CASE STUDY: ROCKFALL MITIGATION AT A HIGHWAY SLOPE IN SUICHUAN COUNTY, CHINA
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.14311/CEJ.2025.02.0019Keywords:
Rockfall, Slope monitoring, InSAR, Prevention engineeringAbstract
Proper stability analysis of potential rockfall and appropriate prevention measures are essential for ensuring highway safety. This study investigated a rock slope along the G105 National Highway in Suichuan, Jiangxi, China. The stability evaluation of the slope was carried out through theory analysis combined with on-the-site surveys. The slope is stable under normal conditions but exhibits a state of basic stability-to-unstable or instability during extreme weather condition or seismic activities, necessitating protective design. Numerical simulation was conducted to assess the risk of rockfall movements. The translational velocity, bouncing height, kinetic energy, and deposition distribution of different rock volumes during the falling process were simulated. The kinetic energy of rockfall is primarily related to the volume of rock mass, while translational velocity, bouncing height, and deposition distribution are closely associated with the cross-sectional conditions. Based on the evaluation results, suitable reinforcement measures were selected, and the slope was monitored using InSAR technology and automatic monitoring technology. The combination of drone scanning, modeling, automated monitoring techniques, and InSAR technology effectively reduces uncertainties in risk assessment. Based on the evaluation results, the application of active energy-absorbing protection nets and other preventive measures were proposed, demonstrating a satisfactory protective effect. The case study will provide valuable engineering guidance for rockfall analysis and prevention along highway slopes.
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