Utilizing a Geomechanical Classification to Preliminary Analysis of Rock Slope Stability Along Roadway D340- 41.42, Southwest of Turkey: A Case Study

Abstract

Road construction is mostly passed through mountainous regions or hilly terrains in Turkey like in all world. In hence, roadway construction and widening are being constructed through blasting and excavation, leading to rock slope instabilities and failures then poses threats to life and property. The reasons for failure sometime after construction are likely due to the deterioration of rock masses in cut slopes. However, slope instability and failures mainly occur due to adverse slope geomorphological complexities, joint discontinuities, weathering, man-made activities, unloading; and several induced factors such as seasonal heavy rainfall events, snow coverage, etc. The objectives of this paper are therefore to identify the most significant parameters influencing the behavior of cut slope rock masses with employing SMR ,and to perform a preliminary slope instability assessment along roadway D340-41.42, southwest of Turkey, where slopes located in a region of Taurus's rugged terrains with known complex geometry, then propose a suitable control measures to mitigate potential failures of rock slope stability. In this study, 19 rock cuts are selected based on the observed failure mechanisms, slope geometry and materials. A systematic site investigation incorporating relevant engineering geological and geotechnical parameters were carried out in detail. Based on slope instability observations and SMR results rating, concluded that these slopes were widely controlled by discontinuities (structurally controlled failures). As well, SMR classification scheme was successfully used for failure classification in Taurus's terrains. Finally, slope flattening with various angles method, wire mesh, toe support by detached rock blocks and drainage ditches redesign are proposed as a remedial measurement to protect road slope stability from failure.