weathering grade (lSRM, 1978)
8 alB - dip/dip direction of joints (Schmidt diagram)
IT JOINT CHARACTER
joint roughness number shear
9CJ=
10 J: = joint alteration number strength
{ QQ
11 JRC - joint roughness coefficient
12 aiL - roughness amplitude of asperities per unit
length (mmlm)
13 JCS - joint wall compressive strength
14 r - residual friction angle
15 r,R - Schmidt rebound values for joint and rock
surfaces
ill WATER, STRESS, STRENGTH
16 ~ = joint water reduction factor active
{ QQ
17 SRF = stress reduction factor stress
18 K - rock mass permeability (m/s)
19 (]c - compressive strength
20 (11 - major principal stress

'---------------------------~ NGI
,'\ '...~ 'l...'.- '...'J... "- J.... '\
--------
/ '\
~L ~ L.L. _)____ _
ElEVATJ)j III IV1li 21H: X Y Z 1m! (OMMl 5: f

i
_
Iii
t=H l
. l l Set
llllJllJ
:x:
000
-i'
::0 :::0
L-

Q !typical range) = Q (mean) =

1 V1 eB
( 80-100
6-9
)X(.J.:L)X(
1-2
.66-1
1
~)X~)X~
8.7 1J 1.3
o 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 010!:1
0000000000
Schmidt (r,R)
1 12 iJ
MG.
Gl
rr1
o
Jy --l
B~~"---- RQIJ % rrt
L ~ __mI Rb
E m
I] 'I
:r
o ~ :z:
n
( SIl..2010 5215210 <to 1-3 3-10 10-30 30-60 )60

K
o 1) 20
SET CD SET CD r+'
r-

.-
S In G

I~~l
-
I L CI
)*1 III. (m) CI
Z :z:
E LI
1 2 -5 1 2 51 2 J) 1 2 5 10 .5 1 2 5 10 20 SO 5 1 2 5 10 20 50
S 20 '612' 6 4 ) 1 , 5 (I
CD ::r:

I~II_I
Jr a :::0
I --l

4>. I~I to '5, 1'5 1'5 1 ) 4

L
.1 .2 .5
({)I iIIO.l
1 2 5 10 5 1 2 5 10 20 SO (1TJIll ~-r--+--4--l
8R R>--l;

m
2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 /1.0

'~d.l.
'-;;>'1;
Ja a 8

_0
_ -i ::j
LI _-L _
-< -< 0
0
III1n11m
- Ifill .1 .2 .5 1 2 5 10 .5 1 2 5 10 20 50 (ITJIll
.' ~
"
Z
,
liVIlnde
~ (de!Tees)
p
(4),) 20131:21) e (, 5 12 a 6 4 ~ ) 1 , 0 ,15
1 2 5 10 20 50 100150200250300400 ("Pa)
CD C
CJ

}II ~
rrt
n
K

'1
a::'
OJ
10-3 -4 -5 -e
-I -t -10
-7 -II -12 -IJ -14
1 100 10 1 OJ 0.01 (l ) 10 (mls)
S 1'(6 ., SRf

1
.J] '5 '66
.'

~ 1::"\lla,
~ I fIrnI' I 1 2 5 10 20 50 100 150200250JOO400 (MPa)
2O'61)520'61)51)7-55Hl005020lOS1-51Z-S

