Abstract:The Hoek -Brown criterion parameters (ı ci , m i and s) are significantly influenced by the strength anisotropy of intact rock. In the present study, the criterion was modified by incorporating a new parameter (kȕ), to account for the effect of strength anisotropy, thus being able to determine the strength of intact anisotropic rock under loading in different orientations of the plane of anisotropy. The range of the parameter (k ȕ ) for the rocks tested has been analytically investigated by carrying out triaxial tests, in different orientations of the foliation plane. The proposed modification was studied for metamorphic rocks (gneiss, schist, marble), but could also be applied to other rock types exhibiting "inherent" anisotropy, e.g. sedimentary as well as igneous rocks. The proposed modified criterion is intended for use for prediction of strength of intact rock, but can also be extended to rock masses.
Abstract. The paper presents the kinematics of rock instability of a high limestone promontory, where the Monemvasia historical site is situated, in Peloponnese in Southern Greece. The instability phenomena poses a significant threat to the town located at the base of the slope. Rockfall episodes occurred in the past due to the relaxation of the high cliff, whereas significant undermining of the castle frontiers has been observed at the slope crest.The predominant types of instability are of planar, wedge and toppling failure of medium to large blocks. In order to investigate the existing stability conditions and decide upon the protection measures, stability and rockfall analyses were carried out for numerous slope sections under different loading conditions and protection measures were suggested.A rock-fall risk rating system is proposed, which is based on morphological and structural criteria of the rock mass and on vulnerability and consequences. The rating system is applied for individual sections along the slope and a risk map was produced, which depicted areas having different degree of risk against rockfall occurrences.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.