quarryability
Quarryability refers to the ease with which a rock body can be excavated, fragmented, and processed in a quarry setting. It is influenced by rock properties, structural geology, and the available extraction and processing technology, and it is ultimately bounded by economic considerations such as market demand and operating costs.
Key geological factors include strength and stiffness (such as uniaxial compressive strength and modulus), rock mass
Assessment methods use rock quality indicators (RQD, RMR, Q-system), along with UCS, point load strength index,
Extraction methods include drilling, blasting, and rock splitting; alternative techniques such as wire saws may be
Economic and environmental factors influence quarryability through energy costs, equipment availability, market quality requirements, transportation distance,