Abstract
The slope mass rating (SMR) method is universally used for the
characterization and classification of rock slopes. SMR is calculated by
reducing the value of basic rock mass rating (RMRb) by subtracting three
adjustment factors F1, F2, and F3 based on the geometrical relationship
between the slope and discontinuity and adding one adjustment factor F4
depending upon the excavation method used. These adjustment factors (F1,
F2, and F3) are mathematical functions (continuous/discrete) that
require post-processing of field data on a computer for their
derivation. Less work has been done to develop the charts for the direct
calculation of SMR in the field. In this paper, SMR charts are developed
for the onsite classification of rock slopes. With the aid of SMR
charts, an engineering geologist can easily assess the onsite SMR class
of rock slopes by plotting discontinuity dip amount (plunge amount in
case of wedge failure) and strike parallelism between slope dip
direction and discontinuity dip direction (slope dip direction and trend
direction of intersection line in case of wedge failure). Using SMR
charts for any project (open-pit mines, road cut slopes, natural slopes,
etc.) onsite suggestions of proper remedial and preventive measures for
the rock slopes can be given, which accelerates the overall preliminary
slope mass classification process. The proposed SMR charts are
straightforward to use and can be adopted as useful tools for the
preliminary rock slope stability assessment.