The Potential And Application Of Sonic Wave Methods In Engineering Rock Characterization

The development of engineering rock classification systems has received considerable at tent ion during the past few years. The purpose, application and method of assigning an index of rock quality, vary considerably between these systems. Several of them are directed toward the assessment of stability and support potential of an excavation whereas other systems are estimating a particular response of the rock, i.e. blastability or ripability. In the most widely accepted engineering rock classification systems, rock quality is expressed either in terms of meaningful descriptions or by a quantitative evaluation of a geomechanical property or properties. The application of sonic wave parameters in the engineering classification of rock mass and rock material has been the subject of considerable interest amongst investigators. The advantages of utilizing such techniques include minimal sample preparation, capabilities for large scale testing and the ability to perform non- destructive as well as reproducible tests. The purpose of the research presented in this paper was to determine the most appropriate sonic wave parameters for engineering rock classification purposes, to utilize these findings in developing new or modifying existing classification systems and, finally, to apply this information in the prediction and analysis of blasting wave characteristics.