FRESH
~~~ (1,
W~IISRM)
~ V ~ I I ~
01 All
nJ
-
ro
ro
<
-u
nJ
ID
ro
1 2 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 WB)

u..I ifl F joi1t tr~rq/m (core) K permeability I

L" joot ~ttl (Sf'ts 1 and 2) (m) J, = volLrnetric pnt count (No1m3)
< S joint soacina (m) (sets) (1~" uniax. str. (MPa) a/L r'OIlhless amplitude/length (mm/m)
> 4> resictJal friction angle
 ~-"---.~!".:.:""

VALUES:
lealmlnl.
co
.0.0.
J
12.0 1.5
J
.0 " ,, / '.0
ala eoll_d In 1 1 from ~ a_I in the tavern.

~--..~~~.....,...
OCK TYPE: Grev and Red Gnel
EOlOGY: Precambrian
leal
meanvaluetl-
80.0.
87.'
8.0
8.7
3.0/
2.3 ,.."
HI" / 1.0
'.0 A

. r b.

0 1__
,
B
" 1
L "t "'00"
01" ,
.
1
o ~
~' )1 II
,.-
C ~
K

o .,., " .... ,0, . 10. "\oo~ ' SOIL 20 10 e 2 1 0.5 0.2 0.' 0 0 <1 1-3 ).10 1~ 30-) >80

..,.
... .
.~
<Ill
B 'DO

I
Z
....
~ .""
10
oo' 10
E oo ~ ~ 00
8
DO o 0.' U o.a , 3' I

0.,""'41"0.

8
H
E
A
R
111_ -
J

..-.-..

II_-
8 , . 1 t.' 1.' . .........,. '~1. ,.,. ,~'" ,.,, 111Wn 0.1 .1'.' 1 10 0.1 o.a t." 10
T
R
E
J
o
1
N
B
T
H to ,. II ,. ,. I , '.11
.- J
C
9
MP .1__

A
C
... I
-~-..... -~..- HI

HI 20222.28283032~3838'O
T
...,..II
II
J

V
E
I

.. ....
I
.... .... --
@]
~-. JOiNT UAENTATlONS. dlp/dlodit

...
U tt~ U'
9 I.' I.' '.1
I
T I . 1..-;

rn
R I I, . 1 z :' .'
E I
S I

..,. JI .... ..
S I
E
S ,t ..... 10(>.110
.
200-210
eo
100-400
rI I

j
,_._-----------
-----
.~-:.. --:- ~~~. . --=
-- -
--------------------
- - ---- --
E-
-- [I] ,t
~-
..,. , -- -"10--
-.-
- ..
..
-- --.
~. lET
~
-
......
c. The Rock Quality Designation (RQD) of Deere (1964)~
utilized in both the RMR and O-Systems of rock mass
classification

The centre-line length of core pieces is recommended (lSRM, 1978)

when recording the % of competent core pieces(non-crumbling rock)
more than 100 mm length
The Palmstron (1975) approximation between volumetric joint count (Jc)
and RQD.
Idealized block volumes in relation to J, and block shape (Palmstron,
1975).
Conventional core log giving recovery %, RQD %, and graphic joint log
with depth, dip, dip direction, roughness, mineral type.
Graphic log of decomposition grade, RQD and discontinuity spacing (50,
300, 1000, 3000 mm).
Five core boxes of varied quality fine grained sandstone. It is wise to
estimate two or more values of each Q-parameter for each box e.g. Box 3:
(60, 80)/(6, 9) etc. for RQDlJn etc. Record in histogram format.
Example of field logging of borehole is weathered granite (Note two
observations of each Q-parameter for each box)
When RQD=O, for example in a crushed zone, record nominal value of

RQD= 1 when calculating the Q-value.
Core discing caused by high, anisotropic stress at 900m depth.
Ignore discing, record RQD= 1000/0,but evaluate possible SRF > 1 for the
tunnels.
The possible reasons for core discing in the small boreholes help in the
evaluation of potential stress-induced slabbing at tunnel scale.

5
 ~
NGI

tip to tip :
~t==~=+===~P.i==sj;C===~qt====+~~===~~h==:::;+JL.::c.entre I line
fully circulor x

-
o

centre line
-_._-
I----!------I--- zer 0 ----+----; fu lIy c ir cu 1or ><

Figure 10. Recommended method of recording RQD (centre line lengths) in

jointed drill core.
 ,-0 .~. ," . ~~.. -;0

~
.,
...-
~

tLI j-
~ };
~.
'1.,
5-
.. ,
7

., I
.j

,
~ I

1 .~

r
\
f .
.~
.
.--..
;
-.::l ".

.- ~

y
~
'k ..

Figure 25. Column-defining joint in lower colonnade, Rocky Coulee Flow,

RRL-2. J r ranges through .1.0 - 1.5 - 2.0.
54
 o

~
NGI

A-~~c.-:-r-t~:T-'~. IJ/z w-
....... ~

\_'~M-->\
100
""", "- I'
/1\ I
90
-, I'I \

~
~
I 1\ I
I \
75
" II
\
\ ~
" \
I'r{
I 1'\
\
\ \
o
o
n:::
50 1\ \
1\ y
vr- ROD=115-3.3Jv

I 1\ ~( ~

I I
I
I
\
\
\\
\
\ \
25
Ij \ \

I \ I'

a
1 2 3 6
I 10 20 30
\
I

60
VOLUMETRIC JOINT COUNT (Jvl no. 1m3

massive large medium-size small very smal I

blocks blocks blocks blocks blocks

