A Geological Classification of Rock Mass Quality and Blast Ability For Intermediate Spaced Formations

ISSN: 2277-3754
ISO 9001:2008 Certified

International Journal of Engineering and Innovative Technology (IJEIT)
Volume 4, Issue 9, March 2015
A geological classification of rock mass quality

and blast ability for intermediate spaced
formations
M. Chatziangelou & B. Christaras
Department of Geology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 546 31, Greece

II. THEORY
Abstract—Success in the excavation of geological formations is
commonly known as being very important in asserting stability. A. Rock mass quality using RMR classification system
Furthermore, when the subjected geological formation is rocky Rock Mass Rating (RMR) classification system [1], is
and the use of explosives is required, the demands of successful based on mechanical and structural characteristics of rock
blasting are multiplied. The present paper proposes the Blast mass. The RMR index is calculated;
ability Quality System (BQS), for organizing the classification of RMR  A1  A2  A3  A4  A5  B (1)
geological formations, using the change of the Blast ability Index
Where
(BI) in relation to the rock mass quality. The BQS combines the
blast ability and the quality of rock masses with intermediate A1 = rating for the uniaxial compressive strength of the rock
spaced (0,1-1m). The Blast-ability Quality System (BQS) can be material, A2 = ratings for the Rock Quality Destination (RQD
an easy and widely - used tool as it is a quick evaluator for blast [15]), A3= ratings for the spacing of joints, A4 = ratings for
ability and rock mass quality at one time. Taking into the condition of joints, A5 = ratings for the ground water
consideration the research calculations and the parameters of conditions, and B = ratings for the orientation of joints.
BQS, what has been at question in this paper is the effect of blast
ability in a geological formation with intermediate spaced From the value of RMR in the actual excavation, the rock
discontinuities.
support can be estimated by using a special excavation and
Index Terms—Blast ability, discontinuities, geological support table. RMR can be used to crudely estimate the
classification, rock mass deformation modulus of rock masses, too. Bieniawski [1]
strongly emphasizes that a great deal of judgment is used in
I. INTRODUCTION the application of a rock mass classification system in support
The several geological formations, which are affected by design [18].
numerous stages of disintegration in varying stress conditions,
may act in a different manner under specified blast design, In the RMR system, there is no input parameter for rock
explosive characteristics and specified legislative constraints stresses, but stresses up to 25MPa are included in the
depending on the site specifics. estimated RMR value. Thus, overstress (rock burst and
squeeze) is not included. Whether of how faulty and weakness
The present paper improves the “Blast ability Quality zones are included, is unclear. No special parameter for such
System (BQS)” [3] by combining the quality with the blast features is used, but some of the parameters included in the
ability of a rock mass [8], which can be easily used in situ, in system may represent conditions in faults, though the often
order to estimate, easily, the explosion results [13] in relation complicated structure and composition in these features are
to excavation methods. The “Blast ability Quality System generally difficult to characterize or classify. Therefore, it is
(BQS)” is a frame table which uses the changes of the Blast probable that RMR does not work well for many faulty and
ability Index (BI) in relation to the rock mass quality. The weak zones. Swelling rock is not included in the RMR system
geological provision of explosion results and the ability of [16].
engineering geologists or engineers to choose quickly the B. Geological strength Index
most applicable way of blasting, minimize, in the same time, The Geological Strength Index (GSI) [6] relates to the
the percentage of instability problems. overall rock mass quality. It is based on an assessment of the
lithology, structure and condition of discontinuous surfaces in
Taking into consideration the blasting to the excavation, the geological foundations and is estimated through visual
the study takes into consideration the cohesive soil and examination of rock mass exposed in crops, surface
laminated formations which cannot be excavated by excavations such as road cuts, tunnel faces or borehole cores.
mechanical means easily. It utilizes two fundamental parameters of the geological
process (block size of the mass and discontinuities
characteristics); hence it takes into consideration the main
52
ISSN: 2277-3754
geological constraints that govern a formation. Additionally, geological foundation. The second group concerns the
this index is simple to assess in the field. discontinuity structure, which includes the orientation,
spacing, the extent of discontinuities, and the in-situ block
Referring to Palmstrom [14], block size and discontinuity sizes created by a range of long-term geological processes.
spacing can be measured by means of the Volumetric Joint
Count Jv, or by means of block volume, Vb. Sommez and The Blastability index (BI) is a quantitative measure of the
Ulusay [20] determined block size in the GSI chart by the blastability of a rock mass. It will be most advantageous for
Structure Rating coefficient (SR) that is related to the Jv the BI to be determined before blasting in order to help with
coefficient. Cai et al. [2] presented a quantifier by the mean of the blast design of an excavation [4]. Without any realistic
discontinuity spacing S of by the man block volume Vb. The chance in the short term of a practical analytical solution to
structure was quantified by joint spacing in order to calculate define the value of the BI for a given rock mass as a function
the block volume, and the joint surface condition was of material properties, the development of a comprehensive
quantified by a joint condition factor. The GSI is therefore assessment system for quantifying the blastability of
built on the linkage between descriptive geological terms and geological masses would appear to have great potential [10].
measurable earth field parameters such as joint spacing or
roughness. So, based on this information, GSI uses the The Blastability index (BI) is used for the description of the
description of rock mass structure – as laminated and sheared, ease of blasting and it is also related to rock fragmentation
disintegrated, blocky and disturbed, very blocky, blocky and [19] or power factor. When the BI is lower than 8, the ease of
intact of massive – referring to the block size and blasting is described as “very difficult”. When the BI range is
discontinuity space and the description of surface conditions between 8 and 13, the ease of blasting is described as
– or as very poor, poor, fair, good and very good – referring to “difficult”. When the BI range is between 13 and 20, the ease
the joint surface conditions. of blasting is described as “moderate”. When the BI range is
between 20 and 40, the ease of blasting is described as “easy”.
The rock mass type is a controlling factor in the assessment When the BI is higher than 40, the ease of blasting is
of the earth excavation method, as it is closely related to the described as “very easy”. This differentiation in description
number of discontinuity sets and reflects the rock mass has an immediate effect on excavation cost which always
structure. The Geological Strength Index, in its original form, depends on factors like explosion, vibration, disintegration,
was not scale dependent, thus the block size is not directly powder creation etc. [9].
related to the rock mass type. Nevertheless, each rock type has
a broad correlation to the rock block size, i.e., a rock mass In our study, the BI is to be calculated by the following
which is characterized as “blocky” has bigger blocks than a formula [11] which is proposed by Lilly, based on rock mass
rock mass which is characterized as “very blocky” or description, joint density [17] and orientation, specific gravity
“disintegrated” , that is, made up of very small rock and hardness:
fragments. This correlation is only informative, however, and BI  0.5x( RMD  JPS  JPO  SGI  H ) (2)
it is not applicable on certain rock mass types, e.g., sheared Where,
schist, as the spacing of the schistosity planes equates to the BI = Blastability Index
discontinuity planes and hence the concept of block volume is RMD (Rock mass Description) = 10 (for Powdery/Friable
not applicable. For this reason, the present classification for rock mass), 20 (for Blocky rock mass), 50 (for Totally
the assessment of excavation ability is based on the original Massive rockmass)
GSI charts (version 2000). Hoek and Karzulovic [7] JPS (Joint Plan Spacing) =10 (for closely spaced
suggested a range of GSI values for different excavation discontinuities), 20 (for intermediate spaced discontinuities),
methods. They proposed that rock masses can be dug up when 50 (for widely spaced discontinuities)
GSI is estimated to be about 40 and the rock mass strength is JPO (Joint Plane Orientation) = 10 (for Horizontal), 20 (for
about 1MPa, while ripping can be used when GSI is estimated Dip out of the Face), 30 (for Strike Normal to Face), 40 (for
to be between 40 and 60 and rock mass strength is about Dip into Face)
10MPa. Blasting was the only effective excavation method SGI (Specific 3
Gravity Influence) = 25 x Specific Gravity of
when GSI is greater than 60 and rock mass strength is more rock (t/m ) – 50
than 15MPa. H = Hardness in Mho Scale (1-10)
C. Blastability index and Rock Mass Classification Considering that blastability index, as it is calculated by
Systems Lilly’s formula, is based on geological formation description,
The factors that influence blasting results fall into two joint density and orientation, evokes the same parameters that
groups. The first group concerns the intact rock properties, Rock Mass Rating System - RMR is also based on. This
which includes strength, hardness, elasticity, deformability, classification can be described by Geological Strength Index
density of rock, etc. The qualities depend on texture, internal – GSI, too.
bonds, composition and distribution of minerals in the
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ISSN: 2277-3754
GEOLOGICAL STRENGTH INDEX FOR
Smooth, moderately weathered and altered surfaces
Slickenside, highly weathered surfaces with soft

