Influence of joint stiffness and roughness on elastic wave propagation in jointed rock masses

초록

The propagation of elastic waves in jointed rock masses is affected by stress levels and joint conditions, particularly joint stiffness, which remains underexplored. To investigate this, dental gypsum specimens with four levels of joint stiffness and three joint roughness coefficients (JRC) were used to study the effects on wave propagation. Quasi-static resonant column (QSRC) tests were conducted under different vertical stress levels to assess the impact of joint stiffness and roughness on elastic wave velocity. The results showed that joint stiffness significantly influenced P-wave velocity, with a reduction in stiffness leading to a noticeable decrease in velocity. Additionally, increased joint roughness lowered P-wave velocity but increased S-wave velocity, suggesting joint stiffness has a stronger effect at higher stiffness levels. Smoother joints reduced S-wave velocity and increased stress sensitivity under normal stress. Although joint roughness had a lesser effect on S-wave velocity than P-wave velocity, it significantly impacted S-wave variations in weaker, low-stiffness joints. A velocity model was proposed to predict elastic wave velocities under different stress levels and joint conditions, providing insights into the complex behavior of wave propagation in jointed rock masses. © 2025

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