Geomechanical characterization and numerical modelling of an open pit and underground marble quarry

The paper aims to present a case of an open pit marble and underground quarry. The rock mass characterization has been based on laboratory mechanical tests on marble, geostructural exploration of joint sets, and in situ testing of rock stress by means of hydrofracturing tests. Numerical models of the quarry have been conceived to evaluate the behaviour of the excavation, and to relate the measured stress state of the rock mass to the numerical results. An evaluation of possible influence of the joints on the stopes stability is furthermore made.