Volume 1, Issue 1 — Year 2024 — Article e100008

Naser Abbasi¹; Elmira Fakor²; Mahdi Nikbakht³

1. Faculty of Engineering, Maragheh University of Technology, Maragheh 5518183111, Iran
2. Faculty of Engineering, Maragheh University of Technology, Maragheh 5518183111, Iran
3. Department of Civil Engineering Islamic Azad University, Tabriz Branch, Tabriz 5158913791, Iran

The Slope Mass Rating (SMR) system is a widely used method by geoengineers and geologists to assess the stability of rock slopes, such as those found along highways, in mines, or near dams. It helps evaluate the likelihood of slope failure and identify any necessary measures to prevent rock instabilities. In this study, the SMR classification system was applied to analyze the stability of 10 slopes in the Azarshahr province, located in northwest Iran. Each slope underwent a standard geotechnical investigation, including the collection of block samples, which were tested using index rock mechanics methods such as uniaxial compressive strength (UCS), point-load tests, and Schmidt hammer rebound tests. The SMR classification results revealed that the slopes in Azarshahr range from partially stable to completely stable. Potential failures were linked to the development of joints, wedges, or blocks, with varying levels of risk. Where necessary, occasional support systems were recommended to improve stability. These findings offer important insights into the region's slope stability and provide guidance for potential mitigation strategies.

Swelling soils, Geotechnical analysis, Soil behavior, Engineering solutions, Soil control methods