Author(s) :

Boniface Mumbim Atalatala, Omer Kawende, Ivon Ndala, André Mampuya Nzita, Clément N’zau Umba-Di-Mbudi, Jean Baptiste Mianza Kapit.

Volume/Issue :

Abstract :

Underground hydroelectric facilities constitute strategic infrastructure whose stability depends heavily on the geological, geotechnical, geophysical, and hydrodynamic characteristics of the surrounding rock mass. This study focuses on the intake tunnel of the Zongo II hydroelectric project, located in the Inkisi basin in Kongo Central, Democratic Republic of Congo. It aims to analyze the relationships between the fracturing of feldspathic sandstones and their mechanical, geophysical, and hydrodynamic properties in order to assess the stability of the structure and the risks of groundwater infiltration. The methodology adopted is based on an integrated approach combining geological and structural investigations, laboratory geotechnical tests, geophysical measurements using seismic refraction, and Lugeon hydraulic tests carried out in several boreholes. Forty-two measurement stations were distributed along the tunnel to ensure spatial representativeness of the data. The relationships between geomechanical, geophysical, and hydrodynamic parameters were statistically analyzed using Pearson's correlation coefficient in the Python Anaconda environment. The results show that the rock mass is generally compact, resistant, and has low permeability. Strong positive correlations between RMR, Q-system, RQD, UCS, and Vp indicate good geomechanical quality and high rock compactness. Conversely, negative correlations with hydrodynamic parameters indicate that fractured zones promote water infiltration and reduce local stability. This study concludes that integrating geotechnical, geophysical, and hydrodynamic approaches is an effective tool for improving the safety, durability, and management of underground hydroelectric facilities.

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