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    Geological Strength Index

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    achieng.omondi2

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    Geological Strength Index

    Uploaded by

    achieng.omondi2
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    GEOLOGICAL STRENGTH INDEX

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    7 views3 pages

    Geological Strength Index

    Uploaded by

    achieng.omondi2

    Copyright:

    © All Rights Reserved
    Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online from Scribd
    Download as docx, pdf, or txt
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    Assignment

    GEOLOGICAL STRENGTH INDEX

    NAME: CINDY ACHIENG’

    REG. NO: ENM231-0094/2020

    UNIT CODE: EMM2307

    UNIT TITLE: ROCK MECHANICS 2

    15-03-2024
    INTRODUCTION

    The Geological Strength Index (GSI) is a system of rock mass characterization that has been
    developed in engineering rock mechanics to meet the need for reliable input data related to rock
    mass properties required as input for numerical analysis or closed-form solutions for designing
    tunnels, slopes, or foundations.

    The GSI system concentrates on the description of two factors;

    1. Rock structure- refers to the inherent characteristics of the rock, like its type and
    presence of discontinuities.
    2. Block surface conditions-assesses the state of the discontinuity surfaces within the rock
    mass. Are they rough and interlocking ,or smooth and filled with weathered material?

    By considering this aspects, GSI provides an estimate of the overall strength reduction that
    occurs when solid rock transforms into a jointed rock mass.

    HOW GSI WORKS

    It does not involve complex calculations, instead, it relies on a visual chart that considers the
    rock structure and discontinuity surface conditions. Based on these observations, a numerical
    value between 1(very weak rock mass) and 100(very strong rock mass) is assigned to the GSI.

    APPLICATIONS OF GSI CLASSIFICATION

    1. Evaluating weak and heavily jointed rock masses especially where other classification
    systems might struggle.
    2. Designing underground structures like tunnels, caverns and foundations since it allows
    for the understanding of rock mass’ strength and deformability.
    3. Estimating rock mass properties like the generalized Hoek-Brown constants, deformation
    modulus and strength properties.
    4. It also is useful in analyzing slope stability
    ADVANTAGES

    1. It can be used for a broad range of rock mass qualities, from weak to very strong.
    2. It is simple and practical as it relies on visual assessment of the rock mass, making it a
    field-friendly tool for engineers.
    3. The GSI value serves as a vital input parameter for the Hoek-Brown failure criterion,
    which helps determine the rock mass’ strength and deformation characteristics.

    DISADVANTAGES

    1. The GSI value is based on visual judgement, which can introduce some subjectivity
    depending on the experience of the assessor.
    2. GSI should be used in conjunction with, not as a replacement for, the inherent strength of
    the intact rock itself.
    3. The GSI system assumes randomly oriented discontinuities for a homogenous isotropic
    mass behaviour, which might not always be then case in reality.
    4. GSI primarily focuses on peak strength and doesn’t provide guidance for estimating
    residual strength, which is important in some scenarios.

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