Mathematical model and numerical calculations of disastrous pressure phenomena in rock mass with weakening cavity

Abstract

The study focuses on deformation and stability of structurally nonuniform rock masses in the vicinity of a mined-out void. Rock masses can for a long time accumulate energy of external forces as internal stresses. The accumulated energy can release both as aseismic relaxation of stresses and as rock bumps and rock bursts. The numerical analysis uses the rock mass model including self-balancing stresses and strength loss. The paper gives examples of calculations of standard problems in mining and illustrates feasibility of modeling disastrous pressure phenomena.