A METHOD FOR THE STUDY OF CRACK PROPAGATION IN ROCK STRUCTURES
A method is presented for analysing the stability of rock structures based on the propagation of geological discontinuities. Discontinuities are modelled as flat cracks and their propagation is analysed using fracture mechanics methods. As rock structures are brittle, these phenomena can be studied using linear elastic fracture mechanics (LEFM). Problems in the application of LEFM methods are analysed, with regard to the states of compressive stress present in rock. A numerical procedure is described which simulates the propagation of natural discontinuities in rock; the crack propagation trajectories determined from this analysis are compared with experimental results obtained on mortar specimens. The applicability of the method to the study of rock mass stability is shown with reference to the behaviour of rock slopes. (A)
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Availability:
- Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/issn/00168505
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Corporate Authors:
Thomas Telford Limited
London, United Kingdom -
Authors:
- Scavia, C
- Publication Date: 1995-9
Language
- English
Media Info
- Features: References;
- Pagination: p. 447-63
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Serial:
- GEOTECHNIQUE
- Volume: 45
- Issue Number: 3
- Publisher: Thomas Telford Limited
- ISSN: 0016-8505
Subject/Index Terms
- TRT Terms: Calculation; Compression; Cracking; Discrete systems; Elasticity (Mechanics); Mathematical analysis; Mathematical models; Methodology; Rock mechanics; Rocks; Shape; Stability (Mechanics); Strength of materials
- Uncontrolled Terms: Discontinuous
- ITRD Terms: 6471: Analysis (math); 6464: Calculation; 5532: Compression; 5211: Cracking; 9015: Discontinuous; 5912: Elasticity; 6473: Mathematical model; 9102: Method; 4154: Rock; 5757: Rock mechanics; 9073: Shape; 5930: Stability; 5544: Strength (mater)
- Subject Areas: Geotechnology;
Filing Info
- Accession Number: 00714445
- Record Type: Publication
- Source Agency: Transport Research Laboratory
- Files: ITRD
- Created Date: Dec 27 1995 12:00AM