Numerical modelling of biostabilisation for a coal mine overburden dump slope

Abstract

An integrated study on biological stabilisation of the dump slope has indicated that biological reclamation should be considered for long term stability of dump. The grasses have good soil binding capacity and help to control soil erosion and improve dump stability. Native grasses viz. Bamboo (Dendrocalmus strictus) and Kashi (Saccharum spontaneum) are the important constituents of grass species which can stabilise the dump slopes. Field observation of root development of these grass species has indicated that the roots can proliferate upto 0.5 m depth on a coal mine overburden dump after three years of vegetation. From the numerical modelling it has been analysed that roots of these grasses which significantly enhance the factor of safety of dump slope from 1.2 to 1.4 have a positive role in maintaining long term stability.