Application of the limit equilibrium method to determine the safety factor for ornamental rocks

Abstract The state of Espirito Santo is the most important producer and exporter of ornamental quarry stone. In its various quarries, it uses bench heights that range from 5, 20, 50 and 100 meters. The high altitudes raise concerns about the stability of the slopes. Therefore, the study focuses on determining the value of the safety factor (SF) for these heights using the limit equilibrium method. To make this possible, the values of simple uniaxial compression, Geological Strength Index (GSI), the disturbance factor, and intact rock parameter must be obtained. To obtain the GSI, it is necessary to establish a correlation with the Rock Mass Rating, the values of which are determined using a scan line. The uniaxial compression values were treated statistically, obtaining classes at 75, 100, 125, 150, 175, and 200 Mpa. The 2D slide software was used to obtain the SF values for the respective heights. With the results obtained, these rocks do not present stability problems. The correct choice of GSI is of paramount importance for a good analysis, as it directly affects the results. Using this technique to determine safety factors is appropriate, but it is necessary to analyze more robust methods to compare the results.