Figure 11. Approximate relationship between RQD and volumetric joint

count (Palmstrem, 1975)
 100m3
50

10 mJ

If)
5
lJ.J
:l:
::::>
-.J 1 m3
0 1000dmJ
>
500
~
u
0
-.J
ca 100dmJ
lJ.J 50
I-
4:
~
x 10dmJ
0
a::
c,
o, 5
4:

1 drrr'
o.S

O.ld~
0.05
I
I.
G.OldmJ
0.25 0.5 2 3 5 10 30 60 100 200
VOLUMETRIC JOINT COUNT (J vl no./mJ

large medium-size small very small

massive blocks
blocks blocks blocks blocks

Figure 15. Some examples of block volumes in relation to the volumetric

joint count (J ), after Palmstrm (1975).
v
 ~
NGI

. ....
......
..
..
c
'0
o o a Depth ~ '0 DescriptIon
o Tests o
==c 00
t , E (m) 0
<3 N
.- c:: ~
6.,: S~U HY1.rn ~
Suon" p"y. pi"k. >Om<:
brown. medium p->ioed.
lIi"'tly cIuom~ GR."..'iTE.
100 100 100
Medium .~C'Cd joints.
sx
",

,"
loo.17m 75r..bJ RP Fe
100.68111 70(270 E." SmP F.
l00.96m 8lJ/~70 Di RtJ Fe
I.. 101.26m 6IJ/18O zx RP Fe
100 100 100 101.36111 6IJ/310 sx RS Fe
101.4Om 6IJ/310 Di RS Fe
102.47111 7O(2iO E." RP Fe
I- 102.75 7Or..60 Di RU Fe
102.!9m 7Or..bJ E\' RS Fe
IOJ.26m 3lJ{l9Q E." RP F.
100 100 86 IOJ.J2m 80/040 E." RU Fe

:.::'
.:." .
I-.~-
L-iu s. '"
) ~ ~+++ +'-., Modcnltc1y stroog to uron"
brown. pink. some p"y.
~ ~+ medium ~""aine<l.moderately to
<.: .... ~
+ 'I~tlyd=m~ 'TrE.
GR.
L- ~ ~ CloKly 10 me<lium spo~
r- '
, joittlS.
I-
4.8d~ I +:-=. 103.5Om 8lJ/04lJ E." RP C
13/0
I: ,.....-+" / 103.13m 75/310 Di RP F.
Cu:.c; rh+ .-+i 103.8Om SQ/270 E."I RL' C
. ,. 19:<X 80
J291 r.'\'!--- ~Il'~ 104.02m SQf2SQ zx Rt: C
~14/0 _ +~ l04.78m 10 E." RP ~
3.70 ~ lOS.OS", 8lJ E.'.: S",U Fe
.1991 I lOS.09m 70 E." SmP Fe
lOS.26m SQ E." RP Fe
8:00 ,~
+ +
lOS.36ln SQ E" RU Fe
.....- + + IOS.53m 4S E" RP a
:.",.. ,~+ ++ III lOS.57mSQE."Scl'Fe
:..un.::'--' lOS.66 10 E." RP Fe
...... ".- I- ~ / lOS.!9m 20 E.'.:RP Fe
+ + II 106.1Om 45 vx RP a
_ 100.45m 10 E.'.: RP Fe
-.-. ~ 106.6On1 ill v RP C
- ;.:-

100 95 83
+++ l06.78mSQ E.'.: RP a
4.90 11 :/ _ 106.BSm SQ E'i RP Fe
I 107.06m 70 sx RP Cy F
- /
~~
107.1Jm 80/060 vx SmP Fe
19:OC ".-'
ln7F ~ + 107.55m SQ/I40 E'i RP Fe
-, ~""-""-'
'+---+----i/ ~ to:+ + la3.2Om iO('l7O E." S",P C
~ 3.WP Ia3A6m 7O/O'XJ E." RP F.
1991 1a3.64m SQf210 E" SmP F.
I
I- 8:00
100 96 83
l- t"'0~+
~+, +

.+ .
1a3.74m
1a3.8Sm
109.01m
10/190 E."
SQ/07O E:-;
4Or.HJ E."
Smt: re
RP F.
RP Fe
___ ' + 109.13m 25fU;IJ E." RP C
109.3Om 65/070 E." SmP r.
b02...: + 100.34m 40/2SQ E." RS Fe
~
- b3 13113
1!007.~~g~

~l1nr~
. ~~----------~

III F I

Figure 38. Example of typical Hong Kong drill core log showing RQD and
discontinuity spacing.
 ROCK QUALITY PROFILES

0.0 ,-,.........., ---.

'.
. ." .
10.0 '., . ;....+--;.-+---f
: . :. 10.0 t:t=t::::t:d
: :.; .. :.~
. . .'
20.0 ~-+++-I--+---1
'. :.:; 20.0 :: .'
.::
:
,-ooit
'I:'~
30. 0
.:

~:~.--I'+-4--4--+---1
.... .h
30.0 ..: ..' '.. : .;;.
'.:. ::;-
.: .,.;
...:.:j-.=J
..
~.l
40.0 .... :.. :
"" .
50.0 f-.'-f-,,..:f+-+-+--l~
I
~
40.0 ~:
50.0
7~"-
~p
I
-0
40.0
50.0
..
'~h
~-
Q) ..!!!!~
.- .' ~ 60.0 ..:.: ". '.~
.co .' . : .. 1.....
60.0 ....
: .~.:
..
<1l
Q) 60.0 < :~:J
..... ~ (J) .;: .. : .. ' . :.~ (J)
..... :.~~-
.. ~
:
70. 0 f...:..-f-:-.-+--+-+--l~ ~ 70.0 :~: : . '..:.S o ;'9j.
70.0 .... :...
~
.
Q3 ."

co .'. CD .... :..... i.,

80.0 :.' . :-- Q)

o
c:
<1l
..... ".=j~
80.0 .'..:' '.:. ~~ Q)
o
c:
<1l
80.0 .: .'. ~
"::.'-~
90.0 .... ~ Vi
o
90.0 ':'.' .' ': '.:
o
Vi 90.0 ::t~3=1:1
.... -e . ..'c
:... . ." :c. L-...
=::::

. .. = ... 7'b=-
100.0 :... '.:~ 100 .0 :.:.. .... ~'\",
100.0.~n.: ."--.--'---~-. '-
...
.. . :.0....;..;.
..: ,~
11 O.0 ~...,-f. ,........_.+-+-+-+---1 110.0 '. ..';.: .. :: 110.0 :..: .....:r:::..
. ; .. " ..
120.0 :'. 120.0 .... '. 120.0 ::., :> .:~~
.: ==;:) .. :...... ..:....:~ EOH
130.0 I-f-+-+--+-+-+---- 130.0 ~'''"'i. f---f~-+--+---- 130.0 -130.08m
(-117.11 mPO)
140. 0 140.0 1--1--1--1--1
140.0 f-+-+--+--+-+---I ~1---1-+-4-~