Slickensided, highly weathered surfaces with
JOINTED ROCKS
compact coatings of rillings or angular fragments

Rough, slightly weathered, iron stained surfaces
From the lithology, structure and surface
SURFACE CONDITIONS
conditions of the discontinuities, estimate the
average value of GSI. Do not try to be too
Very rough, fresh unweathered surfaces

precise. Quoting a range from 33 to 37 is more
realistic than stating that GSI=35. Note that the
table does not apply to structurally controlled
failures.Where weak planar structural planes
are present in an unfavourable orientation with
respect to the excavation face, these will
dominate the rock mass behaviour. The shear
clay coatings or fillings

strength of surfaces in rocks that are prone to
deterioration as a result of changes in moisture
content will be reduces if water is present.When
VERY GOOD
VERY POOR
working with rocks in the fair to very poor
categories, a shift to the right may be made for
GOOD
POOR
wet conditions. Water pressure is dealt with by
FAIR
effective stress analysis.
STRUCTURE DECREASING SURFACE QUALITY
INTACT OF MASSIVE - 90
intact rock specimens of N/A N/A
massive in situ rock with
few widely spaced
discontinuities
80
BLOCKY - well interlocked

undisturbed rock mass 70
consisting of cubical blocks
W V U T S
DECREASING INTERLOCKING OF ROCK PIECES
formed by three intersecting

