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Interpretation of in situ stress measurements in anisotropic rocks with the doorstopper method

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Summary

A correct interpretation of in situ stress measurements by means of the doorstopper technique in cross anisotropic rocks requires that 10 stress concentration factors at the bottom of the borehole be known instead of the 3 which are needed for isotropic rocks. In order to analyse the data obtained in a site investigation in a gneiss of the Alpine region, these factors were determined by a three-dimensional high-order finite-element model. The results are presented and compared with those obtained by means of first approximation methods. The feasibility of carrying out measurements in anisotropic rock by means of only 2 boreholes is discussed and it is shown that in practice 3 properly oriented boreholes are needed in this case too.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Mathematical Model Department, ISMES, Bergamo, Italy

    M. Borsetto

  2. Construction Division, ENEL, Rome, Italy

    S. Martinetti

  3. Department of Structural and Geotechnical Engineering, Univ. of Rome, Italy

    R. Ribacchi (Professor of Rock Mechanics)

Authors
  1. M. Borsetto
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  2. S. Martinetti
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  3. R. Ribacchi
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Borsetto, M., Martinetti, S. & Ribacchi, R. Interpretation of in situ stress measurements in anisotropic rocks with the doorstopper method. Rock Mech Rock Engng 17, 167–182 (1984). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01042548

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01042548

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