Understanding the genesis of mass transport deposits (MTDs) for safe mining planning: Anhovo Quarry, Western Slovenia

Abstract

Understanding the factors that contribute to anisotropic slopes instability provides important information for safe mining operations in flysch-type units. This work presents the results of sedimentological and structural analyses performed in the Anhovo Quarry (Western Slovenia), where carbonate-rich material is excavated from exhumed mass transport deposits (MTDs), generated by submarine landslides during late Paleocene. The architecture of mine design presents major challenges in terms of ideal configuration for optimized mining processes in one the largest MTDs, the Rodez Unit. A gradual increase in complexity of the slope failure mechanism is associated with different localized degrees of lithification and diagenesis depending directly on the mass transport processes. An estimation of the stability of the quarry walls is therefore based on the correct understanding of the distribution of structural features and anisotropies caused by the depositional characters of the MTD, such as paleo-transport directions, erosive potential and relationships with the basin physiography. Quarry operation planning in MTDs requires a multilayered approach for the geomechanical stability analysis, especially in terms of genesis, diagenesis, and anthropogenic activity. .