Selection of lidar technology for limestone quarry in Thailand

Abstract

Thailand produces construction aggregates from limestone, basalt and granite quarries. In one of limestone quarry, expansion of quarry is planned.With increase in limestone production, optimum blasting performance in terms of fragmentation and gradation is critical. Limestone is identified as weathered, highly weathered and massive limestone based on previous exploration. Based on geological strength index, limestone is classified as blocky, very blocky, blocky/seamy and disintegrated. Further observation is required on geological discontuities for all quarry faces. This paper evaluates technological options of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) with photogrammetry and Lidar technology with digital images for recording and storing data of geological discontinuities.