The threat posed by dangerous rock masses, particularly those found in mountainous regions, is contributing to increased concerns about safety and infrastructure integrity across the world. A new case study sheds light on the serious risks these geological formations present to railways, particularly with the possibility of catastrophic rockfalls threatening both safety and economic stability.
Conducted on the Baima Tunnel area of the Yu-Huai Railway in Chongqing, China, this research employs systematic risk assessment methodologies to evaluate high and steep giant dangerous rock masses. The study highlights how rock masses, defined primarily by their size and precarious positioning, can pose significant risks if not managed properly. According to the China Geological Environment Information Network, over 10,000 geological disasters occur annually, with rockfalls constituting around 20% of these, creating urgent demand for effective mitigation strategies.
Researchers utilized various methods including on-site investigation, limit equilibrium methods, and simulation analyses to assess the potential for collapse and associated rockfall hazards. Notably, findings indicated severe instability, with the study noting the overturning moment on the rock mass to be 500,033.29 kN·m—yielding safety factors below the acceptable threshold of 1 for several risk scenarios.
When such dangerous rock masses collapse, the resulting rockfall can lead to significant velocity and kinetic energy, posing grave threats to immediate structures such as tunnels and railway bridges. A core finding is the significant likelihood of rockfalls occurring near these transportation infrastructures, raising alarms about the potential for property damage and personal injury.
To combat these threats, the study introduces innovative engineering approaches, including the deployment of double anchoring section prestressed anchor cables. This new anchoring technology is seen as pivotal for reinforcing dangerous rock masses, effectively minimizing the risk of collapse. It addresses common challenges associated with traditional anchoring methods, particularly the loss of prestress and the durability of anchoring systems under varying geological conditions.
The extensive investigations also encompassed both geological and environmental factors contributing to the risk of rockfalls including weathering and heavy rainfall, which exacerbate underlying instabilities. Degrees of fracture were measured, with some cracks measured at over 1.45 meters. With this comprehensive framework, the researchers aim to provide solutions to engineering challenges faced when dealing with hazardous rock formations.
Part of the study emphasizes the need for immediate remediation of unstable rock masses. Through the careful implementation of the new anchoring technology along with thorough geological assessments, experts propose effective strategies to uphold the safety and functionality of key transportation routes.
Given the economic importance of rail networks and potential hazards not only to infrastructure but also to human life, the outcomes of this study could have far-reaching benefits. The suggested remedial actions are expected to reinforce stability, significantly reducing risk exposure, and enhancing the long-term resilience of railways traversing mountainous terrains. With this research, the authors contribute valuable insights aimed at fostering sustainable development practices within the engineering community, demonstrating proactive approaches to managing geological hazards effectively.
The use of advanced geological assessment and mitigation techniques is becoming increasingly necessary as the prevalence of geological disasters hones the dialogue surrounding infrastructure safety. Novel technologies stemming from this research might become standard practice not only within China but globally, wherever dangerous rock masses are situated.