Comparative Analysis of the Stability of Overlying Rock Mass for Two Types of Lined Rock Caverns Based on Rock Mass Classification

Abstract

Lined rock caverns (LRCs) are becoming the preferred option for air storage at sites where there are no natural cavities, such as salt caverns, and this storage technology is being developed and utilized in markets around the world. The stability of the overlying rock mass is one of the key factors to ensure the successful operation of LRCs. In this paper, a stability assessment method is presented that first calculates the potential fracture surfaces of the surrounding rock based on the limiting stress field and the Mohr–Coulomb damage criterion, and then, based on these fracture surfaces, solves for the factor of safety defined on the basis of the concept of strength reserve. Using this method, this study evaluates the stability of two types of LRCs, tunnel- and silo-type, under three different geological conditions. The results of the analysis show that the silo-type LRCs are more economical for engineering purposes. Also, this paper provides some guidance for engineers in site selection and preliminary design.