Stability of Fractured Rock Massifs: Geotechnical Characterization: Case of the Excavation N°11 of the Taza‐Al Hoceima Expressway in Bouârma. (Al Hoceima, Northern Morocco)

International Journal of Civil Engineering

© 2025 by SSRG - IJCE Journal

Volume 12 Issue 3

Year of Publication : 2025

Authors : Youssef ElBalghiti, Mouna El Mkhalet, Nouzha Lamdouar

10.14445/23488352/IJCE-V12I3P106

How to Cite?

Youssef ElBalghiti, Mouna El Mkhalet, Nouzha Lamdouar, "Stability of Fractured Rock Massifs: Geotechnical Characterization: Case of the Excavation N°11 of the Taza‐Al Hoceima Expressway in Bouârma. (Al Hoceima, Northern Morocco)," SSRG International Journal of Civil Engineering, vol. 12,  no. 3, pp. 56-66, 2025. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/23488352/IJCE-V12I3P106

Abstract:

This article examines the geotechnical behavior of rock masses, emphasizing the role of discontinuities and the critical assessment of rock joints, which significantly influence the overall stability of the massif. The study focuses on several unstable sections of the Taza-Al Hoceima expressway in the Moroccan Rif mountains, an area notorious for landslide and rockfall risks. To quantitatively assess stability and better understand the rock massif's behavior, numerical modeling is conducted using the Joint Rock module specifically designed for discontinuous environments. This modeling simulates complex interactions between an intact rock and identified discontinuities, revealing potential weakness zones and sliding risks, particularly in unfavorable sections. In conclusion, this research highlights the necessity of a multidisciplinary approach that integrates geology, geotechnics, and numerical modeling for engineering projects in complex geological contexts characterized by high mechanical anisotropy. These findings contribute significantly to enhancing safety measures and informing design strategies in geotechnically challenging environments.

Keywords:

Stability, Geology, Risk, Rocky behavior, Numerical modeling.

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