Karampinos, E, Hadjigeorgiou, J, Turcotte, P, Drolet, M-M & Mercier-Langevin, F 2014, 'Empirical and numerical investigation on the behaviour of foliated rock masses under high stress conditions', in M Hudyma & Y Potvin (eds), Deep Mining 2014: Proceedings of the Seventh International Conference on Deep and High Stress Mining, Australian Centre for Geomechanics, Perth, pp. 345-361, https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_rep/1410_23_Hadjigeorgiou
(https://papers.acg.uwa.edu.au/p/1410_23_Hadjigeorgiou/)
Abstract: A large number of underground hard rock mines report squeezing ground conditions. The resulting deformation is often associated with the presence of foliation and high stress conditions. In order to maintain the operational integrity of excavations in squeezing ground conditions, it may be necessary to make major investments in support, and extensive rehabilitation work. This paper presents the results of field observations and numerical modelling investigations in understanding the mechanisms and parameters that control squeezing in foliated ground. A methodology for modelling such conditions using the distinct element program 3DEC is presented. The proposed technique reproduced the observed buckling mechanism and has addressed the influence of foliation and fractures within the rock mass. The results of the numerical models are reviewed with reference to the observed squeezing mechanism and deformation levels observed in the LaRonde and Lapa mines of Agnico Eagle in Canada.