Rock quality designation (RQD) is a standard technique in the mining industry for the qualitative and quantitative assessment of rock quality and degree of jointing, fracturing, and shearing in a rock mass.
RQD is defined as the percentage of intact drill core pieces longer than 10 cm recovered during a single core run (Abzalov, 2016).
What is RQD used?
Rock Quality Designation (RQD) is a tool used to characterize rock masses and is used for many purposes, including:
Estimating rock mass properties: RQD can be used to estimate the deformation modulus, unconfined compressive strength, and bearing capacity of rock masses.
- Identifying potential problems: RQD can help identify potential problems with rock foundations, such as bearing capacity, settlement, erosion, or sliding.
- Warning indicator: RQD can be used as a warning indicator for low-quality rock zones that may require additional investigation.
- Component of classification systems: RQD is a component of many rock mass classification.
Source: LEARN GEOLOGY (WhatsApp Channel)