150.0 L.........L--L.....J-..J.-.L-.J 150.0L.......l-..l~.....J.....J 150. 0 ~--...L..-l-..J

I II III IV V VI o 20406080100 o 1 2 34
Decomposition ROD Disc. Spacing
(mm)
Grade

1=50,2=300,3=1000,4=3000
 L
~
NGl

,----_ ... --

.'

.
>-'

.
~

---

.
.-

.~
".

I '

100 '-';:;;;;;:;

t t..." ~ ....
'~_ . ..,'
.
~

t'

r
-.'~~: :;:;
~~..............
it g"[ Ii JIIIIIII;a:.a".
.-,;.-.~---?~.
.. .;-

~,~~,,~;
. - - ... .. . . .. .
~<3

~.~~--~,
-
-.~-.---,..-
~ -- - ....- _.
-----
~.
---- .-
- r:> 110

110 !

'~.~
--
,
-- ~-- .. ~ :

Figure 2.18 Selected example of Wss rock in BV2 -2 (Central Sector, 300 inclined hole).
 - ,I
Box I
11f_ 9 - 205 Q (typical range) = O-b - ('4 Q (mean) = 3~
15 - 85 )X( '-S-3)X( '5-1 ) (4-8-0 )X( 2- ( 0-6
( )x( I_I ~
tr- 1'2. , -:-4- j-Z-5 T'r z
V~ FAR ROO %
B
L
a I~~I
[ U/. ~.n ,.1.'L 13 U 18 I~ I~ lIS
16
K
30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 '00
S rnm TWO m 10

I .1

Z
E
S 1 ,
, ,

I n
'"
I~

, t:I
I. .
1.1
II> l,
20 !i 12 9 6 4 2 1 -5

.---
~
T ~ , .. Joint
Ai
N >--
roughness
- leist
I
(cpr) 10 '5 1 15 1-5

2
'I.

3'
favW'ttie

and '--lH-a-f-ll-LS--' r-TH- -FI-US-'

- 1N COArrD UNAllEO
Ja '
I .Of 'Of
.ii1t
L '1. '1 ateratiIl
- least
favw-atie
.J

lZ.h
EX!:. INfLOWS Hilii PRESS
'if
~~
ri~
1a t~

....~
~

,~
I

It,.
I~'''''
,."
-os 1 r(1S
SIIHZI STREss/SllIlIiTH SRF

I~II
2015105 2015105 107-5525 100502010 5 2 ~ 1 25
 KB13, box 9

UJ
r:
r: -
1-2
4--B -
o~ :::
25~!O
OO3~ O~

KB13, box 10
\?)
 j
~

~----.
-
1t
j

.

-
,
I
1
f
---1

j
I
L~"m.
. _
Figure 24. High-angle joint in upper colonnade, Cohassett Flow, RRL-2.
J = 1.5 - 2.0.
r Q ~ too!
-)(
{'~-1..
~-
."

53. '1 1-3

~ ~1-5
-, ?
 A B

(a) Boreholes in "massive" rock.

---
-
~
C

-
A.
.-J
- /
- 1-
-
"' (b) Tunnels in jointed rock.

Figure 29. Comparative scales of boreholes and tunnels in columnar jOinting.

Borehole spalling in cases A and B is likely.f, Tunnel slabbing
is unl ikely in case 0, but 1ikely in case C. ~~I (18').

71 .

.r:: ' . :" .

D. Classification of filled discontinuities

The major source of stability (and defonnability) problems in rock

engineering are clay, siIt, sand or crushed rock in persistent (continuous)
discontinuities. These may be caused by faulting or by weathering, or by
deeper hydrothermal activity. Water transport of fine materials into open
joints is also common.

Filled discontinuities in tunnels will usually be the least favourable

features (causing overbreak and instability) and will therefore determine
JrIJa values.
Residual friction angles of some common pure minerals, clays and sands
(Kenney, 1967, Skempton 1966, Terzaghi and Peck 1967).
Various categories of common filled discontinuities.
ISRM recommended methods of describing the strength of soils and
clays. These may form the weakest "cores" of filled discontinuities.
Some potential consequences of filled discontinuities under excavated
slopes.
Some examples of filling thickness, roughness amplitude and
displacements needed for rock-to-rock contact.
Jr and Ja ratings from the Q-system for describing important features of
filled discontinuities.
Using J/Ja ratio to estimate the frictional strength of different filled
discontinuity categories (O.C.clay = 0 + i, N.C.clay = 0 - i).
Photographs of a) rock wall contact
b) rock wall contact when sheared
c) no rock wall contact
Method for taking into account wall rock quality on either side of the
filled discontinuity when considering tunnel support needs.

6
j 1. Massive minerals: quartz, feldspar, calcite: 0' = 29' _J5
r

2. Micaceous minerals: mica, muscovite, hvdrous-rnica and illite: 0; = 17 0

_26
0

3. Montmorillonitic minerals: Na-, Ca-: 0; = 40

_10
0

......... 10
0-1
...
..
C 0-4
..
: 0-2

SANDS

20 40
10

CLAY FIACTION 2 ", r

Material !fI'deQrees
