Abstract
Laboratory tests on Teton Dam soil were performed by increasing the water pressure in model bore holes and in simulated rock joints. The water pressure required to cause hydraulic fracturing was found to depend on soil density, water content, confining stress and test duration. On the basis of the test results it was hypothesized that: (1)Hydraulic fracturing is a weak link phenomenon, in that fracturing will occur in the least resistant soil subjected to increased water pressure; and (2)hydraulic fracturing can probably occur only in the presence of a discontinuity, within which the water pressure can act to create a wedging mechanism, thus creating tensile stresses in the soil.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
