623
Views
19
CrossRef citations to date
0
Altmetric
Original Articles

Estimation of the rock mass deformation modulus using a rock classification system

, , &
Pages 46-52 | Received 15 May 2012, Accepted 15 May 2012, Published online: 30 Jul 2012
 

Abstract

It is often difficult to directly obtain specific design parameters of interest. In these situations, estimation based on empirical correlations is an alternative. The deformation modulus of a rock mass, which is important to know for engineering projects, is measured by in situ tests, such as plate bearing, flat jack, pressure chamber, borehole jacking and dilatometer tests. Nevertheless, these in situ tests are expensive, time consuming and sometimes even impossible. Many attempts have been made to estimate the E modulus using easy-to-obtain parameters of a rock mass. This paper reviews previous studies and the equations that have been developed. In addition, this study presents a new relation developed using a database of 82 dilatometer test results gathered from two dam sites and a tunnel site. Statistical analyses were performed to correlate accessible rock parameters with measured E modulus values from in situ tests. Knowing that discontinuity characteristics and the strength of rock materials are the most important contributors to rock deformability, the focus was on identifying parameters that are affected by the mentioned properties. Among the tested parameters, RMR (Rock Mass Rating) showed the best correlation with the E modulus. Statistical analyses resulted in a new empirical equation that has an acceptable estimation ability.

Acknowledgements

The authors express their thanks to the Iran Water and Power Resources Development Committee staff, especially Dr. Sheibani, Mahab Ghods Cu. Engineering staff, Sahel Cu. Engineering Staff and Eshtoki Pars Cu. Engineering Staff, for providing data support and to Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, where the study was carried out.

Log in via your institution

Log in to Taylor & Francis Online

PDF download + Online access

  • 48 hours access to article PDF & online version
  • Article PDF can be downloaded
  • Article PDF can be printed
USD 61.00 Add to cart

Issue Purchase

  • 30 days online access to complete issue
  • Article PDFs can be downloaded
  • Article PDFs can be printed
USD 203.00 Add to cart

* Local tax will be added as applicable

Related Research

People also read lists articles that other readers of this article have read.

Recommended articles lists articles that we recommend and is powered by our AI driven recommendation engine.

Cited by lists all citing articles based on Crossref citations.
Articles with the Crossref icon will open in a new tab.