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Geomechanical characterization and analysis of the effects of rock massif in Zaruma City, Ecuador

Abstract:

Mining as an industrial activity requires a comprehensive study of all its implications to develop it in a sustainable environment, not only the environmental section but a network with industrial safety, risk studies, aquifer protection and even the development of cities. Informal mining activity occurring in Zaruma city, Ecuador Cultural Heritage, it has generated affectations in the rock mass located below the village, subjecting people and infrastructure to constant risks. The aim of the present project is to evaluate the stability of the massif by the geomechanical characterization and valuation of the existing stability conditions, which allow the delineation of prevention and control strategies according to the security of the citizens. The methodology for this work is performed through i) Configuration of the stability problem in the urban center of Zaruma, ii) Geomechanical characterization based on the physical and mechanical properties of the rocks such as the degree of fracturing, Rock Quality Designation (RQD), Index Geology of Resistance (GSI) and degree of deterioration of the massif, iii) Analysis of the main effects of the massif considering natural aspects and mining works, iv) Evaluation of stability conditions using the RMR of Bieniawski and Laubscher criteria in their classification (MRMR), with the establishment of prevention and control measures. From the analysis performed, it can be affirmed that the rock mass of the study sector presents MRMR values were between 26 and 64 corresponding to a fair-poor classification of the massif, representing potential instability conditions, considering also the occurrence of possible affectations that worsen with the passing of time, which makes it possible to recommend lines of control and prevention that must be applied urgently.