Base friction testing methodology for the deformation of rock masses caused by mining in an open-pit slope

Mining in an open-pit slope results in the deformation and instability of rock masses. Correspondingly, it is difficult to quantify the range of internal rock mass damage completely. In this study, a base friction testing method is proposed for the analysis of mining models in an open-pit slope, and new methodology is proposed which combines digital image correlation (DIC) and particle image velocimetry (PIV) techniques to analyze the entire deformation process. A series of base friction tests is performed to reveal the deformation mechanism of the mining model in an open-pit slope, and findings are compared with those obtained from a mining model without an open-pit slope. The test results showed two different types of damage: staged parabolic-like and progressive trapezoidal-like damages. Moreover, the proposed methodology can obtain the entire displacement and velocity vector distributions (from deformation to damage) inside the slope and convert it into data for visualization. This provides a reference for the evaluation and control of field open-pit slopes in similar conditions.

Automated summary

Mining in an open-pit slope can cause deformation and instability of rock masses, and it is challenging to accurately quantify the damage. In this study, a base friction testing method is proposed to analyze mining models in an open-pit slope, and a new methodology combining DIC and PIV techniques is introduced to analyze the entire deformation process. The test results reveal two types of damage: staged parabolic-like and progressive trapezoidal-like damages, and the proposed methodology provides a reference for the evaluation and control of open-pit slopes in similar conditions.