discontinuity sets
60
VERY BLOCKY - interlocked,

partially disturbed mass with
multi-faceted angular blocks
formed by 4 or more joint
R Q 50 P O N
sets
40
BLOCKY / DISTURBED /
SEAMY- folded with angular
blocks formed by many
M L K J I
intersecting discontinuity
sets. Persistence of bedding
planes or schistosity
30
F Å 20
D
DISINTEGRATED - poorly
interlocked, heavily broken
rock mass with mixture of
angular and rounded rock
H G
pieces
10
LAMINATED / SHEARED -
Lack of blockiness due to C Â Á
close spacing of weak N/A N/A
schistosity of shear planes
54
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III. RESULTS discontinuities, 20 for declined discontinuities where the
excavation drives against dip direction, 30 for declined
A. Combining blastability with quality
The laminated and sheared rock mass, with lack of discontinuities with strike parallel to face, 40 for declined
blockiness, due to intermediate spaced discontinuities of discontinuities where the excavation drives with dip direction
week schistosity or shear planes and disintegrated rock mass, and SGI (specific gravity influence) 3
was calculated using
with poorly interlocked, heavily broken rock with mixture of specific gravity of rocks (t/m ) from 1-3 (table 1). 1600
angular or rounded rock pieces, which are described by the different rock mass combinations were estimated and the BI
lower part of GSI diagram, has been divided into eight parts was calculated for every rock mass type.
(Fig.1); A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H. The disturbed, seamy and very At next stage, we regrouped these rock structures referring
blocky rock mass, folded with angular blocks formed by many to RMR range and GSI parts, taking into consideration rock
intersecting discontinuity sets with bedding planes or mass hardness and discontinuities orientation. The range of
schistosity, in addition to interlocked, partially disturbed mass BI was also calculated. GSI range was calculated for every
with multi-faceted angular blocks formed by four or more rock mass type with a specific RMR. The rock structures are
joint sets, which are described by the middle part of GSI numbered from 1 to 1600 and they were banded together
diagram, has been divided into ten parts (Fig.1); I, J, K, L, M, according to RMR range, too.
N, O, P, Q, R. The well interlocked undisturbed blocky rock Finally, a useful diagram of composite rock mass quality
mass, which consists of cubical blocks formed by three and range of the Blastability Index (BI) aroused from these
intersecting discontinuity sets, that is, described by this part of estimations (Fig. 2). The rock mass may consist of horizontal
GSI diagram, has been divided into five parts (Fig. 1); S, T, U, or gradient discontinuities with strike perpendicular to tunnel
V and W. axis or strike parallel to tunnel axis. In case there are only
Taking into consideration the parameters of Blastability horizontal discontinuities, the blastability index was
Index BI=0.5x (RMD+JPS+JPO+SGI+H) [11], the calculated between 24 and 54 for disintegrated and laminated
Blastability Index (BI) was calculated for every possible rock mass and between 29 and 57 for blocky rock mass. In
combination of these parameters. This means that RMD (rock case the discontinuities are inclined and the strike of
mass description) was equal to 10 for powdery / friable rock formation is parallel to tunnel axis, the blastability index was
mass and 20 for blocky rock mass. calculated between 31 and 62 for disintegrated and laminated
rock mass and between 39 and 67 for blocky rock mass. In
TABLE 1. Specific gravity influence (SGI) case of gradient discontinuities and rock mass may strike
SGI specific gravity of rock perpendicular to excavation axis when excavation drives
25*specific gravity of rock (t/m3) against dip direction, the blastability index was calculated
(t/m3)-50
between 24 and 61 for disintegrated and laminated rock mass
-22.5 1.1
and between 31 and 62 for blocky rock mass. In case of
-20 1.2 gradient discontinuities and rock mass may strike
-17.5 1.3 perpendicular to excavation axis when excavation drives with
-15 1.4 dip direction, the blastability index was calculated between 36
-12.5 1.5 and 67 for disintegrated and laminated rock mass and between
-10 1.6 44 and 72 for blocky rock mass. All in all, according to the
-7.5 1.7 surface conditions and the structure of the rock mass, we can
-5 1.8 estimate GSI and RMR range. According to the estimated BI
-2.5 1.9 values, blasting is characterized of a relative easiness,
0 2 according to rock mass quality and hardness. A detailed
2.5 2.1 evaluation of blastability index for every rock mass structure
5 2.2 type is given on figure 2, so as the rock mass is classified
according to GSI and RMR systems, the exact BI range may
7.5 2.3
be estimated. The relation between blastability index and
10 2.4
powder factor led to the conclusion, the optimal design and
12.5 2.5
explosive parameters may safely be calculated.
15 2.6
17.5 2.7 B. Blastability Quality System (BQS)
20 2.8 Blastability Quality System (BQS) is a very useful
22.5 2.9 approach as it includes the most useful characteristics of rock
25 3 mass, which are easily estimated and used in situ. In addition
to it is easily and wide use, it is a quick calculator for the BI
As the present study concerns intermediate spaced and rock mass quality, which make our choice of excavation,
discontinuities, JPS (joint plan spacing) was equal to 20. JPO blast and support measures quicker.
(joint plane orientation) was equal to 10 for horizontal
55
INTERMEDIATE SPACED DISCONTINUITIES
Strike perpendicular to tunnel axis Strike parallel Horizontal
Drive with dip to tunnel axis discontinuities
Drive against dip
FAIR
FAIR
FAIR
FAIR
POOR
POOR
POOR
POOR
GOOD
GOOD
GOOD
GOOD
weathered and altered

VERY GOOD
Very rough, fresh
VERY GOOD
Very rough, fresh
VERY GOOD
Very rough, fresh
VERY GOOD
Very rough, fresh
surfaces
surfaces
surfaces
surfaces
Smooth, moderately
Smooth, moderately
Smooth, moderately
Smooth, moderately
unweathered surfaces
weathered surfaces with

compact coatings of rillings

or angular fragments
Slickensided, highly
iron stained surfaces

VERY POOR
weathered surfaces with soft
VERY POOR
VERY POOR
VERY POOR
Rough, slightly weathered,

