Three-dimensional Digital Image Research Articles

Deformation ability of modular gymnasium steel inner sleeve all-bolt cross connection joint based on 3D-DIC method

Immense roof loads present a significant hurdle for the functionality of continuously supported modular connection joints in movable modular gymnasium structures. Consequently, we introduced leveraging inner sleeves and bolts to interconnect the modular units of the upper and lower columns, aiming to bolster the strength of inter-unit connections. Despite its noteworthy benefits, the deformation behavior and force distribution characteristics of this novel design remain underexplored. Hence, our study employs three-dimensional digital image correlation (3D-DIC) measurement to precisely capture the full-field displacement and strain distributions within the core area of this joint. Four distinct joint specimens were designed, and conducted comprehensive static tests, encompassing variables such as the inclusion or exclusion of inner sleeves, reinforcing ribs, and diverse loading directions. 3D-DIC detected subtle deformations and local buckling phenomena, undetectable by the naked eye, and revealed their occurrence patterns. Furthermore, the detections underscore the critical role of weld quality between beams and columns in ensuring the overall safety of the joints. The joint exhibited earlier yielding in beam bending compared to column bending. To delve deeper into this joint, we generated moment-rotation curves leveraging DIC results, deducing that this joint exhibits rigid-joint characteristics. The specimens primarily showed damage modes such as beam-root fractures or member buckling, while the core area remained intact. This observation reinforces the classification of the joint as a full-strength entity. These insights enrich our comprehension of this novel joint and serve as invaluable references and aids for designers.

Curing deformation compensation in bonding assembly for high-precision linear displacement encoder sensors

Abstract Linear displacement encoder sensors extensively appear in high-precision instruments, in which the core scale is usually bonded with the scale base by adhesives. However, the curing shrinkage of the adhesives often causes a warping deformation of the moving ruler, which in turn leads to a decrease in measurement accuracy. To improve the accuracy of the bonding assembly, this paper proposes a novel deformation compensation method. A force control fixture is first designed, and a tensile force is applied to tense the scale base. The scale is then bonded to the scale base, and the tensile force is maintained until the adhesive is cured. The optimal tensile force is determined to minimize the warping deformation by combining a finite-element simulation and an artificial fish swarm algorithm. The optimal result is verified experimentally, where the warping deformation is measured using a homemade three-dimensional digital image correlation system. The experimental results demonstrate that the warping deformation of the moving ruler is reduced by 89.2% using the proposed method.

Hybrid simulation testing of two-storey low-aspect-ratio nuclear RC shear walls with normal- and high-strength reinforcement: Seismic performance evaluation and economic assessment

Low-aspect-ratio reinforced concrete (RC) shear walls have been commonly used in several nuclear facilities in containment and safety-related structures. Despite being a potential alternative to reduce rebar congestion and subsequently minimize complex construction activities typically associated with nuclear facilities, there has been limited experimental research on investigating the impact of using high-strength reinforcement (HSR) on the seismic performance of such walls, particularly in a multi-storey context. This lack of research is mainly due to considerable challenges imposed when testing such multi-storey nuclear RC shear walls in most laboratories. Therefore, the current study presents the experimental results of two two-storey low-aspect-ratio nuclear RC shear walls that were tested utilizing the seismic hybrid simulation testing technique. In this respect, walls W1-NSR and W2-HSR were designed using normal-strength reinforcement (NSR) and HSR, respectively, where the two test walls had comparable capacities to allow for direct comparisons. Both walls were subjected to various ground motion levels, spanning from operational to design and beyond-design earthquake scenarios. The experimental findings are then presented to include the force-displacement responses, the multi-storey effects, ductility capacities, lateral and rotational stiffnesses, rebar strains, and cracking patterns of the test walls. Subsequently, an economic assessment was carried out to quantify the total rebar weights and the corresponding construction costs of such walls. In addition, the expected seismic repair costs were determined based on a three-dimensional digital image correlation technique that provided information on the damage states of the test walls under different earthquake levels. The results show that although W1-NSR and W2-HSR attained similar force and moment capacities, W2-HSR achieved a relatively higher ductility capacity than W1-NSR. However, larger cracks were observed in W2-HSR compared to W1-NSR, which was attributed to the associated larger rebar spacing in the former relative to the latter. The economic assessment results demonstrate that using HSR minimized the rebar weights and construction costs, while both walls had similar seismic repair costs at their design and beyond-design earthquake levels. Both the seismic performance and economic assessment results presented in the current study are expected to aid future editions of relevant design standards in adopting HSR in nuclear construction practice.

