Numerical Investigation Of Mining-Induced, Hydromechanically-Coupled Responses For A Nevada Mine Site
Presenter: Gillian Noonan1
Co-Author(s): Loren Lorig, Geoff Beale
Advisor(s): Dr. P.A. Ty Ferré
1Department of Hydrology and Atmospheric Sciences, University of Arizona
Understanding the coupled interaction of rock and water under stress is often a key factor in assessing slope stability in open pit mining. In this paper, a numerical modeling research project is presented which demonstrates the concept of hydromechanical coupling (HMC) and assesses the sensitivity of contributing parameters to pressure responses observed in piezometers due to excavation on a mine slope. Site monitoring data showing HMC effects in a permeable, confined unit within a mine in Nevada is analyzed and reproduced using FLAC. This research aims to promote the understanding of HMC in pit slopes and provide improved guidance on how to plan mining activity, monitoring and slope design to incorporate the benefit of HMC effects.