The influence of macropores on strength and mode of failure of square specimens 2D numerical simulation and experimental validation

Colleen Jespersen, Randy Spence, Mary MacLaughlin, Jesse Parkhurst, Nick Hudyma

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

2 Scopus citations

Abstract

This study attempts to quantify the effects of macropore spacing on failure mode and engineering properties of rock material. Changes in the unconfined compressive strength, elastic modulus and mode of failure of 4" square specimens with circular holes are investigated using 2D numerical simulations (FLAC and Phase2) and from approximately forty unconfined compression tests on 4" cubic specimens of synthetic material (HydrocalTM, a high-quality plaster). Cubic specimens have cylindrical "tunnels" extending through the cubes. Results show that as the center-to-center spacing is increased between holes, the unconfined compressive strength increases and failure mode changes from tensile to shear. During failure of specimens with holes in the minimum center-to center spacing configuration, the individual holes act as a single void. Results at the minimum center-to-center hole spacing show a low unconfined compressive strength and tensile failure. The maximum spacing between inclusions results in relatively high peak strengths and shear failure.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication41st Symposium on Engineering Geology and Geotechnical Engineering 2008
Pages37-48
Number of pages12
StatePublished - 2008
Event41st Symposium on Engineering Geology and Geotechnical Engineering 2008 - Boise, ID, United States
Duration: 9 Apr 200811 Apr 2008

Publication series

Name41st Symposium on Engineering Geology and Geotechnical Engineering 2008

Conference

Conference41st Symposium on Engineering Geology and Geotechnical Engineering 2008
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityBoise, ID
Period9/04/0811/04/08

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