Utilising Equotip Leeb hardness testing for rock strength estimation and geotechnical domain definition

Authors: Tasse, E; Gallant, K; Veltin, K; Ducharme-Rivest, S Download Paper Open access courtesy of:

DOI https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/2465_69

Cite As:
Tasse, E, Gallant, K, Veltin, K & Ducharme-Rivest, S 2024, 'Utilising Equotip Leeb hardness testing for rock strength estimation and geotechnical domain definition', in P Andrieux & D Cumming-Potvin (eds), Deep Mining 2024: Proceedings of the 10th International Conference on Deep and High Stress Mining, Australian Centre for Geomechanics, Perth, pp. 1079-1090, https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/2465_69



Abstract:
Rock strength estimation plays a fundamental role in geotechnical engineering and mining. Incorporating additional sources of data to reduce uncertainty in estimates will therefore lead to improved confidence in site characterisation and subsequent design. Equotip Leeb hardness testing has emerged as a widely accepted technique for estimating the hardness of rocks. Its practicability, non-destructive nature, and repeatability make it an excellent tool to obtain strength information which complements other tests such as point load tests (PLT), laboratory strength tests, and field hardness estimates. This study presents a methodology used to process Equotip Leeb hardness measurements and a methodology to evaluate how these results can be used to identify trends and patterns within the rock mass, helping define geotechnical domains. This paper outlines the approach used for the analysis of Leeb hardness measurements collected on core samples. The authors will discuss the data collection process and pre-processing techniques, as well as the statistical analysis used to establish correlation factors between the Leeb hardness measurements, PLT, and uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) results. The paper will present the findings from this analysis and discuss how the results were utilised to inform the geotechnical domains. Lastly, the authors will discuss the potential for use of Equotip datasets in other applications, such as resource estimation or identification of weak zones where additional ground support would be required. This source of additional data can provide valuable insight into the overall understanding of a site's geological characteristics within the mining area and assist with design refinement prior to construction phases.

Keywords: Leeb hardness, Equotip, intact strength, UCS, characterisation, domaining

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