Int. J. RockMech. Min.Sci. &Geomech.Abstr.Vol. 27. No. 4. pp. 269-281, 1990 0148-9062/90$3.00 + 0.

00
Printed in Great Britain.All rights reserved Copyright ~ 1990 PergamonPress plc

Design for Grouted Rock Bolts Based on the

Convergence Control Method
B. I N D R A R A T N A f
P. K. KAISER**

A design approach for the application offully grouted bolts as a passive support
system in underground openings is introduced in this paper. The analytical
solution was developed based on elasto-plastic concepts and was verified by
laboratory simulations with physical models. The application o f the theory to
one case history and a comparison with an empirical design method ( R M R )
are presented. Computational examples and general design guides are provided
to facilitate the use of the proposed method in practice.

NOMENCLATURE m = model;
p = prototype;
a= tunnel radius; b = bolt;
r= distance from tunnel centre to point of interest; g = ground;
K,, = ratio of horizontal to vertical in situ stress; j =joint;
a,, = far field stress horizontal stress;
tr, = radial stress; Superscript
tro= tangential stress; * = material with properties equivalent to those of a reinforced
~, = uniaxial compressive strength; rock mass.
a , = s.a c = post peak compressive (residual) strength;
s = post-peak strength reduction factor; 0 < s < I;
at = tensile strength;
ay = yield strength of bolts; INTRODUCTION
m = tan2(n/4 + 4U2);
,P= plastic radial strain increment; D i s p l a c e m e n t m o n i t o r i n g plays a n i m p o r t a n t role in the
0p = plastic tangential strain increment; o b s e r v a t i o n a l o r " d e s i g n - a s - y o u - g o " a p p r o a c h for u n -
~r= failure strain in uniaxial compression test; d e r g r o u n d o p e n i n g s . In p a r t i c u l a r , t u n n e l c o n v e r g e n c e
~, = a,/E = critical strain;
q~ = friction angle of Mohr--Coulomb material; c a n be c o n s i d e r e d as a p r i m a r y field m e a s u r e m e n t , be-
c = cohesion intercept; cause it is n o t o n l y a readily r e c o r d a b l e i n d i c a t o r o f the
= dilation coefficient; overall g r o u n d r e s p o n s e , b u t its m a g n i t u d e c o n s t i t u t e s a
E = Young's modulus;
very useful p a r a m e t e r for the e v a l u a t i o n o f t u n n e l sta-
G = shear modulus;
v = Poisson's ratio; bility. A l t e r n a t i v e m e a s u r e m e n t s , such as s t r a i n a n d load
L = length of bolt; o b s e r v a t i o n s , are c e r t a i n l y i n f o r m a t i v e b u t o f t e n give
d = diameter of bolt;
Sr = tangential (circumferential) bolt spacing; results that are difficult to i n t e r p r e t d u e to their sensitiv-
St = longitudinal bolt spacing; ity to i n s t a l l a t i o n p r o c e d u r e s a n d localized rock mass
p = radial distance to the neutral point on a bolt; failure. C o n s e q u e n t l y , the effectiveness o f g r o u t e d bolts
~. = friction factor for bolt/ground interaction;
/~ -~ bolt density parameter; c a n be assessed best in terms o f c o n v e r g e n c e r e d u c t i o n s .
R = radius of the plastic zone; U n t e n s i o n e d , g r o u t e d bolts o r friction bolts d e v e l o p
R* = radius of equivalent plastic zone; load as the rock m a s s d e f o r m s . Relatively small displace-
u, = wall displacement of the unsupported opening;
u,* = wall displacement of the reinforced opening; m e n t s ( 4 - 5 m m ) are n o r m a l l y sufficient to m o b i l i z e axial
u*/u, = normalized covergence ratio; bolt t e n s i o n by s h e a r stress t r a n s m i s s i o n f r o m the rock
u, = elastic wall displacement; to the b o l t surface. These bolts o r d o w e l s fall i n t o the
~* = radial strain at the reinforced tunnel wall;
i = bolt effectiveness; c a t e g o r y o f passive s u p p o r t if they are n o t p r e l o a d e d .
t/= scale factor; T h e y have been successfully a p p l i e d in y i e l d i n g g r o u n d ,
Subscripts a n d f o u n d to be often m o r e e c o n o m i c a l a n d . m o r e
p = plastic;
effective t h a n active bolts. F o r e x a m p l e , at the W a s h i n g -
t = total; ton. D.C. M e t r o , fully g r o u t e d bolts h a v e s h o w n to
r = radial; reduce 2 - d a y d i s p l a c e m e n t s f r o m 7.6-15.2 to 2.5--5 m m
0 = tangential;
[!]. G r o u t e d bolts are also widely used in m i n i n g for the
s t a b i l i z a t i o n o f drifts a n d shafts. S i m p l i c i t y o f installa-
tGeomechanics Research Centre, Laurentian University, Sudbury, tion, versatility a n d relatively low cost o f r e b a r s are
Ontario P3E 2C6. Canada.
**Divisionof Geotechnieal Engineering, Asian Institute of Technology. f u r t h e r benefits o f g r o u t e d bolts in c o m p a r i s o n tO their
G.P.O. Box 2754. Bangkok 10501, Thailand. alternative counterparts.
269

