Triaxial stress behavior of Solenhofen limestone and westerly granite at high strain rates

Abstract

Constant strain rate tests were conducted on solid cylinders and thin-walled hollow cylinders of Solenhofen limestone and Westerly granite. Loads and axial and transverse strains were measured to provide the stress-strain response and to define the brittle failure or ductile yield locus. Tests were conducted at confining pressures to 3 kb and strain rates to 103/sec. The strength of the rocks is strain rate sensitive; i.e., somewhat increased strength with strain rate is shown. Stiffness and compressibility are stress state dependent and for Westerly granite, also strain rate dependent at low confining pressures.