BPNN-based prediction for the shapes of a petal hole induced by hydrodynamic ram

The attitude angles of a projectile moving through a liquid are important factors that influence the dynamic failure of liquid-filled structures induced by hydrodynamic ram (HRAM). In this study, the effect of the attitude angles of a cylindrical projectile on the shapes of the petal hole in the rear plate of a kerosene-filled tank was investigated through ballistic impact experiments using three-dimensional digital image correlation, finite element simulations, and a back propagation neural network (BPNN). The inclination angle λ characterizing the shapes of the petal hole was related to the projection shapes of the projectile when impacting on the rear plate. The formation of petal-hole shapes was also accompanied by the formation of plastic hinge lines in the rear plate. Additionally, a method combining a BPNN and physical equations that accurately predict the drag coefficient and motion of a projectile moving through a liquid was proposed. A function describing the shapes of the petal hole was provided in the 2D space of the two initial attitude angles. The results provide offer insights into trajectory stability during liquid entry and aid in predicting the dynamic failure mode of a liquid-filled tank induced by HRAM.

Correction of thermal airflow distortion in warpage measurements of microelectronic packaging structures via deep learning-based digital image correlation

The projected speckle-based three-dimensional digital image correlation method (3D-DIC) is being increasingly used in the reliability measurement of microelectronic packaging structures because of its noninvasive nature, high precision, and low cost. However, during the measurement of the thermal reliability of packaging structures, the thermal airflow generated by heating introduces distortions in the images captured by the DIC measurement system, impacting the accuracy and reliability of noncontact measurements. To address this challenge, a thermal airflow distortion correction model based on the transformer attention mechanism is proposed specifically for the measurement of thermal warpage in microelectronic packaging structures. This model avoids the oversmoothing issue associated with convolutional neural networks and the lack of physical constraints in generative adversarial networks, ensuring the precision of grayscale gradient changes in speckle patterns and minimizing adverse effects on DIC calculation accuracy. By inputting the distorted images captured by the DIC measurement system into the network, corrected images are obtained for 3D-DIC calculations, thus allowing the thermal warpage measurement results of the sample to be acquired. Through experiments measuring topography with customized step block specimens, the effectiveness of the proposed method in improving warpage measurement accuracy is confirmed; this is particularly true when captured images are affected by thermal airflow at 140 °C and 160 °C, temperatures commonly encountered in thermal reliability testing of packaging structures. The method successfully reduces the standard deviation from 9.829 to 5.943 µm and from 12.318 to 6.418 µm, respectively. The results demonstrate the substantial practical value of this method for measuring thermal warpage in microelectronic packaging structures.

Reduced warpage in semiconductor packages: Optimizing post-cure temperature profile considering cure shrinkage and viscoelasticity of epoxy molding compound

Warpage in semiconductor packages is a critical issue that affects their reliability and performance. This study aims to minimize the warpage of a bi-material dummy package by optimizing the post-mold curing (PMC) temperature profile. A warpage simulation model was developed considering the viscoelastic properties and cure shrinkage behavior of the epoxy molding compound (EMC). A compression molding monitoring system was also developed to analyze the cure behavior of the EMC. The gelation point of the EMC during compression molding was determined using a dielectric sensor, while cure shrinkage behaviors were analyzed using a fiber Bragg grating sensor. Viscoelastic properties were characterized through stress relaxation tests, and thermal properties were measured using three-dimensional digital image correlation. The developed simulation model was used to optimize the PMC temperature profile using a genetic algorithm. Experimental validation showed that the optimized temperature profile reduced the warpage from ∼1519 μm to 486 μm compared to a linear profile. The findings of this study have broader implications for the design and manufacturing of semiconductor packages, as the proposed approach can be applied to minimize warpage and improve package reliability.

Effect of Plate Length on Construct Stiffness and Strain in a Synthetic Short-Fragment Fracture Gap Model Stabilized with a 3.5-mm Locking Compression Plate.

