Shear strength analysis of grouted coal waste materials to improve mine outslope stability: a laboratory analysis

Abstract

Slope stability problems exist within the Appalachian Basin as a result of the emplacement of coal mine waste materials on mine outslopes. Prevention or elimination of slope instability problems can be costly. In an attempt to test alternative methods of slope stabilization, the United States Bureau of Mines determined some physical characteristics and shear strengths of ungrouted and polyurethenegrouted samples of coal refuse, coal spoil and natural soils collected at a number of mine outslope sites in Pennsylvania and West Virginia. The particle size distribution, per cent field porosity, per cent field water content and shear strengths of the materials were determined in the laboratory. Fifty drained direct shear strength tests were performed with the sample materials using a 0.06 m3 shear box. Tests were done at field moisture, 100% saturation and grout-infused conditions. Normal loads of 103 kN m−2, 206 kN m−2 and 416 kN m−2 were used. The grout-infused tests generally showed strength increases. An infinite slope model was used to demonstrate the potential effectiveness ofin situ grouting for a variety of field slope conditions. This modelling suggests thatin situ grouting has the potential of stabilizing slopes of up to 35° at depths of 14 m for refuse material and 30° at depths of 5 m for spoil and soil materials. The validity of these increases in material strength by grout injection will require field testing for confirmation.