33 - Examples of Rock Engineering in Chile

Abstract

This chapter presents examples of rock engineering in Chile. The case histories presented in the chapter emphasize the use of rather simple analytical or numerical tools, combined with field observations, instrumentation, and engineering judgment to solve practical problems. Field observations and monitoring are extremely important tools in the validation of the analytical results. Rock mechanics in Chile evolved from an almost unknown discipline to an organized science. Most of the engineering applications cover rather simple or traditional aspects. The main rock types are volcanic breccia and andesite. These volcanic rocks are nearly flat lying, with welded contacts. The inlet tunnel is located mainly in the volcanic breccia, a massive and uniform rock with a laboratory-measured, unconfined compressive strength ranging from 15 to 28 MPa but locally ranging from 8 to 18 MPa. The andesite is stronger and more fractured. The chapter describes the application of rock engineering principles to the design of flexible linings in a sector of El Salvador copper mine.