Loose Dense
Sand, round grains, uniform 27,5 34
Sand, angular grains, well graded 33 45
Sandy gravels 35 50
Silty sand 27-33 3)-34
Inorganic silt 27-30 30-35

Figt.:l ;;.
~aterialer. Etter
~q!:li og Peck.
1J..'erz
--------~. ~
Kenney,
--
Skemoton
~ - og
, -

1. tr ansla tion
2. rotation

21/111/
@ 1. translation
~ 2. rotation

7IIlIl r II

1. translation
@
 6. CONDITION OF DISCONTINUITY FILLING Page 74

fiLLED

DISCONTINUITIES

I
.> ~
IICENTLY DIS'LACED / UNDIS'LACED

CLOSI TO IUIDUAL
1MII.,01.
01 OVII-CONSOLIDATID
0' OI'AT IMltO.TANel
STIIHGTH
WHITH.R NO.MAllY
IS NOT
..

/ ClOSI TO ".A': STIINGTH THIIUOI.

WHITHIR NOIMA\.lT-
(ONSOLlDAlID
IMI'OITAHCI
01 OYII.
IS O' CONSIDII"all

FAUL TS

OrtlN
HYOIO-
THIIMAL
ALUIATION
SHEAR
ZONES

a'YIN
HTDIO"
THIlMAL
ALTE .. TION
C.LAY
MYLONITE
IEDDING
'LANE
SL.,S
~?)
~
CLAY
lANDS

O-C. CLAY
NEAR-SUlFACE
DISCONTINUITIES
CONTAINING
WEATHERING
'RODUCTS
MOSTLY H-(. (LAY
H :? M
HYDaOTHERMALL
ALTERED
fiLLINGS

O-C. CLAY
~

Figure 26. Simplified division of discontinuities into displaced and

undisplaced, normally- and over-consolidated categories,
after Barton (1'73).
 FILlID

DISCONTINUITIES

IICIN'LT ."'LACID UNDII'LACI.

(LOI. to . , " ,.. ClOll '0 'Iac .,., ,. ' OM

'"1,.,0., t , woe.AllY. _ I 'Nil HOI.au, oe 0"'1-
01 o.,.-co ,"" ',. tS MOt co oua., II Of (OtIell . "
Of , P ' CI "OI'AN(1

PAULU 'MIAI ClAT IIOOINO NIAI-IUI.ACI

_n_
10NI' MHONITI 'l ANI
U,,' OIlCONTINUITIIS
CON'AININO
0"'"
.n o .. N"..o- WIAfHIIINO
' , al ' A . 'IOOUCU
.,nl .ftOe.
AUllaUOM
MOlflT ,,-c. HA'

Fit. 19-4 Simplified division of filled discontinuities into displaced and undisolaced . nd
normally and over-consolidated categories.
 International Society for Rock Mechanics

Approx. range of
uniaxial compressive
Grade Description Field identification strength (MPa)

SI Very soft clay Easily penetrated several <0.025

inches by fist
S2 Soft day Easily penetrated several 0.O2~.05
inches by thumb
S3 Firm day Can be penetrated several O.O~.lO
inches by thumb with moder-
ate effort
S4 Stiff clay Readily indented by thumb but 0.10--0.25
penetrated only with great
effort
S5 Very stiff clay Readily indented by thumbnail 0.2~.5O
S6 Hard clay Indented with difficulty by >0.50
thumbnail

RO Extremely Indented by thumbnail 0.25-1.0

weak rod
RI Very weak rod. Crumbles under firm blows 1.0-5.0
with point of geological ham-
mer, can be peeled by a pocket
knife
R2 Weak rod. Can be peeled by a pocket 5.0-25
knife with difficulty, shallow
indentations made by firm
blow with point of geological
hammer
R3 Medium str0Dl Cannot be scraped or peeled 25-50
rod with a pocket knife. specimen
can be fractured with single
firm blow of geological ham-
mer
Strong rod. Specimen requires more than 50-100
one blow of geological hammer
to fracture it
ItS Very strong rock Specimen requires many blows 100-250
of geological hammer to frac-
ture it
1t6 Extremely Specimen can only be chipped >250
strong rod. with geological hammer

Nou: Grades SI to S6 apply to cohesive soils.. for exampk <:Jay$..silty clays. and combinations
of silts and days with sand. generally slow draining. Discontinuity 'Nail strength will generally
be characterized by grades RO-R6 (rod' while SI-S6 (day' 'IlIi1lgenerally apply to filled
discontinuities (see Filling).
Some roundi", of strength values has been made when coverting to S.I units.
Figur 3. Avi~stningseffekter for slepper .

.
~ e

Figur 4. Vegg til Yegg kontakt rned tynne fyllinger

]. rue slepper.
 CD ROUGHNESS AMPLITUDE

~ ! 2
1-- - - - -- - -::---- -::: :-=:----- ::--- ---------- :~--:::..:
-----
0,

f 1
0, 02
Mqan amplitude: 0= -2-

@ FILLING THICKNESS

N-,
'"
~~dH~~
.r?Y?;
~t, ~

MqQnthicknqss; f = f, .'2.')
3
-
@ IDEALIZED SAW,..TOOTH
JOINT --=:::a.

, - '. t d: --.
,
~!
~d " t
tan I

@ IOUGH -UNDULATING Ex~~p~

