Review on the Estimation of Static Deformability Modulus of Rocks and their adoptability in Different Rock Masses

Abstract

The aim of this study is to review the different mechanisms employed in the estimation of static rock mass deformability modulus (𝐸𝑚) in rock engineering applications and to investigate the adoptability of the identified mechanisms in different rock masses. The paper discusses different evaluation criteria through experimental, empirical and other means, with their merits and demerits, including influential factors. It is known that deformability modulus of intact rock depends on the imposed stress, strain rate and the confining stress on the rock sample as well as the rock texture and structure. The results generated for 𝐸𝑚 by different in-situ tests are different and an appropriate in-situ test based on the rock mass conditions should be employed to obtain reasonable results. Empirical criteria are found to produce results of reasonable precision if appropriately adopted for specific rock mass conditions, while the back analysis method is widely adopted as an insitu estimation measure for the design of rock-sockets and tunnel support. It has also been reported that substantial reduction in 𝐸𝑚 occurs due to schistosity and larger test volumes, while it is sensitive to stress and discontinuity conditions. In this work, specific recommendations are made on the estimation of 𝐸𝑚 for different types of rock masses based on the findings and reviews reported in the literature.