• Journal of Korean Tunnelling and Underground Space Association
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• v.18 no.4
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• pp.341-354
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• 2016

This article is to apply the tunnel support system selected after comparatively analyzing of RMR and tunnel instrumentation between the tunnel behavior characteristic predicted through geotechnical investigations and the numerical analysis at the design stage and the properties deformation occurred at the construction stage. This attempt results from the behavior characteristic of the tunnel excavation ground shown differently in accordance with the ground quality and reinforcement method. This, therefore, provide the data and results analysed the actual decision RMR-crown settlement & convergence and reduction of material property of ground as parameters. Also, it's shown that the tunnel designer is able to predict tunnel behavior characteristic when designing in bedrock areas excessively distributed faults and fractured zones.

• Tunnel and Underground Space
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• v.16 no.3 s.62
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• pp.203-208
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• 2006

This report is to introduce an article to compare 3 kinds of methods as RMR, Q-system and RMi published in Tunnel and Tunnelling Technology 2003. As rock mass classification is applied to estimate the amount of the support as an empirical design method, an attempt has been made to evaluate the parameters for classifications and their variations by Professor Nilsen and his team in Norway. Representability and reproducibility in measuring the field parameters are discussed and sensitivity of rating values in the three methods is also analyzed in this research. Although some parameters have high variation in rating among the 5 observers, the rock mass class has been found to be quite similar.

• Journal of the Korean Geotechnical Society
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• v.21 no.3
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• pp.19-25
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• 2005

A tunnel that uses the RMR method or the Q-system is called a 'modem tunnel' because the New Austrian Tunneling Method (NATM) is not employed, even though shotcrete and rock bolts are used as support. It is known that the modem tunnel, which is supported by shotcrete, is basically different from the conventional tunnel, which is supported by steel ribs. In order to preserve the load-carrying capacity of the rock mass, loosening and excessive rock deformations must be minimized. Although it is known that this can be achieved by applying shotcrete in the case of the modem tunnel, this has not been clearly demonstrated. In order to inspect the distinctions between the conventional tunnel and the modern tunnel, their support characteristics and the rock loads of the rock mass classifications are compared. Terzaghi's rock load classification was used as the conventional tunnel's representative rock mass classification. The RMR method and the Q-system were adopted as the modem tunnel's representative rock mass classification. The study's results show that the load-carrying capacity of shotcrete, when used as the main support in the modern tunnel, is greater than the load-capacity of the steel ribs used in the conventional tunnel. Because it has been verified that the rock loads of their rock mass classifications are not different, then, according to the rock mass classifications, the load-carrying capacity of the rock mass of the modern tunnel, which uses shotcrete, is not greater than that of the conventional tunnel.

• Journal of the Korean Geotechnical Society
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• v.24 no.5
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• pp.65-78
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• 2008

In case of cut-slopes or shallow-depth tunnels, sliding along with discontinuities or rotation could play a critical role in judging stability. Although numerical analysis is widely used to check the stability of these cut-slopes and shallow-depth tunnels in early design process, common analysis programs are based on continuum model. Performing continuum model analysis regarding discontinuities is possible by reducing overall strength of jointed rock mass. It is also possible by applying ubiquitous joint model to Mohr-Coulomb failure criteria. In numerical analysis of cut-slope, main geotechnical properties such as cohesion, friction angle and elastic modulus can be evaluated by empirical equations. This study tried to compare two main systems, RMR and GSI system by applying them to in-situ hazardous cut-slopes. In addition, this study applied ubiquitous joint model to simulation model with inputs derived by RMR and GSI system to compare with displacements obtained by in-situ monitoring. To sum up, numerical analysis mixed with GSI inputs and ubiquitous joint model proved to provide most reliable results which were similar to actual displacements and their patterns.

• Geotechnical Engineering
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• v.14 no.1
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• pp.29-36
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• 1998

The application of a multiple rock classification method, which is a generalization of a binary rock classification, is studied in this paper. In particular, this paper shows how to incorporate qualitative data through a case study. The method suggested in this paper can be effectively used for a systematic multiple rock classification such as RMR system developed by Bieniawski. It will be very useful for rock classifications. In addition, it is known that the expected cost of errors can be atopted to indicate how well a investigation plan is made.

