Challenge

As the Rhyolite Ridge Lithium-Boron Project advanced toward mine planning and regulatory review, the project team needed an independent technical evaluation of quarry wall stability supported by complex geotechnical, geologic, and hydrogeologic data. The challenge required integrating data from multiple drilling campaigns, validating engineering assumptions, and assessing whether proposed wall designs met safety and stability criteria under both static and seismic loading conditions.

Solution

Geo-Logic Associates provided independent geotechnical engineering and technical review services, combining rigorous data evaluation with advanced stability modeling. Our team integrated data from three major drilling programs, oversaw laboratory testing, developed updated geologic and topographic cross-sections, and performed limit equilibrium analyses using Rocscience Slide2 software. We prepared and evaluated more than 100 stability cross-sections, assessed static and pseudostatic conditions, validated model inputs and assumptions, and collaborated closely with the mine designer and Ioneer to identify potential design deficiencies and recommend optimized wall configurations for multiple phases of mining. Throughout the project, GLA applied interdisciplinary expertise in geotechnical engineering, hydrogeology, mining geology, and QA/QC to ensure technically defensible results.

Results

GLA delivered a comprehensive, regulatory-ready stability evaluation that supported informed mine planning and permitting decisions. Our analysis confirmed stability performance, identified opportunities for design refinement, and provided clear recommendations aligned with mine safety and regulatory requirements. The final technical memorandum documented methodologies, assumptions, analyses, and conclusions in a format suitable for regulatory review, demonstrating GLA’s ability to independently evaluate complex engineering deliverables and provide trusted technical oversight for critical mining infrastructure.

Successful mine development starts with confidence in the data, models, and engineering decisions behind it. By combining independent technical review with advanced geotechnical analysis, we help clients reduce uncertainty, strengthen regulatory outcomes, and move projects forward with confidence.” —Jason Hefner, PE – Project Manager