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 270 I N D R A R A T N A and KAISER: G R O U T E D ROCK BOLTS

The design of fully grouted bolts by either empirical Eo1~

methods or force-equilibrium methods does not properly ~0

assess the influence of bolting on rock mass displace-
ments. The solution presented here provides an alterna- [] t set ~r.
tive method based on a convergence control approach.
The general elasto-plastic solutions for the design of
~ t - ~ -~, S ~ I ~
underground tunnel openings [2] have been extended in o e m m , 0 r ÷ O~

the following analysis to accommodate for the influence

of bolt/ground interaction, size of opening and the bolt
pattern on yielding and tunnel wall displacements.

Or
Part A: Analytical Solution and Verification
Fig. 2. Failure criterion and flow rule.
by Laboratory Simulation
The analytical model considers a deep circular open- where:
ing excavated in a hydrostatic stress field (Ko = 1), in a
homogeneous, isotropic material with time-independent m*=m(i+/~) and a*=tr,(l+/~).
properties. The material behaviour is described by an
elastic, brittle-plastic model with an instantaneous The bolt density parameter (/3) is a dimensionless
strength drop at peak stress (Fig. 1) and following a parameter that reflects the relative density of bolts
linear Mohr-Coulomb failure criterion. The post-peak with respect to the tunnel perimeter. It takes into
consideration the shear stresses which oppose the
behaviour is described by a simplified non-associated
plastic flow rule with a constant rate of dilation (Fig. 2). rock mass displacements near the tunnel wall. The
following algebraic expression defines the bolt density
The parameter :t is the dilation coefficient that character-
parameter;
izes the yielding material. For a reinforced material, the
range of 1 < x < m is most appropriate because :t = I rr d2a
and ~ = m represent conditions of zero volumetric = sLs---7" (3)
change and associated flow rule, respectively. The pro-
posed theory predicts the ultimate convergence (at The friction factor (),) relates the mobilized shear
several tunnel diameters behind the face) where 3-D stress acting on the grouted bolt to the stress acting
effects can be neglected. Hence, the deformation pattern normal to the bolt. It is analogous to the coefficient of
near the tunnel is described by plane strain condition.
For simplicity, an axisymmetric bolt pattern consisting ~a~ 03 + do3
of identical bolts with equal spacing around the circum-
ference and along the longitudinal axis of the tunnel is
considered.
The equilibrium of an unreinforced element (Fig. 3a)
following a linear Mohr-Coulomb failure criterion [2]
can be represented by the following differential equation:
do',. (1 -m)cr, ~'.
dr "~ r = - -r " (I)
For a free body diagram of a reinforced element
(Fig. 3b) with shear stresses along the borehole wall, a
modified equilibrium equation is given by lndraratna
and Kaiser [3]: st.

dar (I-m*)o'r tr* (2) '~ 03 + do3

r =T'
- - unsupported
CT
------ reinforced
o© °
A
o¢r

/ -]

Fig. 3. Stress acting on a rock mass element for analysis of bolt/ground

Fig. I. Elastic. brittle-plastic model, interaction.
 I N D R A R A T N A and KAISER: G R O U T E D ROCK BOLTS 271

