Analytical models for rock bolts

Three analytical models have been developed for rock bolts: one for bolts subjected to a concentrated pull load in pullout tests, one for bolts installed in uniformly deformed rock masses, and one for bolts subjected to the opening of individual rock joints. The development of the models has been based on the description of the mechanical coupling at the interface between the bolt and the grout medium for grouted bolts, or between the bolt and the rock for Frictionally coupled bolts. For rock bolts in pullout tests, the shear stress of the interface attenuates exponentially with increasing distance from the point of loading when the deformation is compatible across the interface. Decoupling may start first at the loading point when the applied load is large enough and then propagate towards the far end of the bolt with a Further increase in the applied load. The magnitude of the shear stress on the decoupled bolt section depends on the coupling mechanism at the interface. For fully grouted bolts, the shear stress on the decoupled section is lower than the peak shear strength of the interface, while for fully frictionally coupled bolts it is approximately the same as the peak shear strength. For rock bolts installed in uniformly deformed rock, the loading process of the bolts due to rock deformation has been taken into account in developing the model. Model simulations confirm the previous findings that a bolt in situ has a pick-up length, an anchor length and a neutral point. It is also revealed that the face plate plays a significant role in enhancing the reinforcement effect. In jointed rock masses, several axial stress peaks may occur along the bolt because of the opening of rock joints intersecting the bolt. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.