TENSION JOINT
0. it == 10 ~~
./' V { = 5"
f d
(f/o) l-
110\11I\

) 1,000
0-750
Q)

./
~
f/
,/A. ::
_05
0500
0-250
2'34 a
1,320
0-430
.t
V
0 0 V ~ ::/-3
0'. I'll 1 2"
(d/o)
.: ~: 13 ~M

'..-n.
s i
mm 1
f.0-50.

f -n.

Displacements needed to achieve rock asperity contact when shearing of the

( filled discontiuity involves no volume change_
 3.- Joint-roughness number~.,: _. . .,' : J,
.) Rock-w.' cootsct; md b) roclc-w.' contsot b.for. 10em "".r
A Discontinuous joints 4
B Rough or irregular, undulating 3
C Smooth, undulating 2
D Slickensided, undulating 1.5
E Rough or irregular, planar 1.5
F Smooth, planar 1.0
G Slickensided, planar 0.5
Note: j) Descriptions refer to smaD scale features, and intermediate
scale feab.r'es, In that order.

e) No roc/c-w.' cont.ct ""." "".rtHl

H Zone containing day minerals thick 1.0
enough to prevent rock-wall contact
J Sandy, gravelly or crushed zone thick 1.0
enough to prevent rock-wall contact

Note: i) Add to
If the mean spacing of the reievent joint set is greater
than 3m.
ii) Jr 0.5 can be used for planar slickensided joints having
lineations, provided the lineations are oriented for minimum
strength.
I 4t':Joint alteration number -" .' 0, J.
~:~~';;,;" . '.. approx
.J Rock-"," com.ct ho nWItnI ~ only CNtng.)
A Tightly healed hard non-softening, impermeable 0.75
filing, Le., Quarts or epidote
B Unaltered joint walls, surface staining only 25-35" 1.0
C S~ghtty altered joint walls. Non-softening mineral 25-30" 2.0
coatings, sandy particles, clay-free disintegrated
rock, etc.
D Silty- or sandy-clay coatings, small clay fraction 20-25" 3.0
(non-softening)
E Softening or low friction clay mineral coatings, Le., 8-16" 4.0
kaolinite or mica. Also chlorite, talc, gypsum,
graphite, etc., and small quantities of swelling
ctays.

b) Rock-w" cootect before 10em shellf' (thinminerlll fillings)

F Sandy particles, clay-free disintegrated rock, etc. 25-30" 4.0
G Strongly over-consolidated non-softening clay 16-24 6.0
mineral fillings (continuous, but <5mm thickness)
H Medium or low over-consolidation, softening, clay 12-16" 8.0
mineral fillings (continuous, but <5mm thickness)
J Swelling-clay fillings, i.e., montmorillonite 6-12" 8-12
(continuous, but <5mm thickness). Value of Ja
depends on percent of swelling clay-size particles,
and access to water, etc.

e) No rock contM:t, ""." "".rtHl (thickrnintnI ,.;,g.)

K} Zone. 0< bands of disintegrated or crushed rock 6-24" 6,8, or
L and clay (see G,H,J for description of clay 8-12
M condition)
N Zones or bands of silty- or sandy-clay, small clay 5.0
fraction (non-softening)
o}Thick, continuous zones or bands of clay . 6-24" 10,13,or
r:
~ (see G, H,J for description of clay condition) 13-20

/'

r:

/"
 ') ) ), ') ) )
.I /(

d) 6)
~O(K
o
Cf.AoY
~
r ()
{I r ~

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(a) Rock wall contact Jr tan -1 (Jrl Ja)O ~ 1~'nc~~ Cotl.t IA.~
~
...'-'-
'" # ~~,., ~ ")~~!'Oo.T~'
... .,,~
"",.4c
\: ". Ja = 0,75 i.o 234

A. Discontinuous joints 4 790 760 630 530 45

B. Rough, undulating 3 76 720 56 45 7
C. Smooth, undulating 2 69 63 450 340 270
D. Slickensided, undulating 1.5 630 560 370 270 210
E. Rough, planar 1.5 63 56 370 27 21
F. Smooth, planar 1.0 53 45 27 18 140
G. Slickensided, planar 0.5 340 27 14 9.5 7.10

(b) Rock wall contact Jr . tan -1 (jrl Ja)O ~ ~A ~~~ -fi{( ,~~S
~ when sheared
:Q'''~r''
,..... \\ ".... ~ ~ ~ .. ::
Ja=4 6 8 12
~

A. Discontinuous joints 4 450 340 270 180

B. Rough, undulating 3 370 270 210 140
C. Smooth, undulating 2 270 180 140 9.50
D. Slickensided, undulating 1.5 210 140 11 7.10
E. Rough, planar 1.5 210 140 110 7.1
F. Smooth, planar 1.0 140 9.5 7.10 4.70
G. Slickensided, planar 0.5 70 4.70 3.6 204
~
NGI
 METHOD OF ESTIMATING a (MEAN) FOR WEAKNESS ZONES

log am = b log 10 a z + log 10 a r

