Investigation of rockfall problem within the scope of Yusufeli dam relocation roads

Rockfall is defined as the downslope movement of loose (free) rock material under the influence of gravity. Due to the geological – geomorphological structure and climatic characteristics of our country, rockfalls occur in many parts of the country. Rockfalls are among natural disasters owing to the negative effects they create in the regions where they occur. The aim of this study is to define the rockfall problem that has occurred or has the potential to occur in the Yusufeli district of Artvin province, which is selected as the study area; to analyze the rockfall problem in 2D and 3D and to compare the results. There are units in the region with ages ranging from Jurassic to Quaternary. In the study area, rock falls may occur due to reasons such as fractures in Jurassic aged volcanic rocks, freezing and thawing effect and the apic morphology of the terrain. The geological features of falling or hanging rocks, joint - bedding conditions and dimensions of the layer were examined in the field studies. RocFall v7.0, v8.0 programs were used for 2D analyses and RocFall 3 programs were used for 3D analyses. The velocities, kinetic energies, end points and jump heights of the falling blocks were determined and the results were compared. As a result of these examinations, the advantages and disadvantages of 2D and 3D analyzes were revealed. Measures have been proposed to prevent falling or potentially falling rock blocks from hitting the road.