Analysis of Underground Openings in Rock by Finite Element Methods

摘要

Finite element modeling techniques for underground openings in rock were discussed and a generalized method for excavation simulation was presented and its applicability was demonstrated. Analyses were conducted to establish the physical modeling criteria and minimum criteria were established for these models. Simple, practical, nonlinear and stress-dependent relationships were presented for the rock modulus and Poisson's ratio and for the discontinuity stiffness. An extensive literature survey was conducted to evaluate the parameters required for these relationships. Generalized analyses were conducted to evaluate the effect of opening shape, excavation sequence, initial stress, magnitude, variation and orientation, rock and discontinuity properties, and discontinuity orientation on the resulting behavior of underground openings in rock. (Modified author abstract)