b +1

mean a - value for zone and side rock

= a - value of weakness zone
= a - value of adjacent rock
breadth of weakness zone (in metres)

Select breadth
Use 1b for zone I tunnel axis intersection angles 90 - 45
Use 2b for zone I tunnel axis intersection angles 45 - 20
Use 3b for zone I tunnel axis intersection angles 20 - 10
Use 4b for zone I tunnel axis intersection angles < 10

Example assumptions

Assume Oz = 0.01 for a 2 m wide zone and 0r= 1.0 or 10 for the adjacent rock mass.
An intersection angle of 30 with the tunnel axis will also be assumed.
We therefore have the following two cases:

Sketch of situation
az = 0.01

0=10
r

a
m
= 0.025 am = 0.04

Calculation
4 log10 (0.01) + log 10(1.0)
log am = 4+1
.'. am = 0.025 (poor quality adjacent rock)

410g10 (0.01) + log 10 (10)

ar = 10 log am = 4 + 1

.'. am = 0.040 (good quality adjacent rock)

Report No. F"tgU,. No.

HALLANDSAs TUNNELS 921069 23
Drawn by Date
JU.;B 1H.03.24

Design of support for weakness zones Checked vl/3

( After Laset, 1990)
Approved ~
NGI
E. Inter-relationship between RMR and Q

Although there are differences between RMR and Q, the two systems have
some degree of common ground and can both be used together, but with
caution.

Bieniawski (1976), Jethwa et a1. (1982) and Barton (1995) comparisons

between Q and RMR estimates for some case records.
Goel et a1. (1996) comparison ofRMR-Q and RCR-N.
NGI (1994) Q-RMR comparison for three deep boreholes in England.
Graphic depth log of Q and Rlvffi., 540-1150m depth, for each 3m of core.
Q-RMR-RQD log for tunnel site in sandstone, Japan Highways (1990's).
Illustration of combined use of RMR and Q for improved estimation of
rockmass deformation modulus (M), Barton 1995.
Illustration of combined use of RMR and Q when estimating approximate
tunnel support needs.
Illustration of combined use of RMR and Q when evaluating stand-up
time for different length of tunnel advances.
Inter-relationship between RQD, F m", V p, Edyn and Q (Sjogren et a1.
1979, Barton 1995).

7
) ) ) ) ) ) ) )

EXC. POOR EXTREMELY

POOR VERY POOR
POOR I FAIR IGOOD IGOOD
VERY/ EXT.
GOOD
I EXC.
GOOD
100 I I 1 I I I I I _ '> .L
>-
a:
80 w

a
o
a: o
::e o
a: 60 +

a
-
c
as
a:
CI) 40
c(
LL.
a:

CI)
as .0
:s
~-
a:
.x o
o o
o a.
a: 20
o
o
a.

O
0.001
I.. /1
I 1
AMA

1
= 9 In Q+44

1
I >-
0:
~ ,
0.01 0.1 1 10 100 1000
Rock Mass QU8Imy - a

~

~

NGt
 GaEL et af.: TECHNICAL NOTE

100 ~--------------------------------17~~~
Case histories
+ Indian
2 80 o Scandinavia. U.S.A. [2.3]
~
IX U.K. (8) 0
'-'

-'-
co
<I)
~ 40 ~----~~~~~~~~~~~~-------+----~
E
~c.> CDO

~ 20 ~~--~~~~~~----~-----4-------+----~
0-'ct~
O~ ~~~-L -J ~ ~
"qs~
0.001 0.01 0.10 10 100 1000
Rock mass quality (Q)
Fig. 1. Correlation between RMR and Q (after Goel [9]).

10
Case histories
60 + Indian
o Scandinavia [2]
SO
U.K. [8]

IX 40
U
IX
30
20

to
0
0.01 0.1 10 100
Rock mass No. (N)
Fig. 2. Correlation between RCR and N (after Gael [9]).
 .>. ~
10
r> NG.
+ +i0
++ + ~++*
-+1+
1L*+~~+~ .t + +
+
+
" ~+~ + ++ + +

.r:
+ +t ++ + +
~~
++++

+ + + +
+
+ +
.~ +
+ IRMR = 5.50 In (Q) + 52.7
+ +
+ IRMA = 12.66 log (0) + 52.7
+ Borehole RCF1
(559-1150m)
20
0.01 0.1 I 10 100 1980
Q-value

eo
~
/"
'"

+ + +
tiY
l-fi t
+
++
+
:{~ +
+
+
*
+

~+
+*++
'*' + + ./ + -t!i-++ +
+
+
++ ++ +
~ + + ++

+ + RMR = 5.49 In (0) + 02~5

+ '*'
RMR = 12.64 log (0) + 52.5
+
+ Borehole RCF3
1/525-990m)
20
o.el 0.1 I 10 100 1000
Q-value

+
to

~
::S70
~
cO

~
-
c::
.-
ell

__ 50
IiO

--ce
::s
oW
(,)40
0
~ +
30
+ +

20
r' 0.01 0.1 1 \0 \00 1000
Q-value
r--

Figure 3.23 Q-RMR relationships from logging RCF!, RCF2 and

RCF3, and best fit for all three RCF holes logging, BVG
onlv 'ALI:.I /ULj
Q-value Rock Mass Rating, RMR
~ s ~ E ~ ~
 -X-IIIII8 -,- 11II11
2t 40 II 80 100 0 10 40 00 100
..
80

( )
