RMR and Q - Setting Record Straight

This article describes the appropriate use of the rock mass rating (RMR) and rock mass quality index (Q) quantitative measures for the analysis of geology for such applications as tunnel excavation projects. It is noted that, in addition to being a far more economically sound method for the analysis of geology when compared to in situ testing, both RMR and Q were the first alternatives to purely qualitative descriptions of local geologies. These measures are important, the author notes, for six main reasons: 1) they were developed specifically for estimating support in tunnels by assessing rock mass properties; 2) they do not rely on assumptions for analysis as in situ requires; 3) they are essential to assess the appropriate support class for the excavation; 4) updates to the quantifications have been implemented to cope with new technologies; 5) both RMR and Q have proved accurate for varying types of rock conditions; and, 6) tunnel boring machine (TBM) prognoses are now based upon the measures. In addition, the authors explain some concerns engineers have had with the measures and provide detailed guidelines for the proper use of these quantitative analyses.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/issn/0041414X
• Authors:
  • Barton, Nick
  • Bieniawski, Z T
• Publication Date: 2008-2

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: Print
• Features: Figures; References;
• Pagination: pp 26-29
• Serial:
  • Tunnels & Tunnelling International
  • Publisher: Progressive Media Markets, Ltd
  • ISSN: 0041-414X

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Engineering geology; Excavation and tunneling; Rock excavation; Rock mechanics
• Uncontrolled Terms: Rock mass classification
• Subject Areas: Bridges and other structures; Construction; Geotechnology; Highways; Public Transportation; I43: Rock Mechanics; I54: Construction of Tunnels;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01091011
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: UC Berkeley Transportation Library
• Files: BTRIS, TRIS
• Created Date: Mar 31 2008 8:04AM