Long-term creep and microscopic deformation mechanisms of sandstone using rock rheology creep equipment and scanning through high-resolution 3D XRM

Since rock is heterogeneous, hence its behavior is always variable. The governing parameters in rock deformations are time, applied load, composition, water content, temperature and loading conditions including confinement and loading rate. Time-dependent deformation study is extremely important for the prevention of hazards such as rockburst, roof fall and collapse. In the current study, sandstone samples from Kouzidong Mine China are analyzed using long-term rheological creep tests and advanced microscopic scanning using 3D X-ray microscopy (XRM). Time is the main governing factor in rock rheological creep study. The current study focuses on the microscopic deformation of selected rock using rheological creep and microscopic analysis. Rock behaves differently under different applied loads; therefore, two different loads are applied on two sandstone samples. Two samples are scanned before and after rheological creep testing. The uniaxial constant load applied on the first sample is 40% of the uniaxial compressive strength of the rock (sigma 1 = 40%sigma c) for one month. The behavior of the first sample shows an instantaneous creep and stable creep. The maximum uniaxial strain is 0.0307. The scanning results show evidence of microfractures in sandstone sample 1 at a lower load. There is evidence of grain movement and boundary alteration. The grain movement depends on the bonding between different grains. The second sample is loaded at 50% the of uniaxial compressive strength (sigma 1 = 50%sigma c). The maximum uniaxial strain for sample 2 is 0.0408. Creep behavior is the same and the microscopic deformation is enhanced with increasing applied load.