Stability investigations in three-dimensions around a tunnel in a metal mine in China

P. H.S.W. Kulatilake, X. Wang, W. Song

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

To exploit an underground mine effectively and safely, it is important to have a good understanding of the geotechnical behavior around underground excavations made in the mine. The aim of this study was to investigate the geotechnical behavior around a tunnel excavated in a metal mine in China at the three-dimensional level. Using the information available on lithology, geological structures, insitu stress measurements, physical and mechanical properties of intact rock, discontinuities and interfaces between different rocks, a three-dimensional numerical model was built by using the 3DEC software to simulate a tunnel excavation under a high in-situ stress condition. Effect of the discontinuity network, possible intact rock and discontinuity parameter variability, representation of rock masses as discontinuum or continuum material and rock support system on the deformation, stress, failure zone and stability around the tunnel was investigated. A very good agreement was obtained between the collected field deformation monitoring results and the results of the conducted numerical stress analyses.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publication2012 SME Annual Meeting and Exhibit 2012, SME 2012, Meeting Preprints
Pages640-652
Number of pages13
StatePublished - 2012
Event2012 SME Annual Meeting and Exhibit 2012, SME 2012 - Seattle, WA, United States
Duration: Feb 19 2012Feb 22 2012

Publication series

Name2012 SME Annual Meeting and Exhibit 2012, SME 2012, Meeting Preprints

Other

Other2012 SME Annual Meeting and Exhibit 2012, SME 2012
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySeattle, WA
Period2/19/122/22/12

Keywords

  • 3-D stress analysis, field monitoring
  • Discontinuities
  • Geotechnical behavior
  • Mining
  • Tunnel

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Geochemistry and Petrology
  • Geology
  • Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology

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