Application potentials and limits of rock reinforcement with polymer-based adhesives

Abstract

Gravitational mass movements, such as rockfalls or landslides, represent geo-risks that require geotechnical safety measures in order to avert monetary damage and to protect human life. For the targeted stabilization and consolidation of rock masses, the gluing of rock which is known from mining and tunnel construction, is ideal. Here, an adhesive is grouted into the rock fissures which, when cured, hold the rock together by means of adhesive and cohesive forces. The selection of the right adhesive is of great importance, as it has a decisive influence on the mechanical properties of the rock and thus determines the success of the securing measure. Various adhesives such as resins and acrylate gel were examined in an extensive experimental laboratory program which was expanded to include numerical simulations with FLAC3D. The subject of the laboratory tests are jointed sandstone samples. The test program of the rock mechanical standard tests was supplemented by special tests, such as adhesive tensile strength tests to determine the adhesion between adhesive and sandstone. In order to assess the effectiveness of the adhesive bond, glued and intact sandstone samples were compared. Based on the experimental and numerical investigations, the application possibilities and limits of different polymer-based adhesives are shown and an application recommendation is given.