Slickenside, highly
Slickenside, highly
Slickenside, highly
Slickenside, highly
SURFACE CONDITIONS
SURFACE CONDITIONS
SURFACE CONDITIONS
SURFACE CONDITIONS
STRUCTURE DECREASING SURFACE QUALITY DECREASING SURFACE QUALITY DECREASING SURFACE QUALITY DECREASING SURFACE QUALITY
INTACT OF
MASSIVE - intact
rock specimens of 90 90 90 90
massive in situ rock N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
with few widely
spaced
discontinuities 80 80 80 80
BLOCKY - well Mohs 5-10 0
Mohs 1-4 Mohs 8-10 Mohs 5-7 s 5-1
interlocked 65 55 60 50 Moh
undisturbed rock 50 Mohs 1-7 1-4 -10
60 70 70 hs s 8 55 70 45 70
mass consisting of 55 45 Mo Moh 50 40
cubical blocks formed
W V U T S 40
W Mohs 1-7 V U T S W 7
V U T S W V U T S
by three intersecting 50 45 1- 35
35 s
discontinuity sets 45 60 60 Mohs 1-4 40 oh 60 30 60
M
70 65 55
VERY BLOCKY - Mohs 1-7 Mohs 1-7 Mohs 1-4 Mohs 1-4 Mohs 1-7
56
65 55 60 Mohs 1-7 50 Mohs 1-4
interlocked, partially Mohs 5-7
60 50 55 45
disturbed mass with
R Q 50 P O N 45 R Q 50 P O N R Q 50 P O N 50R Q P O N
multi-faceted angular 55 50 40
blocks formed by 4 or 40
50 45 35
BI = 44 - 72
more joint sets 35 Mohs 5-10 Mohs 5-10
Mohs 5-10
BI = 29 - 57
45 Mohs 8-10 40 Mohs 5-10 Mohs 5-7 30
BI = 31 - 62
BI = 39 - 67
ISSN: 2277-3754
70 40 Mohs 8-10 40 40 55 40 Mohs 5-10

BLOCKY / DISTURBED
/ SEAMY- folded with 65 55 60 50
Mohs 1-4 & 8-10 50
angular blocks formed 60 55 45
by many intersecting M L K J I 45 M L K J I M L K J I M L K J I
55 50 40
discontinuity sets.
40 Mohs 1-4
Persistence of bedding 50 30 30 45 30 35 Mohs 1-4 30
Mohs 1-7 35
planes or schistosity 45 Mohs 1-7 Mohs 1-7 40 30 Mohs 1-7 Mohs 1-4
From easy to very easy blasting
55 Mohs 5-7 Mohs 1-7 50

DISINTEGRATED - Mohs 1-4 55

60 Mohs 1-4 Mohs 1-7
45

poorly interlocked, 50
55 20 45 20 50 20 20

heavily broken rock F Å D F Å D F Å D 40 F Å D
50 H G 40 H
Mohs 1-7 G 45 H G H G
mass with mixture of 35 35
Mohs 5-10 40
angular and rounded 45 30
BI = 39 - 67
30
BI = 24 - 61
BI = 31 - 62
BI = 24 - 54
rock pieces Mohs 5-10 25 35 25

