Avaliação geotécnica e análise cinemática da Cachoeira do Mascate como subsídio ao ecoturismo em Coromandel, Minas Gerais

This paper presents a geological and geotechnical evaluation combined with a kinematic analysis of Mascate Waterfall, located in the Triângulo Mineiro and Alto Paranaíba mesoregion. It also explores potential implications for regional ecotourism. The rock massif is composed exclusively of quartzite, characterized by incipient foliation and varying degrees of weathering. The quartzite beds exhibit a dip direction of 210°, with dips ranging from 16° to 54° to SW. The waterfall slope is oriented at 045° with an average dip of 75° to NE. The Rock Quality Designation (RQD) index classifies the rock mass as “Regular”, while the Rock Mass Rating (RMR) designates it as Class III (“Reasonable”). Kinematic analyses indicate potential failure types with the following probabilities: planar (9%), wedge (29%), direct toppling (26%), oblique toppling (1%), and flexural toppling (3%). Planar failures are predominantly controlled by NW-SE-oriented fractures with subvertical dips. Direct and oblique toppling failures occur along the metamorphic foliation. The calculated safety factor of 1.30 suggests stable conditions for the waterfall slope regarding different types of ruptures. However, heavy rainfall between November to March can lead to greater slope instability, increasing the likelihood of rupture. The base of the waterfall is surrounded by numerous fallen boulders, suggesting significant gravitational mass movements. Based on the geological, geotechnical, and kinematic analysis of Cachoeira do Mascate, simple actions are proposed to reduce potential geological risks.