Application of alternative methods for determination of rock quality designation (RQD) index: a case study from the Rožná I uranium mine, Strážek Moldanubicum, Bohemian Massif, Czech Republic

Abstract

A comparison of rock quality designation (RQD) parameters obtained by drill core analysis and the RQD determined using alternative methods is presented using metamorphic rocks such as migmatized gneisses, migmatites, and amphibolites. Methods of borehole–wall imaging using high-resolution acoustic logging, optical televiewer, and simple video inspection as well as the structural analysis of exploration drift walls oriented subparallel to the analysed boreholes are used for alternatively evaluated RQD values. Results show that, in most cases, the RQD index measured directly on a drill core section reaches lower values (about 10%–30%) than the RQD evaluated by alternative methods. Significant differences in determination of the rock mass failure degree using classical and alternative methods may occur, especially in sections with higher frequency of the metamorphic foliation planes created by biotite-rich bands or by dark-coloured melanosome layers. The nature of biotite itself is favourable for the creation of pre-disposed jointing planes, in which the increased drill core disintegration caused by drilling technology or core handling can occur. Results show it is highly appropriate to make these comparisons on a larger scale and thus verify whether the observed differences affect the qualitative classification of the rock mass.