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Over the last decade, terrestrial laser scanning and digital terrestrial photogrammetry techniques have been increasingly used in the geometrical characterization of rock slopes. These techniques provide innovative remote sensing tools which overcome the frequent problem of rock slope inaccessibility. Comprehensive datasets characterizing the structural geological setting and geometry of the slopes can be obtained. The derived information is very useful in rock slope investigations and finds application in a wide variety of geotechnical and mine operations. In this research an integrated remote sensing – GIS approach is proposed for the deterministic kinematic characterization of the Lorano open pit in the Apuan Alps of Italy. Based on the results of geomatic and engineering geological surveys, additional geomechanical analysis using a 3D finite difference method will be presented in order to provide a better understanding of the role of stress-induced damage on slope performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Current approaches to rocky slope stability analysis require knowledge of the geometrical–structural setting, as well as the physical–mechanical properties of the intact material and its discontinuities. The physical–mechanical properties are derived from in situ and laboratory tests, whereas the geometrical characteristics come from field attitude measurements. Frequently, the inaccessibility of walls does not allow direct measurement of discontinuity surfaces by traditional geological methods. In such cases, data can only be obtained by statistical methods. Although this approach is significant and provides spatial meaning, it is ineffective for deterministic analysis. This paper provides a solution to this problem by applying digital terrestrial photogrammetric techniques employing a reamed bar, an aerostatic balloon and a helicopter. Results demonstrate that the accuracy and the quantity of geometrical and engineering–geological data coming from the photogrammetric survey, allow for numerical simulation of the relationship between rock elements as a function of their physical–mechanical properties and load conditions. The 3DEC code was chosen among the different methods available to model the discontinuous media through distinct elements. The proposed methodology was applied to a quarry located in the Carrara Marble District (the Apuan Alps, Italy), the largest and most exploited mining region in Europe. The economic value of the area required a detailed study of the presence of instability phenomena so that marble extraction could continue in safe conditions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]