Application of kinematic admissibility and limit equilibrium analysis to optimize the geometry of exploitation of a quarry in the canton of León Cortes, San José, Costa Rica

Abstract

This is a study to establish the most favorable orientations of the slopes for the extraction of the material and to ensure the stability of a quarry. It includes the geomechanical characterization of the covering soils and the rock mass of the site, defining the relevant physical and mechanical parameters to meet the objectives of the work. The definition of the orientations of the main discontinuities drives the kinematic admissibility and limit equilibrium analyzes for the design of a stable exploitation slope geometry. Finally, conclusions and recommendations to guide the safe operation of the site are drawn.