NON-METALLIC REINFORCING ROD AND METHOD OF USE IN SUPPORTING A ROCK FORMATION

摘要

An elongated rod fabricated of polymeric material for use in reinforcing an underground passage includes an integral structure of a shaft portion, washer element and torque receiving end portion. The shaft portion is fabricated of a preselected polymeric material as required to meet the strength requirements of the rod in reinforcing the rock formation surrounding the passage. For use in reinforcing the side walls of a passage, the rod is fabricated of plastic material recycled, for example, from plastic beverage containers. The integral construction eliminates the need to thread the end of the rod to receive a nut. The washer element seats against a bearing block compressed against the side wall. When used with a resin system, the rod is anchored in the bore hole to maintain the bearing block compressed against the side wall to support the surrounding rock strata.