Proceedings on Engineering Sciences | 2026
Authors: Hemed A.
DOI: 10.24874/PES08.01B.004
Journal: Proceedings on Engineering Sciences
Year: 2026
Publisher: Faculty of Engineering, University of Kragujevac
Document Type: Article
Open Access: All Open Access; Gold Open Access; Green Open Access
Cited by: 0
Geological investigations indicate that the studied deposit is affected by intense natural fracturing. The stratified rock mass is intersected by several families of diaclases with variable orientations and rough discontinuity surfaces. The orientation of these fractures relative to bench faces significantly influences slope stability by modifying the effective dip in relation to the mining direction. Located in a highly fragmented rock mass, the M’HAOUDATT open pit experiences stability problems that directly affect the strip ratio and the overall production chain. Structural assessment of the pit was conducted using field observations and mine design parameters defined by mining engineers. A kinematic stability analysis was performed to identify potential failure mechanisms based on discontinuity data collected during site investigations. Failure to properly identify structural features such as diaclases, faults, stratification planes, and schistosity can lead to instability issues. In this context, seismic geophysical methods are evaluated as effective tools for slope stability analysis, as they provide mechanical parameters essential for stability calculations. This study aims to determine fracture orientations in different pit sectors to assess their impact on stability and propose measures to restore an optimized strip ratio. © 2026 Published by Faculty of Engineeringg.
BIF; M'HAOUDATT; Open pit; Planar failure; Slope stability; Wedge failure