Influence of rock micro-scale properties and material heterogeneity on rock engineering modeling

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Mechanical and geometrical properties of rock at grain scale (micro-scale) govern the behaviour of rock-masses at all scales. In recent years several micromechanical modeling techniques (e.g., DEM, FEM/DEM, PFC) have been developed to simulate large scale rock engineering phenomena. Even though these numerical methods use micro-scale input parameters, to date, it does not exist any clear procedure on how to relate them to measured material properties, thus, researchers often use cumbersome numerical procedures to calibrate and verify their models. With the present research program I aim at developing methodologies for addressing those limitations. In the frame of this research program (1) mechanical and geometrical characterization of the rock microstructure, (2) highly controlled laboratory tests, and (3) advanced hybrid finite/discrete element models will be combined to investigate the influence of rock micro- and macro- structure on failure processes in rock at all scales. It is expected that this approach will contribute to drastically improve the quality of our numerical simulations by constraining the models with micromehcanical material properties and measured internal geometry as input. The anticipated outcome of this research program will contribute to reduce the uncertainties related to rock engineering problems associated with any underground construction such as deep nuclear waste repositories and mines, as well as increase confidence in rock engineering design. The research program offers a unique opportunity for highly qualified personnel training in experimental and numerical rock mechanics, and, in particular, it will strengthen the Canadian mineral and oil & gas industry.