Pötsch, M, Pischinger, G & Schubert, W 2007, 'Dealing with Uncertain Parameters in Rock Slope Stability Analysis', in Y Potvin (ed.), Slope Stability 2007: Proceedings of the 2007 International Symposium on Rock Slope Stability in Open Pit Mining and Civil Engineering, Australian Centre for Geomechanics, Perth, pp. 129-141, https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/708_7
(https://papers.acg.uwa.edu.au/p/708_7_Potsch/)
Abstract: The failure mechanisms of hard rock slopes are usually dominated by the joint and fault system of the rock 
mass, the properties of which show an inherent spread. The stability assessment according to block theory 
on the contrary follows a deterministic procedure. The determination of representative values for the 
analysis is therefore crucial. This paper addresses the steps for a slope stability assessment based on block 
theory. The focus is set on the kinematical analysis. The parameters involved in these analytical steps are 
discussed and their determination and statistical behaviour described. The kinematical analysis is illustrated 
using a simple polyhedral block. It is shown that non-daylighting joints may also increase the kinematical 
movability of a block. A case study outlines the determination of relevant rock mass parameters through field 
mapping and 3D imaging, the probabilistic data processing using simplified kinematical analyses, and the 
application in rock slope engineering. The result of the study is an optimised slope orientation easing further 
excavation without any need of additional measures.