ROCK EVALUATION FOR ENGINEERED FACILITIES

Abstract

An engineering classification system was designed for intact rock samples based on simple index tests that could be used to categorize Kentucky surface and near-surface rock types and to assist Kentucky Department of Transportation personnel in planning for transportation facilities. While the literature survey was being conducted, several facts became apparent: (a) A large number of geologic and technical and general and specific rock classification systems already existed: (b) an equally large number of index tests had been devised; and (c) there was a lack of communication among geologists and civil and mining engineers involved in specialized areas of rock-related work and, to some extent, among individuals within each field. It was evident from a careful study of existing classification systems and index testing procedures that developing yet another specialized classification system with associated index tests would not be a significant contribution. It was decided, therefore, to concentrate on development of an overall rock evaluation schema that, although useful for a specific purpose, would avoid the undesirable disparate characteristics of narrowness or overgeneralization prevalent in many classification systems and that would be developed so that accumulated information could be systematically stored for easy access and use. It was apparent that full development and implementation of a program of this nature would require further studies and cooperation of many individuals and organizations. Such a program, properly developed and used, would substantially contribute to an advancement, and a delineation of the schema and guidelines for its implementation would be a worthy goal.