Nonlinear Regression Analysis for Deep Rock Mass Parameters of the Hoek-Brown Failure Criterion Based on the Differential Evolution

The Hoek-Brown (H-B) failure criterion is an empirical failure criterion. The estimates of Hoek-Brown criterion parameters, such as the geological strength index (GSI) and the disturbance coefficient (D), are usually subjective. This paper focused on modifying the initial estimates of GSI and D to improve the accuracy of parameters. The nonlinear regression model (NLRM) of the Hoek-Brown failure criterion was proposed to analyze the rock parameters by using the sensitivity analysis and the displacement equation of the surrounding rocks. Then, a reasonable back analysis method was developed by introducing the differential evolution (DE), which was used to accurately obtain the parameters of the Hoek-Brown failure criterion in practical engineering. This method was successfully used to analyze the stability of the roadway in a deep coal mine. The results showed that the NLRM can better reflect the relationship between GSI, D, μ and the displacement of roadways, and the back analysis results are consistent with the filed monitoring results. This method can provide a helpful reference for modifying the influence of empirical and subjective factors on H-B parameters selection, and improving the accuracy of Hoek-Brown criterion parameters in the similar engineering applications.