NUMERICAL MODELLING OF SLOPE STABILITY IN OPEN PIT LIGNITE MINES: A COMPARATIVE STUDY

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Published: Jul 27, 2016
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12681/bgsg.11773
Keywords:
geotechnical engineering shear strength finite elements finite difference limit equilibrium
A.V. Deliveris
Centre for Research & Technology Hellas - Chemical Process & Energy Resources Institute (CERTH - CPERI)
I.E. Zevgolis
Democritus University of Thrace, Department of Civil Engineering
N.C. Koukouzas
Centre for Research & Technology Hellas - Chemical Process & Energy Resources Institute (CERTH - CPERI)
Abstract

Slope stability of an open pit lignite mine was studied using numerical methods (FEM and FDM), by means of three different software packages whose performance was compared and similarities - differences were identified. Plane strain analyses were performed using the shear strength reduction technique under drained conditions and Mohr-Coulomb constitutive models. Based on the results, all three programs demonstrated qualitatively a good agreement in the determination of safety factors and the kinetics of the collapse mechanisms. Small differences were observed in terms of shear strains localizations. Important differences were evident in the development of plastic (shear) and tensile failure indicators. Nevertheless, the problem under examination may be addressed satisfactorily by all three programs.

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  • Engineering Geology, Hydrogeology, Urban Geology
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