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Excavatability assessment of rock masses using the Geological Strength Index (GSI)

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Abstract

In the present study a new classification method for the assessment of ease of excavation of rock masses is proposed, based on the Geological Strength Index and the point load strength of the intact rock. The data originate from excavation sites in Greece in sedimentary and metamorphic rock masses. A wide variety of rock structures were considered, ranging from blocky to disintegrated, and different excavation methods have been used (blasting, hydraulic breaking, ripping and digging). The proposed method cannot be applied to heterogeneous rock masses and soft rocks/hard soils.

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Acknowledgments

The contribution of Athanasiou J., Makrinikas A. and Zalachoris G., graduate students of the Geotechnical Engineering Department, NTUA in the fieldwork is gratefully acknowledged.

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  1. Geotechnical Engineering Department, School of Civil Engineering, National Technical University of Athens, 9 Iroon Polytechniou str., 157 80, Athens, Greece

    G. Tsiambaos & H. Saroglou

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  1. G. Tsiambaos
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  2. H. Saroglou
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Correspondence to G. Tsiambaos.

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Tsiambaos, G., Saroglou, H. Excavatability assessment of rock masses using the Geological Strength Index (GSI). Bull Eng Geol Environ 69, 13–27 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10064-009-0235-9

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10064-009-0235-9

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