To evaluate the effect of 3.5-mm locking compression plate (LCP) length on construct stiffness and plate and bone model strain in a synthetic, short-fragment, fracture-gap model. Six replicates of 6-hole, 8-hole, 10-hole, and 12-hole LCP constructs on a short-fragment, tubular Delrin fracture gap model underwent four-point compression and tension bending. Construct stiffness and surface strain, calculated using three-dimensional digital image correlation, were compared across plate length and region of interest (ROI) on the construct. The 12-hole plates (80% plate-bone ratio) had significantly higher construct stiffness than 6-hole, 8-hole, and 10-hole plates and significantly lower plate strain than 6-hole plates at all ROIs. Strain on the bone model was significantly lower in constructs with 10-hole and 12-hole plates than 6-hole plates under both compression and tension bending. Incremental increases in construct stiffness and incremental decreases in plate strain were only identified when comparing 6-hole, 8-hole, and 10-hole plates to 12-hole plates, and 6-hole to 12-hole plates, respectively. Strain on the bone model showed an incremental decrease when comparing 6-hole to 10-hole and 12-hole plates. A long plate offered biomechanical advantages of increased construct stiffness and reduced plate and bone model strain, over a short plate in this in vitro model.

Experimental study of rock fracture behavior under direct tension using three-dimensional digital image correlation

Understanding the mechanical characteristics of rocks when subjected to direct tension is crucial for assessing the stability of rock formations. Within the scope of this research, a series of tests was conducted using Tage tuff to assess the deformation behavior and crack extension of rock under direct tension. The axial, lateral, and shear strain fields as well as crack propagation, localized deformation behavior, and failure mode of the rocks were analyzed using three-dimensional digital image correlation method. The results showed that the axial strain fields on the specimen surface were heterogeneous, with different locations and localization occurring in the pre-peak stage, which was similar to the evolution of shear strain, whereas the lateral strain only showed slight changes. The crack extension direction was inferred, indicating that both tensile and shear stress occurred in the tests. Furthermore, different stress–strain responses were observed for the inside and outside of the localized bands. Then, the surface patterns of specimen failure were scanned and analyzed to assess the failure mode and residual strength of the specimen under direct tensile stress. Finally, the results of direct tension, uniaxial compression, and Brazilian split tests for Tage tuff were compared, and the complete stress–strain curve of uniaxial tension (UT) was simulated using a nonlinear-variable-compliance constitutive equation. This study provides a deeper understanding into the damage behavior of rocks under direct tension.

Study on the dry shrinkage characteristics and size effect of swell-shrink characteristic soil.

Swell-shrink characteristic soils exhibit a high susceptibility to cracking during the drying process, which poses a significant risk of various geological disasters. Among these, the occurrence of drying shrinkage acts as a prerequisite for the cracking phenomenon. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to comprehend the specific characteristics associated with the drying shrinkage mechanism. To investigate the drying shrinkage behavior of swell-shrink characteristic soils, a series of drying shrinkage experiments were conducted on long strip samples of red clay and expansive soil. Utilizing three-dimensional digital image correlation (DIC) technology, the surface displacement, strain, and anisotropic shrinkage rates of the soil samples during the drying process were obtained, and the size effect on the drying shrinkage of swell-shrink characteristic soil were analyzed. The research findings are as follows: The displacement development of the soil samples in the X and Y directions can be divided into two stages: a linear growth stage and a stable displacement stage. In the Z direction, the soil surface deformation can be divided into three stages: soil surface arching, vertical shrinkage, and shrinkage stabilization. The drying shrinkage of swell-shrink characteristic soil exhibits anisotropy, with the vertical shrinkage rate being the largest, followed by the longitudinal and then the transverse directions. Additionally, the soil sample shrinkage exhibits a size effect, whereby the shrinkage rates in all directions increase with increasing sample width and thickness. During the drying shrinkage process, the stress state on the soil surface evolves from initial tensile strain to subsequent compressive strain. The strain at different positions and times within the soil sample is not uniform, resulting in the non-uniformity and anisotropy of the sample shrinkage. This study provides important insights into the cracking mechanism of swell-shrink characteristic soils and serves as a valuable reference for related laboratory experiments, which will contribute to better prediction and control the geological hazards caused by the drying shrinkage of swell-shrink characteristic soils.

