GLEN 323 ROCK MECHANICS

TUTORIAL 1

Q.1. Various types of laboratory test are available to obtain intact (material) properties and
strength of rock for design of rock engineering structures like foundation, tunnel and slope.

Answer the following questions:

(a) Explain briefly why data obtained from index tests is not suitable for use in detailed design?

(b) Explain why data on rock strength obtained for laboratory test cannot be applied directly in
design of a structure in a rock mass?

(c) Disc-shaped rock samples were tested for their tensile strength using Brazilian test. Some of
these samples display existing fractures that are at different orientations with respect to loading
axis, as shown in Figure 1 (a) to (d).

i) Why is the Brazilian Test also termed an indirect tensile strength test?
ii) Which 2 samples will display similar tensile strength? State a reason for your answer
iii) For all the samples shown in Figure 1 which sample will show the lowest tensile
strength? State a reason for your answer

Figure 1 Existing Fractures in Samples of Brazilian Test

Q.2
Figure 2 shows 2 samples used in UCS. Sample A exhibits 2 pre-existing cracks which are
inclined and intersecting, and Sample B with 2 pre-existing cracks that are perpendicular to
loading. Based on the plotted curves (Figure 3), state which test (Test 1 or Test 2) was conducted
on Sample B? Give a brief explanation for your answer
Figure 2 Rock samples with existing crack under compression

Figure 3 Stress-Strain Curves for UCS Test