M
40
Moh
Mo Mo
oh
Fig.2. BQS for intermediate spaced discontinuities

s
hs
Moh
hs
LAMINATED /
5-
7- 1-7
s 5-1
10
10
SHEARED - Lack of
0
s 8-1
0
blockiness due to close N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
spacing of weak
schistosity of shear
planes
(1) (5) Slickenside, highly weathered surfaces with soft clay coatings or fillings
Very rough, fresh unweathered surfaces
(2)
Rough, slightly weathered, iron stained surfaces (6) Poorly interlocked, heavily broken rock mass with mixture of angular and rounded rock pieces
(3)
(4)
lickensided, highly weathered surfaces with compact coatings of (7) Lack of blockiness due to close spacing of weak schistosity of shear planes
rillings or angular fragments
RMR = 0-20 RMR = 21-40 RMR = 41-60 RMR = 61-80 RMR = 81-100
ISSN: 2277-3754
The BQ system (Fig. 2) combines rock mass classification discontinuity
systems RMR and GSI, structural data and the Blastability strike and dip
Index [5]. The long excavated and tunnelling practice orientation
establishes the strong relation of the classification systems
Taking into consideration the GSI and RMR estimations,
RMR and GSI. Also, the estimations of RMR and GSI for
we can come up with appropriate excavation technique and
every possible rock mass type support this opinion. The RMR
support measures, [1], [6], [21]. The ease of excavation,
and GSI results were combined so as they can be estimated
excavatability has been related with RMR and for the whole
graphically. range of rock mass types. Although excavatability assessment
There are two ways of BQS application; includes also blasting ability, the already known literature
a) The first way of BQS application requires that we does not estimate the blastability index at once. The ease of
have already classified the rock mass according to estimating the blastability index quickly is very useful in order
RMR classification system. At the first stage of the to determine the required energy for fragmentation, the
application, the orientation of discontinuities is powder factor and explosive properties. Since the information
distinguished. At second stage, we can relate the required can be obtained from exploration drilling or from
structure to the surface conditions in order to existing bench faces, it can be used in both the planning and
estimate an area of the Geological Strength Index production phases of projects requiring rock blasting. When
(GSI) using the gradient lines. At third stage, we coupled with computerized fragmentation models, the
define the right area of RMR taking into blastability index can provide an excellent mean to
consideration the structure and surface conditions in experiment on the Visual Display Unit screen with a variety of
addition to the area of the Geological Strength Index blast designs, thereby avoiding expensive mistakes or
(GSI). Sometimes, we may use rock mass hardness miscalculations in the field.
(Mohs scale) [12] in order to estimate the exact area
of RMR and GSI. Having completed this IV. DISCUSSION
classification, the BI range can easily be determined
at the left hand side of the diagram. A. Case studies of BQS application
b) The second way of BQS application does not requires the Two application examples are described further down
previous classification according RMR system. At which refer to Norhtern Greece.
the first stage of the application, the orientation of The first example is a part of Polimilos tunnel excavation
discontinuities is distinguished. At second stage, we works at Northern Greece. Looking at the rock mass example
can relate the structure to the surface condition in on figure 4, three discontinuity sets are observed. The
order to estimate; 1) an area of the Geological qualitative characteristics of the discontinuity sets are shown
Strength Index (GSI) using the gradient lines and 2) on table 6.
an area of RMR. Taking into account that an According to the qualitative characteristics of discontinuity
excavated face is not usually homogenous, we may sets, the Rock Mass Rating (RMR) is calculated 67.5 for Set
estimate two or three RMR areas of different rock 1, 63 for Set 2, 70 for Set 3. That means the rock mass quality
mass qualities. Having completed this classification, is good (II). The calculation of Rock Mass Rating, when the
the BI range can easily be determined at the left hand effect of discontinuity strike and dip orientation is not
side of the diagram. concerned (RMRbas), is calculated 72.5 for Set 1, 75 for Set 2,
Table 6. Qualified characteristics of discontinuity sets of 1st 75 for Set 3. That means the rock mass quality is good (II).
application Taking into consideration the rock mass quality and the
Strength of
characteristics which influence rock mass stability, the rock
intact rock
material 100-250 Mpa mass is classified according to Blastability Quality System
(BQS). So, the stability is determined by three discontinuity
RQD 75-90% sets, the unfavorable effect of discontinuity strike to dip
Set 1 Set 2 Set 3 orientation (strike perpendicular to tunnel axis and drive
Spacing of against dip direction) and the soft clayey coating of
discontinuities 1m 50cm-1,5m 20-70cm discontinuous surfaces because of high erosion. The
Discontinuity estimated area of BQS is shown on figure 3. The BQS area is
length 9m 16m 13m referred to blocky rock mass, well interlocked undisturbed,
Seperation <0,1mm None None which consists of cubical block formed by three intersecting
Roughness Rough Rough Rough discontinuity sets, with very poor surface conditions, where
Soft filling the stability may be affected by discontinuities with strike
Infilling <5mm None None perpendicular to tunnel axis (drive against dip). According to
Highly Slightly Slightly this classification, GSI is estimated between 35 and 40, and
Weathering weathered weathered weathered taking into account that RMR is 61-80, Blastability Index (BI)
Groundwater Damp Damp Damp is estimated between 54 and 62 (very easy blasting).
Effect of Fair Unfavorable Fair
57
Application 2 ;
Application 1 ; RMR
RMR classification
classification has not
has preceded preceded
INTERMEDIATE SPACED DISCONTINUITIES

Strike perpendicular to tunnel axis Strike parallel Horizontal
Drive with dip to tunnel axis discontinuities
Drive against dip
highly
highly
highly
highly
highly
highly
highly
altered
highly
altered
altered
altered
moderately
moderately
moderately
moderately
fresh
and
and
and
and
POOR
POOR
POOR
POOR
GOOD
GOOD
GOOD
GOOD
FAIR
FAIR
FAIR
FAIR
compact coatings of rillings or

angular fragments
Slickensided,
Slickensided,
Slickensided,
VERY GOOD
Very rough,
Slickensided,
VERY POOR
VERY GOOD
Very rough, fresh
VERY POOR
VERY GOOD
Very rough, fresh
VERY POOR
VERY GOOD
Very rough, fresh
VERY POOR
surfaces
surfaces
surfaces
surfaces
Slickenside,
Slickenside,
Slickenside,
weathered
Slickenside,
unweathered
weathered
unweathered
weathered
unweathered
weathered
unweathered
surfaces
surfaces
surfaces

Smooth,
surfaces
Smooth,
Smooth,
Smooth,
SURFACE CONDITIONS
SURFACE CONDITIONS
SURFACE CONDITIONS
SURFACE CONDITIONS
STRUCTURE DECREASING SURFACE QUALITY DECREASING SURFACE QUALITY DECREASING SURFACE QUALITY DECREASING SURFACE QUALITY
INTACT OF MASSIVE - intact

rock specimens of massive in 90 90 90 90
N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
situ rock with few widely
spaced discontinuities
80 80 80 80
Mohs 8-10 Mohs 5-10 Mohs 5-7 s 5-10
BLOCKY - well interlocked 65 s 1-4 55 60 50 Moh
Moh 1-4
undisturbed rock mass 50 Mohs 1-7 hs 0 55 45
60 70 70 Mo s 8-1 70 70
consisting of cubical blocks 45 Moh
formed by three intersecting 55 W V U T S W Mohs 1-7
V U T S 50 W V U T S 40 W V U T S
40 45 1-7 35
discontinuity sets 50
hs
58
60 35 60 60 60
45 Mohs 1-4 40 Mo 30
70 65 55
Mohs 1-7 Mohs 1-7 Mohs 1-4 Mohs 1-4 Mohs 1-7
65 55 60 50
VERY BLOCKY - interlocked, Mohs 5-7 Mohs 1-7 Mohs 1-4
60 50 55 45
partially disturbed mass with
multi-faceted angular blocks R Q 50 P O N 45 R Q 50 P O N R Q 50 P O N 50 R Q P O N
55 50 40
formed by 4 or more joint sets 40
ISSN: 2277-3754
50 45 35
BI = 44 - 72
35 Mohs 5-10 Mohs 5-10
BI = 29 - 57
45 Mohs 8-10 40 Mohs 5-7 30
BI = 31 - 62
BI = 39 - 67
70 40 Mohs 8-10 40 Mohs 5-10 Mohs 5-10 40 55 40 Mohs 5-10
BLOCKY / DISTURBED / 65 55 60 50
SEAMY- folded with angular 4 & 8-10 50