A high explosive blast simulator

Window facades are heavily used in modern design. To ensure that the facade can withstand sufficiently large blast loads, experimental evaluation of the entire facade is crucial. In this study, we present the High Explosive Blast Simulator (HEBSim), an outdoors modular explosive-driven blast simulator with a large cross-section designed for real-size blast testing of glass facades. To evaluate the performance of HEBSim, we performed two test series, one with a rigid steel plate component and one with deformable laminated glass window components. Pressure sensors were used to measure the overpressure histories for both test series and deformation data was gathered using three-dimensional digital image correlation (3D-DIC) for the window component tests. The test series demonstrated that HEBSim generates planar and repeatable blast load profiles in line with explosive pressure resistance (EPR) classifications for various charge masses. In addition, the window component test series illustrated the stochastic fracture behavior of glass. Based on the presented data, HEBSim is found suitable for blast testing of large glass facades.

Characterizing PEM fuel cell catalyst layer properties from high resolution three-dimensional digital images, part I: A numerical procedure for the ionomer distribution reconstruction

In this work, a numerical approach is presented to reconstruct the ionomer three-dimensional distribution in the microstructure of the cathode catalyst layer (CCL) of a polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) from a 3D segmented image of the CCL obtained by focused ion beam-scanning electron microscopy (FIB-SEM). Three forms of ionomer are distinguished: the ionomer filaments, the coating ionomer and the inter-carbon grains ionomer. The ionomer filaments are identified by applying a filtering procedure to the size distribution in the segmented solid phase obtained via a maximum sphere inscription algorithm. The coating ionomer is reconstructed via a filtering procedure of the curvature distribution computed over the interface between the two segmented phases from the consideration that concave regions are preferential ionomer accumulation zones during the drying step of the CCL fabrication procedure. This procedure of coating controlled by the local curvature is applied until a desired value of coverage is reached. In a last step, catalyst nanoparticles, also not visible in the FIB-SEM image, are reconstructed in the image.

Characterizing PEM fuel cell catalyst layer properties from high resolution three-dimensional digital images, Part II: Oxygen effective diffusion and proton effective conductivity tensors

The oxygen effective diffusion and proton effective conductivity tensors of a cathode catalyst layer (CCL) are computed using a two-scale approach on CCL microstructure three-dimensional images obtained by focused ion beam-scanning electron microscopy (FIB-SEM) after reconstruction of the ionomer distribution. The results show that the obtained tensors are not isotropic. It is also found that some off-diagonal components are not negligible in the case of the proton effective conductivity tensor. The simulations confirm that Knudsen diffusion has a significant impact on oxygen diffusion. The results are comparable to those obtained in previous works on synthetic images as regards the oxygen effective diffusion through-plane component but differ as regards the proton conductivity through-plane component. Contrary to previous works using synthetic images which tend to underestimate the proton conductivity, they are globally in better agreement with experimental data. The results also show that the effective proton conductivity is heterogeneous at the scale of the computational domains typically considered in several previous works due to the variability in the ionomer distribution at this scale. The impact of liquid water in the primary pores on the proton transport is explored and found to have a significant impact.

3D imaging and flow analysis of sandstone pore structure

Abstract Micro CT technology can provide three-dimensional high-precision digital images with micrometer (or smaller) resolution, offering robust technical support for the study of the internal structure of rocks. Based on the data obtained from the CT scanning of Leopard sandstone, a series of image processes were carried out using the Avizo software to extract pore distribution. The watershed algorithm was employed to independently segment each pore, and the largest sphere algorithm was used to establish a sphere-tube model. Based on the constructed pore network model, quantitative analyses of the porosity, fractal dimensions, permeability, and other parameters of the sandstone sample were conducted. Moreover, the connectivity of the pores was analyzed using an automatic skeleton model. Results show: ① CT scanning digital core technology can not only visualize the three-dimensional connectivity and isolated pores of sandstone but also quantitatively characterize the pore structure parameters; ② The analyzed Leopard sandstone has a connected porosity of 13.76%, an isolated porosity of 0.53%, and the pore radius is mainly concentrated in the 0-70μm small pore range, occupying 76.1% of the total pore volume; ③ The lower the sample porosity, the higher the fractal dimension, indicating a more complex pore structure.

