Geomechanics Core Logging Validation – Study Case Córrego Do Sítio Mine Available to Purchase

The classification systems are generally used to quantify and qualify the characteristics of the rock mass, defining its main characteristics and enabling the creation of computer models. Computer models usually are based on the Rock Mass Rating (RMR) Classification. One of the parameters used to calculate the RMR is the value of the Rock Quality Design (RQD). To validate the reliability of the description of the holes, the results of RQD and spacing described were compared with the expected results. The points that were distanced of the expected results in the validation plots are those with inconsistent values for the RQD or the spacing between the discontinuities. To check this points some verification were made, when possible, by photos or by a detailed analysis of the data set to identify possible inconsistencies. This validation supports the geomechanical models that are used in the Córrego do Sítio Mine from AngloGold Ashanti.

For geotechnical classification, characteristics such as spacing, material strength, roughness, aperture, persistence, fill and degree of alteration are quantified (Ávila & Lana, 2014). Using the data collected in the field mappings and in the hole descriptions are made the geotechnical models.

The Rock Quality Designation (RQD), Rock Mass Rating (RMR) and Q System are used to quantify the characteristics of the rock mass, defining its quality and allowing the creation of a block model with the geotechnical characteristics. In this study, the RQD data were analyzed to validate their parameters.