Structural modeling and geomechanical zoning of a tunnel in a rock mass in São José, Santa Catarina

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5007/2177-5230.2025.e105705

Keywords:

3D modeling, Geomechanics, Rock Mass Rating

Abstract

The increasing demand for underground space utilization has driven the advancement of methodologies for geomechanical analysis of rock masses. This study developed a 3D model to represent discontinuities and geomechanical units of the rock mass in Tunnel 4, part of the Florianópolis Bypass in São José, Santa Catarina, Brazil. A total of 604 geomechanical mappings were analyzed, accounting for 1422 structural measurements of discontinuities, classified using the Rock Mass Rating (RMR) system. The findings revealed geomechanical variability throughout the tunnel, with lower-quality zones concentrated near the portals due to rock alteration and reduced integrity. Geomechanical classes were defined, with Class III being the most predominant, interspersed with Classes II, IV, and V based on RMR scores. The model facilitated the visualization of structural patterns, such as the influence of lineaments on rock mass quality and correlations among parameters like strength, RQD, and water infiltration. These insights provide a foundation for assessing tunnel stability and planning future underground projects.

Author Biographies

Yan Budni de Souza Costa, UFSC

Graduated in Geology from the Federal University of Santa Catarina. Has experience with geoscience-related software and knowledge in geology, with a focus on geotechnics, slope stability, petrology, GIS, and structural geology.

Murilo da Silva Espíndola, UFSC

Engenheiro Civil e Professor Associado da UFSC, com Mestrado e Doutorado em Geotecnia. Atua em mecânica de rochas, enrocamentos, estabilidade de encostas, rejeitos e obras geotécnicas. Coordena o Laboratório de Geotecnia Aplicada, é subcoordenador do PPGGeologia e vice-líder do GESEG-UFSC. Trabalha na área desde 2006 e integra a ISSMGE e a ABMS.

Bruno Osmar Gonzatto, UFSC

Geologist. Holds a Bachelor's degree (2020) and a Master's degree (2023) in Geology from the Federal University of Santa Catarina. Has experience in projects focused on geophysical well analysis and the use of machine learning (MRGC). Also experienced in facies, petrographic, and physical-mechanical property characterization of sandstones in turbidite systems, linked to the MLTurb/UFSC project. Has interests in petrophysics, geomechanics, programming, and teaching/education.

References

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Published

2025-12-19

Issue

Vol. 40 No. 94 (2025): Geosul

Section

Artigos

License

Licença Creative Commons
Este trabalho está licenciado com uma Licença Creative Commons - Atribuição 4.0 Internacional.