Examination of Joints by the Finite Element Method

Abstract

<p>The unloading of a rock by excavation produces a stress pattern that can result in the production of joints.</p> <p>The application of the finite element method to a rock face will outline the stress pattern resulting from this excavation.</p> <p>As joints form along the zones of highest stresses in the rock mass, one can, by applying the finite element method predict the zone along which joint is most likely to occur and thus the propagation path of that joint.</p>