Abstract
Obtaining accurate and comprehensive fracture geometric parameters to characterize the discrete fracture network (DFN) by fracture mapping is an important basis for evaluating the stability and seepage characteristics of rock mass. In this research, a combination of LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) and DPBCS (Digital Panoramic Borehole Camera System) was applied to map the rock discontinuities of a copper mine, and the fracture geometric parameters of the outcrop and subsurface in the fractured rock mass were recognized and counted. Based on the case study, this research proposed a fracture mapping method by a combination of LiDAR with DPBCS and established a new workflow for the collection of a range of fracture geometry parameter data (mainly orientation, trace length, fracture density, and aperture) to generate DFN. Results show that the combination of LiDAR with DPBCS taken for fracture mapping provides accurate fracture geometric parameter data that is representative of local fracture network attributes and involves data collection of a wider range (outcrop and subsurface) of fracture attributes than other mapping techniques alone; it is easier to generate DFN based on those geometry parameters, avoiding the complex deduction processes of fracture density; and the generated DFN is more accurate, with the calculated permeability coefficient that differs by only 3.80% from the value measured by field pumping test.
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The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author.
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Funding
This research was funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 42072304), the Science and Technology Innovation Program of Hunan Province (2021RC3009), and the Natural Science Foundation of Hunan Province (2021JJ40726).
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Zeng, F., Shu, B. & Shen, Q. A combination of Light Detection and Ranging with Digital Panoramic Borehole Camera System in fracture mapping to characterize discrete fracture networks. Bull Eng Geol Environ 82, 249 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10064-023-03274-5
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10064-023-03274-5