Theoretical investigation of deformation characteristics of stratified rocks considering geometric and mechanical variability

Abstract

Anisotropy is one of the most distinct features of stratified rock mass and it must be considered in engineering design and stability analysis. On the basis of linear elastic theory and displacements equivalence, a computational model considering elastic anisotropy was established. The equivalent elastic modulus and equivalent Poisson’s ratio of the stratified rock perpendicular and parallel to the loading direction were discussed. The relations of material properties and geometry parameters with the equivalent elastic modulus and equivalent Poisson’s ratio in two directions were studied. Uniaxial compressive test was conducted and the elastic modulus and Poisson’s ratio in the proposed model agreed well with experimental results. The comparison between a comprehensive set of experimental data and theoretical analysis data proves that the proposed constitutive model can effectively characteristic the mechanical behavior of stratified rocks. The proposed model can consider the effects of material parameters and geometry parameters of rock and joints on the mechanical behavior of stratified rock mass. Moreover, the elastic anisotropy was considered in the model. Thus, the model can supply some valuable reference in studying deformation of stratified rock mass and engineering design.