Precise grading of surrounding rock based on the numerical calculation of the jointed rock mass

Abstract

In this study, grading of surrounding rock was based on rock mass basic quality (BQ) values according to the specifications in China. Numerical approach was to construct synthetic rock mass (SRM) model to represent the jointed rock mass, and obtain the strength of the rock mass. It represented intact rock by the bonded particle model (BPM), and represent joint behaviour by the smooth joint model (SJM) to construct the discrete fracture network (DFN). In the Hongtuzhang Tunnel, the micro properties of granite cores with different weathered degrees were determined by the validation process, and the calculation representative elementary volume (REV) of surrounding rock was 15 m×15 m. Five slightly weathered, three slightly to moderately weathered, and two moderately weathered granite surrounding rock mass models were established based on the probability distribution of joint sets in each borehole, the conversion BQ value was acquired according by the calculated strength of rock mass model. It was discussed the differences of surrounding rock grades between the geological survey method and the numerical calculation method, and then found that the geological survey report is higher than the numerical calculation method predicted. And the numerical calculation is consistent with the actual excavation of rock mass at borehole A1388.