Significance and Use

Results of this type of test method are used to predict displacements in rock mass caused by loads from a structure or from underground construction. It is one of several tests that should be performed. The resulting in situ modulus is commonly less than the elastic modulus determined in the laboratory.

The modulus is determined using an elastic solution for a uniformly distributed load (uniform stress) over a circular area acting on a semi-infinite elastic medium that produces a constant normal displacement of the loaded surface area of the medium.

This test method is normally performed at ambient temperature, but equipment can be modified or substituted for operations at other temperatures.

1. Scope

1.1 This test method covers the preparation, equipment, test procedure, and data reduction for determining in situ modulus of deformation of a rock mass using the rigid plate loading method.

1.2 This test method is designed to be conducted in an adit or small underground chamber; however, with suitable modifications it could be conducted at the surface.

1.3 This test method is usually conducted parallel or perpendicular to the anticipated axis of thrust, as dictated by the design load.

1.4 Time dependent tests can be performed but are to be reported in another standard.

1.5 Observed and calculated values shall conform to the guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in Practice D 6026 .

1.5.1 The method used to specify how data are collected, calculated, or recorded in this standard is not directly related to the accuracy to which the data can be applied in design or other uses, or both. How one applies the results obtained using this standard is beyond its scope.

1.6 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

1.7 The references appended to this standard contain further information on this test method.

1.8 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory requirements prior to use. For specific precaution statements, see Section 8.

2. Referenced Documents (purchase separately) The documents listed below are referenced within the subject standard but are not provided as part of the standard.

ASTM Standards

D653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids

D2113 Practice for Rock Core Drilling and Sampling of Rock for Site Investigation

D4395 Test Method for Determining In Situ Modulus of Deformation of Rock Mass Using Flexible Plate Loading Method

D4403 Practice for Extensometers Used in Rock

D4879 Guide for Geotechnical Mapping of Large Underground Openings in Rock

D5079 Practices for Preserving and Transporting Rock Core Samples

D5434 Guide for Field Logging of Subsurface Explorations of Soil and Rock

D6026 Practice for Using Significant Digits in Geotechnical Data

D6032 Test Method for Determining Rock Quality Designation (RQD) of Rock Core

Keywords

adit; deformation; displacement; field testing; fracture testing; loading tests; modulus of deformation; pressure testing; rigid plate loading method; rock; stress; underground environments; Adit; Deformation--rock; Displacement--rock environments; Field testing--rock; Fracture testing--rock; Loading tests--rock/related materials; Modulus--soil/rock applications; Pressure testing--rock; Rigid plate loading method; Rock materials/properties/analysis; Stress--rock; Underground environments;

ICS Code

ICS Number Code 93.020 (Earth works. Excavations. Foundation construction. Underground works)

DOI: 10.1520/D4394-08

ASTM International is a member of CrossRef.

ASTM D4394