Experimental studies on behavior of one-part geopolymer composite slabs subjected to blast loading

Over the past two decades, geopolymer has emerged as a noteworthy alternative to traditional cementitious materials in construction, offering comparable performance with reduced carbon dioxide emissions. The recent development of one-part geopolymer composites, which transform the alkaline activating solution into a solid powder form, has significantly enhanced the scalability and applicability of geopolymer in construction contexts. This study investigates the mechanical behavior of one-part geopolymer composite slabs when subjected to blast loading. Four slab specimens were constructed using the one-part geopolymer composite. Two of these specimens were reinforced with steel wire mesh, while the other two used PVA fibers for reinforcement. These slabs were tested under various blast loading induced by a shock tube. Employing three-dimensional digital image correlation techniques, the dynamic responses and damage mechanisms exhibited by these slabs were analyzed and discussed. The experimental results reveal that the fiber-reinforced geopolymer composite (FRGC) slabs demonstrate superior blast resistance compared to those reinforced with steel wire mesh. In particular, the one-part geopolymer matrix combined with PVA fibers exhibited a synergistic effect, indicating an enhanced capacity for energy dissipation. The findings suggest that one-part geopolymer concrete reinforced with PVA fibers holds significant potential for applications in the field of protective engineering, marking a step forward in the development of sustainable and resilient construction materials.

On the role of curvature in the response of air-backed composites to hydrodynamic loading: An experimental study

Composite materials are increasingly utilized in high-performance naval structures, due to their superior properties over traditional materials like steel and aluminum. However, their widespread use is hindered by our limited understanding of their behavior when exposed to marine environments. One of the main loading conditions encountered during operations at sea is the hydrodynamic loading on the side in contact with water. Despite the practical significance of curved composite structures, the state-of-the-art on air-backed composites relies on the study of flat plates. Here, we use three-dimensional digital image correlation and planar particle image velocimetry to study the influence of curvature on the dynamic response of composite plates to hydrodynamic loading. Our findings reveal that curvature significantly influences both structural deformations and flow physics. The curved plate experiences localized vibrations with lower amplitude and higher frequency, caused by its increased stiffness. Additionally, the hydrodynamic pressure at the center of the plate decays faster in time for the curved configuration, highlighting the importance of curvature in shaping fluid–structure interactions. Our results advance the understanding of fluid–structure interactions in composite materials and highlight the importance of curvature in the design of resilient marine structures.

Deformation ability of steel inner sleeve T-joint in modular gymnasia based on 3D-DIC method

Substantial loads the roofs bear exert stringent performance standards on connecting joints in movable modular gymnasiums. Previously, we introduced a novel joint design, utilizing internal sleeves and bolts to integrate the upper and lower columns of modular units. To explore the actual deformation behavior and force distribution of this joint, this study employed a three-dimensional digital image correlation (3D-DIC) measurement method to visualize its full-field displacement and strain distribution. The reliability of the 3D-DIC results was confirmed through comparison with traditional measurement methods. Building upon this solid foundation, this study proceeds to assess the static performance of this innovative joint in two distinct directions, successfully revealing micro-deformation and local buckling phenomena undetectable to the naked eye. Notably, the quality of the welds connecting the beams and columns plays a pivotal role in ensuring the overall structural integrity of the joint. Under lateral loading conditions, the destructive behavior of the joints is primarily governed by material strength. Moment-rotation curves were plotted to delve further into the mechanical characteristics of the joint, revealing that the inner-sleeve T-joint exhibits the attributes of a rigid joint. Moreover, the primary damage modes observed in the specimens were fractures at the beam root or buckling of the column, with the joint area remaining intact. Consequently, this joint qualifies as a full-strength connection. These findings will deepen knowledge and understanding of this novel joint for designers.

Failure Analysis and Piezo-resistance Response of Intralaminar Glass/Carbon Hybrid Composites Under Blast Loading Conditions

Abstract In this study, damage mechanisms and the piezo-resistance response of glass/carbon intralaminar hybrid composites are examined under blast loading conditions. Two-ply orientations are considered, namely a repeating ((G45C45)R) and an alternating ((G45C45)A) +/− 45° glass/carbon layers, along with three boundary condition configurations: simply supported, partially fixed, and fully fixed are applied. A shock tube apparatus and the three-dimensional digital image correlation technique are utilized to investigate the interaction of shock waves with the composites and gather a comprehensive deformation field during the loading. A modified four-probe resistivity measurement method is implemented to comprehend the piezo-resistance response associated with damage evolution. The results underscore the substantial influence of boundary conditions on the blast mitigation capacity of the composites. Analysis following the experiments reveals that the damage to the specimens primarily involves the fracture of fibers accompanied by internal delamination. Thermal imaging of the tested composite specimens provides enhanced insight into the precise occurrences of internal fiber breakage and delamination. Composites of (G45C45)A type demonstrate an increased energy dissipation ranging from 18% to 33% compared to (G45C45)R composites, depending on the specific boundary conditions among the three types considered. Furthermore, the findings indicated a strong correlation between changes in piezo-resistance and the fracture of carbon fibers, coupled with the sustained deformation of the composites. Notably, (G45C45)A composites exhibited 100% ∼ 300% higher change in piezo-resistance compared to (G45C45)R composites, indicative of the superior damage-sensing capabilities of the former.