Mohs 1-
60 55 45
blocks formed by many M L K J I 45 M L K J I M L K J I M L K J I
intersecting discontinuity sets. 55 1-7 50 40
40 hs Mohs 1-4
Persistence of bedding planes or 50 30 Mo 30 45 30 35 Mohs 1-4 30
Mohs 1-7 35
schistosity
1-7
45 Mohs 1-7 40 30
hs
Mohs 1-7
Mohs 5-7 Mohs 1-7 50 Mohs 1-4

55 55
Mo
Mohs 1-4

60 Mohs 1-4 50 Mohs 1-7 From easy to very easy blasting 45
DISINTEGRATED - poorly 20 50
55 20 45 20 20

interlocked, heavily broken rock F Å D F Å D F Å D 40 F Å D
50 H G 40 H G 45 H G H G
mass with mixture of angular and 35
Mohs 5-10
35 40
rounded rock pieces 45 30
BI = 39 - 67
30
BI = 24 - 61
BI = 24 - 54
BI = 31 - 62
40 5-10 25 35 25
Mohs 8-10 0 Mo 10
s 7-10 5-1 5-
M oh Mohs hs
hs 1
-7 s
Mo oh
M
LAMINATED / SHEARED - Lack
of blockiness due to close N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
spacing of weak schistosity of
shear planes
(1)
Very rough, fresh unweathered surfaces (5) Slickenside, highly weathered surfaces with soft clay coatings or fillings
(2)
Rough, slightly weathered, iron stained surfaces (6) Poorly interlocked, heavily broken rock mass with mixture of angular and rounded rock pieces
(3)
(4)
lickensided, highly weathered surfaces with compact coatings of (7) Lack of blockiness due to close spacing of weak schistosity of shear planes
rillings or angular fragments
RMR = 0-20 RMR = 21-40 RMR = 41-60 RMR = 61-80 RMR = 81-100 Application 1 ; Application 2 ;
RMR RMR
Fig.3. Areas of estimation during application of the BQS for intermediated spaced discontinuities
classification classification
has not has preceded
preceded
ISSN: 2277-3754
On the other hand, BQS does not require the previous between 40 and 60. The calculation of Rock Mass Rating,
classification according RMR system; the stability is when the effect of discontinuity strike and dip orientation
determined by the discontinuity set of unfavorable effect of (RMRbas) is not concerned, is calculated 55 for Set 1, 59 for
strike to dip orientation (strike perpendicular to tunnel axis Set 2, 85 for Set 3 and73 for Set 4. For the same already
and drive against dip direction). Also, the rock mass is blocky, mentioned reasons, he rock mass quality is also characterized
well interlocked undisturbed, and consists of cubical block as medium (III). Taking into consideration the rock mass
formed by three intersecting discontinuity sets, with very poor quality and the characteristics which influence rock mass
surface conditions. Referring to this description, the BQS area stability, the rock mass is classified according to Blastability
is estimated on figure 3; GSI is estimated to be between 30 Quality System (BQS). So, the stability is determined by four
and 40, RMR is 21-80, Blastability Index (BI) is estimated discontinuity sets, the very unfavorable effect of discontinuity
between 43 and 62 (very easy blasting). strike to dip orientation (strike parallel to tunnel axis and dip
Combining the two ways of BQS application, the quality of between 45o and 90o) and the soft thick filling between
rock mass is good, although there may be places where the discontinous surfaces. The estimated area of BQS is shown on
quality is getting worse (poor and medium quality – IV and figure 3. The BQS area is referred to very blocky rock mass,
III). Also, GSI is between 35 and 40, but there may be places interlocked, partially disturbed mass with multi-faceted
where it falls to 30. Anyway, the blasting is very easy, angular blocks formed by 4 or more joint sets, with very poor
Blastability Index (BI) is between 54 and 62 and somewhere surface conditions, where the stability may be affected by
may fall to 43. discontinuities with strike parallel to tunnel axis. According to
The second example concerns the excavation of the this classification, GSI is estimated to be between 20 and 30,
entrance of a drainage tunnel at Northern Greece. Looking at and taking into account that RMR is 41-60, Blastability Index
rock mass example on figure 5, four discontinuity sets are (BI) is estimated to be between 43 and 49 (very easy blasting).
observed. The qualitative characteristics of the discontinuity
sets are shown on table 7.
Table 7. Qualified characteristics of discontinuity sets of 2nd
application
Strength of
intact rock
material 70 Mpa
RQD 50-75%
Set 1 Set 2 Set 3 Set 4
Spacing of
discontinuities 10 -50cm 20-50cm >2m 20-60cm
Discontinuity
length 3-10m 4m >20m 3-10m Fig. 4. A face of tunnel excavation at Polimilos Part of Egnatia
Separation >5mm >5mm None None Highway at Northern Greece
On the other hand, BQS does not require the previous
Roughness Rough Rough Very rough Very rough classification according RMR system; the stability is
Soft
determined by the discontinuity set 1 of very unfavorable
Soft filling filling
Infilling >5mm >5mm None None effect of strike to dip orientation (strike parallel to tunnel
Slightly Slightly Slightly axis). Also, the rock mass is very blocky, interlocked partially
Weathering weathered weathered Unweathered weathered disturbed with multi-faceted angular blocks formed by 4 or
Completely Completely more joint sets, with very poor surface conditions. Referring
Groundwater Damp Damp dry dry to this description, the BQS area is estimated on figure 3; GSI
Effect of is estimated to be between 20 and 30, RMR is 0-80,
discontinuity
Very Very Blastability Index (BI) is estimated between 39 and 60 (easy
strike and Fair Fair
unfavorable favorable and very easy blasting).
dip
orientation Combining the two ways of BQS application, the quality of
rock mass is medium, although there may be places where the
According to the qualitative characteristics of discontinuity quality is getting worse (poor and very poor quality – IV and
sets, the Rock Mass Rating (RMR) is calculated 43 for Set 1, V). Also, GSI is between 20 and 30. Anyway, the blasting is
54 for Set 2, 80 for Set 3 and 73 for Set 4. Looking at figure 5, very easy, Blastability Index (BI) is between 43 and 49 and
the soft filling and the vertical surfaces are the most important somewhere may fall to 39.
characteristics of the rock mass which may cause sliding. So,
the discontinuity sets 1 and 2 may influence the stability badly V. CONCLUSIONS
and minimize rock mass quality. Because of this reason, the The present paper improves the effectiveness of the
