This project will obtain data from actual case histories of underground construction in jointed rock masses to validate and guide novel, potentially useful analytical methods developed at Berkeley in the last six years. These methods, lumped under the title "discontinumm mechanics" include a geometric analysis (block theory) and a numerical analysis (discontinuous deformation analysis). The case histories selected are in different types of rocks that contain so many joints that continuum mechanics may not be applicable and where, in contrast, application of discontinuum mechanics is appropriate. The cases include an underground powerhouse to be constructed in Mexico, a vehicular tunnel to be enlarged from a pilot tunnel in Kentucky, and a shaft to be excavated in Nevada. Careful geotechnical mapping is in progress or has been completed in each case so the data will be available with which to perform verification studies. Forward modelling predictions will be matched against actual behavior. Actual block movements will be back calculated. The potential of block theory and discontinuous deformation analysis as tools for designers of underground works will then be enhanced as these approaches are tested and adjusted for the "real work".
