Handbook on Mechanical Properties of Rocks

Knowledge of the mechanical properties of rocks is essential in any rock mechanics investigation and design connected with mining, tunneling, dam design, rock cutting and rock blasting, etc. After predicting the state of stress, strain or stored energy from the analysis of the loads or the forces being applied to the rock, its behavior, i.e., fracture, flow or simply its deformation, can be estimated from its mechanical properties. Basically, volume 1 deals with the strength properties of rock and the various factors that influence the results obtained. The mechanical properties of a rock depend primarily on its mineral composition and construction, i.e., its structural and textural features. They also depend upon the condition it is when tested (e.g., temperature, water content). 259 references.