Uc:.l (m) QI(:)
0 2t 40 II 80 100 0 ZO 40 60 80 100
i
1 ,
J
I

l~
2 I !
I
t
3 II !
~
5
6
I ~~ ~ II I ~~
8
7
I I
8
7

9 D 9
10 10
11
12
~
+ II 11
12
13
13
14 I
I
14
15 =I I 15
16 16
17 17
18L 18
191 19
20F 20

;;[r
21 21
22
23
24L 24
251- 25

;~t I ,
26
27
28 j I
28
29 Cl 29
30 E I
30
31
.~ 32
31~ 32
33 33
I 3~ 34

35
U1 35
w 36 r 36

... 37
38 F 37
38

*
-a
t~l
39
~o
~1

~3
.39
40
41
42
43
~ ~4 44
I ~5 45
~6 46
C ~i 47
~ ~8 48
..:t 411 49
... 50 50
51 51
e 52
53
52
53
;0 54 54
0 55
56 F 55
56
0
('r
57
58
59L
E 57
58
59
;0 60 60
s: 61
62
61
62
;0 63 63
6~ 64
65 65
0 66 66
f,J 67 67
68 68
e 69
~ 70
7I
70
71
R 72 72
~ "~
73
74
73
74
75 75
75 75
77 77
78 78
79 79
80 80
81 81
82 82
83 83
84 84
85 85
85 85
87 87
88 88
89 89
90 90
91 91
92 112
113 113
94 94
95 95
515 96l r::::lc"
97 97

..
98 98
951 911t
~::::: I t '" W !

QOOI CDI 0.1 1 IO ICO 001 QI 1 10 co

Q - - Q II --.--

') ) ) ) '1 )1 1 ) '\ \ ) \ '1 \ ') ') \ ) ) ') ') ') '\ 1 ') ') ') 1 1 '\ 1 1 ') 1 ') 1 '1 '1 ') '1 '\ 1 ") 1 '\ '\ \ )

I
I Compromise RMR = 15 log Q + 50
I
I "

90 I

-
~ 80
I I I I I I
(!J
';'" 70
M =2 RMR-100
//'
~
i'-- ~ 1/
60 ......

+fl ,-.-'.1 M --10 a

iii
:l 1fJ
:; ~ r--.-.
"8 50 ......

E VI
c 40
- 30
.Q
;: 1/
~
.2 +
20 ~ of ~ Case histories: _
M=10~
y
Q)
Cl
r-, 0 ___ ~
~ + Bieniawski,
o Serafim
1978

10
I
~
,
u' ~< ~t , and Pereira. 1983

, , , I

10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
Geomechanics rock mass rating (RMR)

I I I I , I I ...
0.001 0.01 0.1 1.0 10 100 1000
Q rating

8..t.~(1fY~~
---NG'
') ) I "1 ') J I . 1 ') ) 1 J \

AE'Pf<OX R.~{< I.V'~ o..H~l_ . (<.~ 1<' ~ 15 <O~I" ~ 1- 50

2.0 35 f() 'S
ROCK MASS CLASSIFICATION
ROCK CLASSES
E I D I C B I A
Very I Very Ext. Exc.
Poor I Fair Good
poor good good good
20
...... ..
:l .:-:-:-:.;.:-:
,;.:-,.
:-,';
.;+:- .;~.;
:X:U:U:I b:1
II 2-
....
0'
7 erg
Er
5 Er
8
()'
3 ""
rn~
2.4 II
...
0
2 1.5

1
0.001 0.004 0.01 0.04 0.1 0.4 1 4 10 40 100 400 1000
Rock mass quality Q =~ x l!:..x k.
In Ja SRF

REINFORCEMENT CATEGORIES: 5) Fibre reinforced shotcrete and bolting, 5-9 em, Sfr+ B
1) Unsupported 6) Fibre reinforced shotcrete and bolting, 9-12 em, Sfr+ B
2) Spot bolting, sb 7) Fibre reinforced shotcrete and bolting, 12-15 em, Sfr+ B
3) Systematic bolting, B 8) Fibre reinforced shotcrete > 15 em,
4) Systematic bolting, reinforced ribs of sbotcrete and bolting, Srr,RRS+ B
(and unreinforeed shotcrete, 4-lO em), B( + S) 9) Cast concrete lining, CCA

, ~

NGI
r>

ld lwk lmo lyr lOyr

r- 30

r'
20
-
Aff~)c Q
r' WUII\
E 1'44 ~ ~ 'S{.~Q
/"' c: +So
CU
Q.
4

-
en
r'

r:
0
3
RMR
0
r- a:: 2 ~Q

10 1 102 103

Stand-up Time, hrs

ld lwk lmo lyr lOyr

30

20
! I
! 80
I
-----r---'\
r-
10
8
----- .. /'
--~;.~~~---
v
~J'6(/ \.
\.
~
" \. \. A
\ -,
-,
-,
AA

E ------ vi- <>: /' -, n .~-

r: 6
~\
'... -,
c:
cu
a.
5
4
./
/\.
-, C "\ -, -, \..
\

-
!
(/)
3 20/ \ ~"""80 ;

I
r>
0
0
a: 2
!~
\
D J'\ /~ 100""-1
r-
~~ ,t() , \ I
l-
I-
E \ ", 40 '
1'\. I ,I
h.
. - - . Tn M Classes
I
-
-
.......

---- T20-,
I
"- --_.----- --_._-_. __ i -_
..,.... ... --_ ...._-
i
./ O-{) 1\.1 !

I' ! i
!

10 102 103
Stand-up Time, hrs

figure 2. Stand-up time and roof span as a function of RMR. (Bieniawski, 1989
and Lauffer, 1988) Approximate Q valuesadded by the author.

r:
\
 ,.
"'

.- ROD
I Very poor
I Poor
I Fair
I Good
I ~~~~I-I

0 10 20 30 40 ,
50 60 70 80 90 , %
100
I ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !
I
.

SJ'cp~l'tr\ _ F 20 , 14
! ,
10.2 ,
6.7 , 3.4,
4.4 Cracks
per meter
et 01 ({IfT'l)
s ,
5 7
! ,
10 15
!
23
I ,
29
Mean core
length in em

Vp 3000 4000 50?0 15~001

I ~ I ~ m/s

(
Edyn 18.0, 22.7
I
,
30.3 39.7
I
51.3 63.5
I I
GPa
-'
.--
0
Fair
Very Ex.
Very poor Poor Good good
good
Ba.k~ - 0.1 0.32 I!:QJ 3.2 +0 ~1000
~
(!q~S)

Q SCALE SHIFTS TO THE RIGHT WITH INCREASING DEPTH

-

-.... [L1
e.W4
r NGI