An in-depth stability assessment of the underground caverns is carried out, with scope of

evaluating possible structurally induced instability and stress induced instabilities for the
caverns. The analysis includes analytical, empirical and numerical methods. The analysis
detected low cumulative probability for block fall, brittle failure in the cavern roof and tensile
fracturing in the cavern walls extending towards slope face due to magnitude and anisotropy in
the redistributed stresses. The stress induced instabilities are more extensive than structurally
induced instabilities in both cavern alignments due to its placement, orientation, shape and size.
Probabilistic Unwedge analysis is done to assess the structurally induced stability problems.
Analytical and empirical studies involve Kirsch’s equations and Hoek and Brown (1980)
methods to assess the redistribution and concentration of stresses in the cavern contour. Spalling
potential and depth of brittle failure is estimated based on cavern span, rock mass spalling
strength and tangential stresses. The results are compared to estimation of failure depth from
numerical analysis using analysis of strength factor with Hoek-Brown brittle parameters in 2D
finite element program, Phase2. 3D finite element analysis (RS3) is carried out for the final
selected cavern alignment. Reasonable difference between analytical/empirical and numerical
approach is found considering caverns location in low rock cover and near tow slope.
Support measures are proposed based on empirical relations, recommendations from the RMR,
Q-system and analysis of yielding and deformation from the numerical results.
From assessment of engineering geological conditions and in-depth stability analysis, it is
considered feasible to obtain a satisfactory level of stability for original alignment, considering
the rock mass properties and stress conditions that are most likely to occur. However, the
numerical analysis carried out for worst case scenario showed significant stability problems.
If such conditions prevail in the area, placing large scale cavern may be challenging regarding
stability during construction and long term stability aspects.
Joint Roughness Factor
( JR)
Joint
Condition
Factor (Jc)
Joint Alteration Factor
( JA) JL * JR/JA

Joint Size Factor ( JL)

Jointing Parameter Jp

Block
Joint Spacings or Joint Volume (Vb)
Density