• Geomechanics and Engineering
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• v.35 no.5
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• pp.539-554
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• 2023

This article is dedicated to the pursuit of establishing a robust empirical relationship that allows for the estimation of in-situ modulus of deformations (E_m and G_m) within sedimentary rock slope masses through the utilization of Q_slope values. To achieve this significant objective, an expansive and thorough methodology is employed, encompassing a comprehensive field survey, meticulous sample collection, and rigorous laboratory testing. The study sources a total of 26 specimens from five distinct locations within the South Pars (known as Assalouyeh) region, ensuring a representative dataset for robust correlations. The results of this extensive analysis reveal compelling empirical connections between E_m, geomechanical characteristics of the rock mass, and the calculated Q_slope values. Specifically, these relationships are expressed as follows: E_m = 2.859 Q_slope + 4.628 (R² = 0.554), and G_m = 1.856 Q_slope + 3.008 (R² = 0.524). Moreover, the study unravels intriguing insights into the interplay between in-situ deformation moduli and the widely utilized Rock Mass Rating (RMR) computations, leading to the formulation of equations that facilitate predictions: RMR = 18.12 E_m0.460 (R² = 0.798) and RMR = 22.09 G_m0.460 (R² = 0.766). Beyond these correlations, the study delves into the intricate relationship between RMR and Rock Quality Designation (RQD) with Qslope values. The findings elucidate the following relationships: RMR = 34.05e^0.33Qslope (R² = 0.712) and RQD = 31.42e^0.549Qslope (R² = 0.902). Furthermore, leveraging the insights garnered from this comprehensive analysis, the study offers an empirically derived support system tailored to the distinct characteristics of discontinuous rock slopes, grounded firmly within the framework of the Q_slope methodology. This holistic approach contributes significantly to advancing the understanding of sedimentary rock slope stability and provides valuable tools for informed engineering decisions.

• Tunnel and Underground Space
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• v.13 no.6
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• pp.421-433
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• 2003

Demand for limestone production from both the underground and opencast mines in Korea is gradually increasing. Increase in productivity with safe mining operations is the emphasis laid on the mining industry. KIGAM has undertaken a detailed investigation to apply RMR and Q classification system for the design of underground limestone mining operations. The field investigations were confined to the underground mines of Daesung Mining Development Co. Ltd. and Pyunghae Mines of Korean Airport Service. Modification to the standard RMR and Q for limestone mines in Korea along with the correlation between these two systems are discussed while attempts were also made to calculate the width of a safe unsupported span.

• The Journal of Engineering Geology
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• v.16 no.3 s.49
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• pp.283-291
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• 2006

Shotcrete is used as a permanent lining in single shell tunnels even though shotcrete has been used as a temporary lining in NATM tunnels. Therefore, the accurate evaluation of strength parameters is very crucial because the reliable estimation of loads acting on the shotcretes is necessary to maintain the stability of tunnels. The evaluation of strength parameters of the ground far the single shell tunnels should be investigated to adapt the method in Korea because the geological condition of Korea is different from that of other country. Rock classification and strength parameters obtained from 25 tunnel sites were investigated for this study. Support types fur the different rock classes are suggested for the single shell tunnels in Korea based on the NMT because Q-system has been widely used in Korea. The support types in terms of both Q and RMR values are given based on the correlation of Q and RMR values obtained from the case studies.

• Journal of Korean Tunnelling and Underground Space Association
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• v.9 no.1
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• pp.63-74
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• 2007

Unexpected ground conditions have always been a major problem for the construction of tunnel. Therefore, it is necessary to evaluate the risk capacity before and/or during construction of new tunnel. This paper presents the simplified risk assessment system using modified stability number (N), namely Underground Risk Index (URI) system, to evaluate the tunnel risk possibility in the design stage. URI is a scoring system for risk possibility by rating the each appraisal elements. The modified stability number (N) which is one of risk factor in the Interaction Matrix parameters such as RQD, UCS, weathering, overburden, stability number, ground water-table, RMR, permeability and so on, is used in the system. In addition, the case study is performed in order to verify the applicability of URI-system in practice.

• Geomechanics and Engineering
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• v.13 no.4
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• pp.571-584
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• 2017

Slope mass rating (SMR) is commonly used for the geomechanical classification of rock masses in an attempt to evaluate the stability of slopes. SMR is calculated from the $RMR_{89-basic}$ (basic rock mass rating) and from the characteristic features of discontinuities, and may be applied to slope stability analysis as well as to slope support recommendations. This study attempts to utilize the SMR classification system for slope stability analysis and to investigate the engineering geological conditions of the slopes and the slope stability analysis of the Gas Flare site in phases 6, 7 and 8 of the South Pars Gas Complex in Assalouyeh, south of Iran. After studying a total of twelve slopes, the results of the SMR classification system indicated that three slope failure modes, namely, wedge, plane and mass failure were possible along the slopes. In addition, the stability analyses conducted by a number of computer programs indicated that three of the slopes were stable, three of the slopes were unstable and the remaining six slopes were categorized as 'needs attention'classes.