Experimental investigation and constitutive modelling of weak rocks subject to mechanical and moisture degradation

该项目的目的是推进软岩力学的实验、理论和计算基础，并为科学家和工程师提供急需的预测工具，以定量评估和评估其在地质环境中的行为。根据研究的理论结果，将开发数值算法，以帮助工程师将该项目的发现应用于岩土工程问题。通过在软岩的特性中加入以前被忽视的方面，如力学、环境和循环荷载退化，将增加对设计方法的信心，从而避免设计成本过高。

The aim of this project is to advance experimental, theoretical and computational bases for the mechanics of weak rocks, and provide scientists and engineers with much-needed predictive tools for quantitative evaluation and assessment of their behaviour in geological settings. Based on the theoretical results of the research, numerical algorithms will be developed that will assist engineers to apply the findings of the project to geotechnical engineering problems. By incorporating previously neglected aspects in the behaviour of weak rocks such as mechanical, environmental as well as cyclic loading degradation, confidence in the design methods will be increased to the point that costly over designs can be avoided.