Three-Dimensional-Digital Image Correlation Methodology for Kinematic Measurements of Non-Penetrating Blunt Impacts.

Blunt force trauma remains a serious threat to many populations and is commonly seen in motor vehicle crashes, sports, and military environments. Effective design of helmets and protective armor should consider biomechanical tolerances of organs in which they intend to protect and require accurate measurements of deformation as a primary injury metric during impact. To overcome challenges found in velocity and displacement measurements during blunt impact using an integrated accelerometer and two-dimensional (2D) high-speed video, three-dimensional (3D) digital image correlation (DIC) measurements were taken and compared to the accepted techniques. A semispherical impactor was launched at impact velocities from 14 to 20 m/s into synthetic ballistic gelatin to simulate blunt impacts observed in behind armor blunt trauma (BABT), falls, and sports impacts. Repeated measures Analysis of Variance resulted in no significant differences in maximum displacement (p = 0.10), time of maximum displacement (p = 0.21), impact velocity (p = 0.13), and rebound velocity (p = 0.21) between methods. The 3D-DIC measurements demonstrated equal or improved percent difference and low root-mean-square deviation compared to the accepted measurement techniques. Therefore, 3D-DIC may be utilized in BABT and other blunt impact applications for accurate 3D kinematic measurements, especially when an accelerometer or 2D lateral camera analysis is impractical or susceptible to error.

Ballistic impact wave and back bulge propagation mechanism and blunt trauma assessment of ceramic/UHMWPE composite body armor

With increasing local conflicts worldwide, studying the impact response of body armor is crucial for enhancing soldier survival rates. However, there is still insufficient understanding of the back bulge expansion patterns, the impact waves transmission features, and blunt injury assessing method of body armor. To investigate these problems deeply, the three-dimensional digital image correlation method and numerical models were employed to reveal the ballistic response mechanism of ceramic/ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) composite body armor impacted by 7.62 mm rifle bullet. This study built theoretical function for the bulge expansion, revealed the wave transmission mechanism and fractures in both materials and their interaction. Firstly, the experiment revealed that the back-face bulge transverse expansion velocity exhibits a double exponential decrease. Secondly, the contour of back-face bulges consistently demonstrated excellent hyperbolic characteristics at various moments. Thirdly, the average Viscous Criterion (VC) and Blunt Criterion (BC) values were 5.37 and 0.95, corresponding to Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) values of 6 and 4. Fourthly, the simulation revealed that the ceramics transverse and radial cracks seems primarily induced by shear stress xy; ceramics conical cracks occurring at the boundaries of equivalent stress seems primarily induced by stress in x and y directions. Fifthly, numerical results revealed that the velocity of compression waves within the laminate increases over time in the impact direction and consistent with ceramic velocity impacted on the laminate. These findings lead to experimental and theoretical advances in the impact response mechanism of composite body armor and provide index for improving the protective performance.

Large-scale laboratory investigation of pillar-support interaction

Underground mine pillars provide natural stability to the mine area, allowing safe operations for workers and machinery. Extensive prior research has been conducted to understand pillar failure mechanics and design safe pillar layouts. However, limited studies (mostly based on empirical field observation and small-scale laboratory tests) have considered pillar-support interactions under monotonic loading conditions for the design of pillar-support systems. This study used a series of large-scale laboratory compression tests on porous limestone blocks to analyze rock and support behavior at a sufficiently large scale (specimens with edge length of 0.5 m) for incorporation of actual support elements, with consideration of different w/h ratios. Both unsupported and supported (grouted rebar rockbolt and wire mesh) tests were conducted, and the surface deformations of the specimens were monitored using three-dimensional (3D) digital image correlation (DIC). Rockbolts instrumented with distributed fiber optic strain sensors were used to study rockbolt strain distribution, load mobilization, and localized deformation at different w/h ratios. Both axial and bending strains were observed in the rockbolts, which became more prominent in the post-peak region of the stress-strain curve.