Discussion 4

Rock Mechanics (CE630A)

Question 1:

This is the triaxial test data for intact Indiana limestone rock

σ3 (MPa) σ1 (MPa)
7.03 67.96
14.06 85.53
21.09 100.76
28.12 108.97
35.15 123.03
42.18 128.88

a) Suppose this rock is supposed to behave according to Hoek-Brown Strength

Criterion. Then estimate Hoek-Brown Strength Parameters for this rock (m i, si,
σci).
b) After estimating these parameters, plot a curve for Hoek-Brown Strength
Criterion (σ3- σ1) for σ3 range of -25 MPa to 200 MPa.
σ3 (MPa) σ1 (MPa) (σ1-σ3)2
7.03 67.96 3712.465
14.06 85.53 5107.961
21.09 100.76 6347.309
28.12 108.97 6536.723
35.15 123.03 7722.894
42.18 128.88 7516.89
Now, for these estimated H-B parameters H-B failure envelope can be plotted for the
equation (1), as
Question 2:

To avoid the complexity associated with the non-linearity of Hoek-Brown

criterion, it was decided to use Mohr-Coulomb strength criterion for the same
rock. Then
a) Estimate Mohr-Coulomb Strength Parameters for this rock (c i, Фi).
b) After estimating these parameters, plot a curve for Mohr-Coulomb Strength
Criterion (σ3- σ1) for σ3 range of -25 MPa to 200 MPa.
Plot the data as shown below and fit a straight line over this data

The intercept and slope of the fitted line will give you two equations from which you
can get strength parameters
Solving these two equations will give you:

Now, for these estimated parameters, failure envelope can be plotted easily

Approach 2 could be to draw Mohr’s circle for each state of stress shown and draw a
tangent. Slope will give you friction angle and intercept will give you cohesion
(Similar to soil mechanics)
Question 3:

Find 3D Hoek-Brown strength criterion for true

triaxial test data for a sandstone.