Modeling gap effects in jointed rock

Author

Tyler Baker

Publication Date

7-2-2012

Abstract

Joints represent planes of discontinuity in homogeneous media. The purpose of this investigation is to model joints and determine the e\ufb00ects on waves as they propagate through joints in rock. Properties of interest include energy dissipation, energy transmission, and changes in peak stress and impulse as waves propagate through one or more joints. Rather than combining rock joints into the constitutive model of the parent rock as typically done, this research seeks to model joints discretely. By capturing the behavior of individual rock joints, discrete e\ufb00ects on wave propagation are gathered. The ability to lump multiple joints into one equivalent joint is also explored. The key result is that joints a\ufb00ect short duration pulses more than long duration pulses. A single equivalent joint transmits less energy than a set of multiple joints.

Keywords

Joints (Geology)--Mathematical models, Elastic wave propagation--Mathematical models.

Degree Name

Mechanical Engineering

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

Mechanical Engineering

First Committee Member (Chair)

Schreyer, Howard

Second Committee Member

Sulsky, Deborah

Document Type

Thesis

Language

English

Recommended Citation

Baker, Tyler. "Modeling gap effects in jointed rock." (2012). https://digitalrepository.unm.edu/me_etds/55