Usability of RQD and Jv for prediction of block volume in natural stone quarries

Abstract

In this study, use of Rock Quality Designation (RQD) and Volumetric Joint Count (Jv) parameters for prediction of block volume from Harşit Granitoid exposed in Dogankent (Giresun) area, was investigated. For this purpose, a quarry was chosen as the study area and properties of discontinuities were determined by performing scan-line surveys on the pit slopes. In prediction of block volume from Harşit Granitoid, Vb which is an input parameter of Rock Mass Index (RMi) system, was used. Jv and RQD variables used for predicting Vb value were defined from the discontinuity spacing measurements performed on different slopes within the quarry. When considering the Block Shape Factor (?), the blocks can be generally classified as "compact, slightly long-flat" shaped. Due to some constrains of RQD, use of Jv values is more effective for predicting block volume. It was concluded that, the average producible block volume from Harşit Granitoid was determined to be Vb= 7.15 m3 and this value is within the range of the economically producable block volume.