How to estimate the modulus of deformation of a block rock masses using discrete element simulations?

The deformation modulus of rock mass is a fundamental parameter in the geomechanics of tunnels, mining, and other geotechnical rock-supported facilities. The mechanical properties of a rock mass, seen as a fractured medium, are determined by the intact rock, the pattern of relative joint-sets, the geometrical arrangement of the joints, and their mechanical properties. Joint sets, acting as planar discontinuities, confer scale and direction-dependent mechanical properties. The critical factor influencing the deformational behavior of a rock mass is the stiffness of its fractures and discontinuities. The present study investigates the anisotropic deformation modulus of blocky rock masses formed by three intersecting joint sets, including two orthogonal sets. This was achieved through discrete element simulations of representative volumes of blocky rock masses. These studies facilitate the estimation of the blocky rock mass deformation modulus in different directions without the need for laboratory and in-situ tests or empirical relationships.

For more information, see the article:

📌 Ahrami O., Javaheri Koupaei H., Ahangari K. Determination of deformation modulus and characterization of anisotropic behavior of blocky rock masses. Mining Science and Technology (Russia). 2024;9(2):116-133. https://doi.org/10.17073/2500-0632-2023-08-143

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#inenglish #MST #anisotropy #deformation #modulus #mass #rocks #loading #fracture #stiffness #strength #shear #resistance #stress #displacement #sliding #quartz #modeling #coefficient #index #blocks #deformations #material #surface #structure #boundary #experiment #geomechanics #JRC #UCS #GSI #simulation

How to determine the deformation modulus and anisotropy in blocky rock masses?

🔹 In a study published in Mining Science and Technology (Russia), the authors investigated the anisotropic behavior of blocky rock masses. They employed the discrete element method to model and analyze the deformation modulus as a function of loading direction, joint properties, and intact rock characteristics.

🔹 Key Findings:
✔️ The deformation modulus depends on the Joint Roughness Coefficient (JRC) and the Uniaxial Compressive Strength (UCS) of the intact rock.
✔️ The influence of joint roughness on the deformation modulus is three times greater than that of intact rock strength.
✔️ The degree of anisotropy in the deformation modulus ranged from 1.6 ≤ Rₑ ≤ 2.5, with an average value of 1.88.
✔️ During joint sliding failure, the yield strain (0.2–0.4) is independent of the loading angle (θ) and the orientation of the third joint set (α).

🔹 Practical Applications:
The results enable the prediction of rock mass behavior without costly field tests, which is crucial for designing tunnels, boreholes, and other geotechnical structures.

Read the full study in Mining Science and Technology (Russia):

📌 Ahrami O., Javaheri Koupaei H., Ahangari K. Determination of deformation modulus and characterization of anisotropic behavior of blocky rock masses. Mining Science and Technology (Russia). 2024;9(2):116–133. https://doi.org/10.17073/2500-0632-2023-08-143

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#InEnglish #MST #anisotropy #deformation #modulus #mass #rocks #loading #fracture #stiffness #strength #shear #resistance #stress #displacement #sliding #quartz #modeling #coefficient #index #blocks #deformations #material #surface #structure #boundary #experiment #geomechanics #JRC #UCS #GSI #simulation

We present the articles of the second issue of scientific journal "Mining Science and Technology" (Russia) for 2025:

Scientists have studied the geological structure of the West Siberian Oil-and-Gas Province (OGP) to establish relationships between local strike-slip dislocations of the Russko-Chaselsky Ridge and the regional Pai-Khoi–Altai shear zone. The research aimed to identify patterns of hydrocarbon accumulation associated with fault systems in this zone. Using 2D/3D seismic surveys and digital models of gravity/magnetic fields, the team analyzed crustal deformation features within the shear zone, mapping sedimentary cover and basement structures. Results show that Pai-Khoi–Altai shear zone dislocations exhibit right-lateral strike-slip morphology, forming a hierarchical system with en echelon faults and Riedel shears. In the Russko-Chaselsky Ridge, these structures interact with graben-rift systems, creating submeridional deformation zones in the platform cover and upper basement. Seismic interpretation revealed "flower structures" extending from Lower Cretaceous to Paleozoic strata, which may serve as hydrocarbon migration pathways in the West Siberian OGP. These findings improve predictions of oil/gas accumulation in fault-controlled traps.

For details, see the article in Mining Science and Technology:

📌 Sekerina D.D., Saitgaleev M.M., Senchina N.P., et al. Role of strike-slips and graben-rifts in controlling oil and gas reservoirs in deep horizons of the Russko-Chaselsky Ridge (West Siberian Province). Mining Science and Technology (Russia). 2025;10(2):109-117. https://doi.org/10.17073/2500-0632-2025-02-399

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#inEnglish #MST #shear_structures #graben_rift #West_Siberia #hydrocarbon_exploration #seismic_survey #potential_fields #Riedel_shears #tectonics