As construction projects expand into challenging terrains, particularly in mountainous regions, the need for advanced safety measures becomes paramount. A recent study led by Heng Li from the School of Civil and Resource Engineering at the University of Science and Technology Beijing introduces a groundbreaking quantitative identification method for unstable sliding rock masses, a crucial development for the construction sector.
With major infrastructure projects like the Sichuan–Tibet Railway under the auspices of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, the risks posed by unstable rock formations are increasingly significant. Traditional methods of assessing rock stability often fall short, primarily focusing on the stability factor (SF), which merely indicates whether a rock mass is stable or unstable, without detailing the transition phase. This gap in assessment capabilities poses a serious threat to project safety and integrity.
Li’s research addresses this critical issue by introducing the cohesive stability factor (CSF), which allows for a more nuanced evaluation of rock stability. “The CSF offers a dynamic perspective on the stability and damage phases of slip-type rock masses,” Li explained. By analyzing the potential sliding surface cohesion and its slip resistance, the study establishes that when the CSF falls below 1 and the ratio of cohesion to skid resistance (η) dips below a certain threshold, sliding rock masses become unstable.
The implications of this research are profound. In practical terms, the ability to quantitatively identify unstable rock masses could significantly enhance safety protocols in construction projects, particularly in high-risk areas like the Chongqing Three Gorges. “Our improved method provides objective judgment criteria that enhance the accuracy of traditional mechanical identification methods,” Li noted, emphasizing the method’s potential to transform risk management in construction.
This innovative approach not only promises to mitigate the dangers associated with rockslides but also offers commercial benefits. By improving safety assessments, construction firms can reduce the likelihood of costly delays and accidents, ultimately leading to more efficient project timelines and budget management. As infrastructure development continues to surge, particularly in geologically complex areas, the adoption of such advanced evaluation methods could become a standard practice, shaping the future of construction safety protocols.
The findings, published in the journal Engineering Science, highlight a significant advancement in rock mass stability evaluation. As the construction industry increasingly grapples with the challenges posed by environmental factors, the integration of the CSF into standard assessment practices could pave the way for safer and more resilient infrastructure development.
For more information about Heng Li and his work, visit School of Civil and Resource Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing.