rock mass is characterized as medium (III), where RMR is “Blastability Quality System (BQS)” for intermediate spaced
59
ISSN: 2277-3754
discontinuities combining the quality with blast ability of rock [7] E. Hoek, A. Karzulovic, “Rock mass properties for surface
mass, which can be easily used in situ, for estimating, quickly, mines. Slope Stability in Surface Mining”, In: Hustralid WA,
McCarter MK, van Ayl DJA (eds) Littleton, Colorado: Society
the explosion results, in relation to the excavation methods.
for Mining, Metallurgical and Exploration (SME), pp.59-70,
“Blastability Quality System (BQS)” is a tool which combines 2000.
rock mass quality with discontinuities orientation and rock
mass hardness with the blastability index (BI). It can be easily [8] C.L. Jimeno, E.L. Jinemo & F.J.A. Carcedo, “Drilling &
Blasting of Rocks” A.A.Bulkema, Rotterdum, Brookfield
used during excavation process, in order to describe, Publication, p160-180, 1995.
quantitatively, the rock mass blasting and calculate the BI.
[9] D. Kaushik, S. Phalguni, “Concept of Blastability – An
Update, The Indian Mining & Engineering Journal”, vol.42,
no.8&9, pp.24-31, 2003.
[10] J.-P. Latham and Lu Ping, “Development of a assessment
system for the blastability of rock masses”, International
Journal of Rock Mechanics and Mining Sciences, vol. 36,
pp.41-55, 1999.
[11] P. Lilly, “An Empirical Method of Assessing Rock mass
blastability”, Large Open Pit Mine Conference, Newman,
Australia, pp.89-92, 1986.
[12] F.Mohs,Versucheiner Elementar- Methodezur Naturhistoris
chen Best immung und Erkennung von Fossilie”
ÖsterreichLexikon, 1812.
[13] V. Murthy, D. K., R. Raitani, “Prediction of over break in
underground tunnel blasting. A case study.” Journal of
Canadian Tunnelling Canadian, pp.109-115, 2003.
Fig. 5. Rock mass at entrance of a drainage tunnel at Northern
[14] Ar. Palmstrom, “Recent developments in rock support
Greece
estimates by the RMi”, J Rock MechTunnellTechn, vol. 6,
This is a great help for deciding on explosions and support no.1, pp. 1-19, 2000.
measures, in addition to the already known methods. Two
examples of the new system are described using the two ways [15] Palmström A. “Measurements of and correlations between
of BQS application. Referring to the first way of application, block size and rock quality designation (RQD).” Tunnels and
Underground Space Technology, Vol. 20, 2005, pp. 362-377,
the rock mass has already classified according to RMR
www.rockmass.net. 2005.
classification system and the estimation is taking into
consideration BQS application. Referring to the second way [16] Ar. Palmstrom, “Combining the RMR, Q and RMi
of BQS application, RMR and GSI in addition to Blastability classification systems”, WWW.ROCKMASS.NET, 2009.
Index are estimated using BQS. The two applications are [17] S.D. Priest & J.A. Hudson, “Discontinuity spacing’s in rock”,
combined and the engineers can form a collective opinion of Int. Jour. Rock. Mech. Min. Sci. & Gomech, vol.13,
rock mass behavior, and decide the most relevant excavation pp.135-148, 1976.
technique and support measures. [18] M. Romana, , J.B. Serón, , E. Montalar, “SMR Geomechanics
classification: Application, experience and validation”, ISRM,
REFERENCES Technology roadmap for rock mechanics, South African
[1] Z.T. Bieniawski, “Engineering rock mass classifications” New Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, 2003.
York: Wiley, 1989.
[19] P. Singh, Am. Sinha, “Rock Fragmentation by blasting”,
[2] M.PK. Cai, Kaiser, H. Uno, Y. Tasaka, M. Minami, Taylor & Francis, CRC Press, 2012.
“Estimation of rock mass deformation modulus and strength of
jointed hard rock masses using the GSI system” Int J Rock [20] H. Sonmez and R. Ulusay, “Modifications to the geological
Mecdh Min Sci; vol.41, pp. 3-19, 2004. strength index (GSI) and their applicability to stability of
slopes”, Int J Rock Mech Min Sci; vol.36, pp. 743-760, 1999.
[3] M. Chatziangelou, B. Christaras, “Blastability Index on poor
quality rock mass ” Int. J. of Civil Engineering (IJCE), vol. 2, [21] G. Tsiambaos, H. Saroglou, “Excavatability assessment of rock
no. 5, pp. 9-16, 2013. masses using the Geological Strength Index (GSI)”, Bull Eng
Geol Environ, vol. 69, pp. 13-27, 2010.21.
[4] B. Christaras, M. Chatziangelou, “Blastability Quality System
(BQS) for using it, in bedrock excavation” Structural
Engineering and Mechanics, Techno-Press Ltd., vol. 51,
no.5,pp.823-845, 2014. AUTHOR BIOGRAPHY
Dr. Maria Chatziangelou was born in Thessaloniki in
[5] K.Hino, “Theory and Practice of Blasting”, Noppon Kayaku Greece on 11th June of 1973. She studied geology at
Co, Ltd, 1959.
Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. She earned the
[6] E. Hoek, PK. Kaiser, WF. Bawden, “Support of underground diploma of Geology in 1977. In 2000, she earned the
excavations in hard rock”, Rotterdam, Balkema, 1995.
60
ISSN: 2277-3754
Post Graduate Diploma on Applied and Environmental Geology from
Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. In 2008, she earned the doctorate (PhD)
in Engineering Geology from the School of Geology of Aristotle University
of Thessaloniki. Her research focuses on geomechanics and geotechnics
(slope stability, grouting, tunneling, laboratory tests, soil and rock
mechanics, blasting, quarries, groundwater investigation). She has written
the book “Simple steps on soil mechanics” and she has also two educational
publications for Web courses. Her key publications on scientific journals
and international congresses are 30. She has participated in research
programs, which concern about soill and rock mechanics, slope stability,
groundwater and drainage investigation. She has also geotechnical
experience in working for construction companies since 2001. She has two
certificates of Constructors Experience Record on i) tunneling and ii)
drilling.
In 2012, the Research Committee on Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
awarded to her (award of excellence and innovation) for her research on
Blastability Quality System.
Dr. Chatziangelou is member of Geotechnical Chamber of Greece and
Geological Society of Greece since 1997.
Prof. Basile Christaras was born in Thessaloniki

in Greece on 20th of March in 1954. In 1977, he
earned the diploma of Geology from Aristotle
University of Thessaloniki. In 1978, he earned the
Diplôme d’Etudes Approfondies (DEA) de
« Sciences des Matières Minérales et Energétiques » from University P. et
M. Curies (Paris 6) of Paris. In 1984, he earned the doctorate (PhD) of
Applied Geology from the School of Geology of Aristotle University of
Thessaloniki.
He is author of 2 books and 6 web-university notes on soil mechanics, stone
characteristics, drilling activities and logging techniques. Furthermore, he is
author of 141 scientific papers published in international scientific journals
and international congresses, in the fields of engineering geology, soil and
rock mechanics and monument protection. His research interests are
engineering geology (landslides, urban planning, road constructions,
mechanical lab-tests) and monument protection (geotechnical stability,
non-destructive tests on materials). He was coordinator or thematic
responsible of 50 research projects, in Greece and in other countries.
Prof. Christaras is the director of the laboratory of “Engineering Geology &
Hydrogeology” and chairman of the “Program of Postgraduate Studies” on
“Applied & Environmental Geology” in Aristotle University of
Thessaloniki. He is Chairman of the Commission 16 (Protection of
Monuments) of the “International Association of Engineering Geology and
the Environment (IAEG)”. He is also member of the Board of the “Institute
of Engineering Seismology and Earthquake Engineering”.
61

A Geological Classification of Rock Mass Quality and Blast Ability For Intermediate Spaced Formations

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A geological classification of rock mass quality

GEOLOGICAL STRENGTH INDEX FOR

Smooth, moderately weathered and altered surfaces

Slickenside, highly weathered surfaces with soft

compact coatings of rillings or angular fragments

Very rough, fresh unweathered surfaces

clay coatings or fillings

STRUCTURE DECREASING SURFACE QUALITY

BLOCKY - well interlocked

formed by three intersecting

VERY BLOCKY - interlocked,

weathered and altered

weathered surfaces with

compact coatings of rillings

iron stained surfaces

Rough, slightly weathered,

45 Mohs 8-10 40 Mohs 5-10 Mohs 5-7 30

70 40 Mohs 8-10 40 40 55 40 Mohs 5-10

55 Mohs 5-7 Mohs 1-7 50

From easy to very easy blasting

From easy to very easy blasting

DECREASING INTERLOCKING OF ROCK PIECES

rock pieces Mohs 5-10 25 35 25

Fig.2. BQS for intermediate spaced discontinuities

INTERMEDIATE SPACED DISCONTINUITIES

compact coatings of rillings or

Rough, slightly weathered,

INTACT OF MASSIVE - intact

45 Mohs 8-10 40 Mohs 5-7 30

SEAMY- folded with angular 4 & 8-10 50

Mohs 5-7 Mohs 1-7 50 Mohs 1-4

From easy to very easy blasting

DECREASING INTERLOCKING OF ROCK PIECES

Prof. Basile Christaras was born in Thessaloniki

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