friction or the bond angle used for the analysis of plastic zone" (EPZ) because it consists of a material with
reinforced earth and split-set bolts. The dimensionless improved strength properties, representing the yielded,
ratio fl/;. is the inverse function of the bolt spacing for reinforced rock mass. The radius (R*) of the EPZ is
a given bolt and tunnel geometry. It varies generally primarily a function of/L L, a, p and a o. Its determina-
between 0.1 and 0,4 [4]. tion is categorized according to the extent of the EPZ
relative to the location of the neutral point and the
The role of bolt length and shear stress distribution
boundary of the reinforced zone (Fig. 5):
The effectiveness of a grouted bolt depends on its
length relative to the extent of the zone of overstressed (I) minimal yielding condition: R* < p < (a + L),
rock or yield zone. The shear and axial stress distribu- (II) major yielding condition: p < R* < (a + L),
tions of a grouted bolt are also related to the bolt length (III) excessive yielding condition: R* > (a + L).
because equilibrium must be achieved between the bolt The complete mathematical derivations are given by
and the surrounding ground. The relation between the Indraratna and Kaiser [3] and a summary of the final
shear and axial stress distributions as a function of the equations is given in the Appendix.
bolt length is illustrated in Fig. 4 based on both theory
and field observation [5-7]. The influence of the rela- Influence of grouted bolts on tunnel wall stability
tively thin grout annulus on rock mass deformation has
The radial strains and displacements at the tunnel wall
been ignored. The positive shear stresses on the pick-up are the most fundamental quantities required to evaluate
length of the bolt restrain the rock from moving into the
the stability of a tunnel opening. In the field, these
opening, whereas the negative shear stresses acting along
quantities can be monitored reliably. The radial strain
the anchor length ensure equilibrium of the bolt. The (e*) and displacement (u*) of the reinforced tunnel wall
change in the direction of shear stresses creates a neutral
can be predicted from the following equations, after the
point on the bolt at a radial distance (p), where the
extent of the EPZ (R*) has been determined for the
relative displacement at the bolt/grout interface is zero.
appropriate Category I-III [3]:
Increasing the bolt length (L) and the bolt density
parameter (fl) has the effect of creating a zone of (* = ~x(I -- V)O'cr M(~)[(R,/a)m+, _ 1]
improved, reinforced rock in the region surrounding the 2G
tunnel opening. Within the zone defined by the pick-up
length of the bolts, the apparent friction angle and the ~(I - v)a c (i - s ) ( R * / a ) t +~ - vac----S~ (4a)
2G 2G'
uniaxial compressive strength are increased, and the
stress is transferred to areas of greater confinement as u~* (I - v)~r~,
discussed elsewhere by lndraratna and Kaiser [8]. Since = 2G {i + g(~)[(R*/a) "+~ - I]}
the extent of yielding is directly related to the material (1 - v)ac
properties, any improvement of the strength and fric- + - - (I - s ) ( R * / a ) " +'), (4b)
2G
tional parameters must reduce the extent of overstressed
rock. Therefore the plastic zone surrounding a rein- where:
forced tunnel has a smaller radius than that of an
M(~) =
unsupported tunnel. This zone is called "equivalent I + ~ - s i n ¢ ( ~ - I)"

~ L ~J ~
anchot~
lengthen,
point
f,
pick-up -~ ) l
lencJt h ~ I ,

ShearStress Axial Sucss

Tunn¢|

•i
,,"" L ,4 L
"'''~'''" P = ln(I + L) - halt

P I
Fig. 4. Stress distribution model for grouted bolts.
 _7., INDRARATNA and KAISER: GROUTED ROCK BOLTS

L be constant irrespective of the bolt density: whereas, the

elastic parameters G and v are considered to be charac-
teristic of the original intact material prior to yielding.
/
Figure 6 illustrates the variation of the predicted wall
displacements for an externally loaded model tunnel
with different bolt patterns and a range of field stresses
up to 14 MPa as discussed later in the test procedure.
P
The representative properties of this reinforced opening
( a / L = 0.8) are: q~ = 32 ~, E / a c= 420, v = 0.25, s = 0.9
Category (I): R" < p < (a + L) (minimal yielding) and :~ = 2. As the bolt density increases, the displace-
ment of the reinforced tunnel wall (u*) decreases and
varies between the upper and lower bounds of the
unsupported tunnel displacements (ua: dashed line A)
and the response of an opening in linear elastic rock (uo:
% / dashed line F). For reinforced openings, a sudden
%% /
_ f increase in convergence (shift to the right as shown in
Fig. 6) occurs for '8 = 0.073-0.22 for ~ro > I 1 MPa. This
transition occurs when all bolts become completely
Category (ll): p < R" < (a + L) (major yielding)
embedded in the plastic zone, when Category III:
R* > (a + L) is reached.
For field stresses in excess of a o = 6 MPa, the normal-

1
ized convergence ratio (u*/ua) is plotted against the bolt
density parameter (8) in Fig. 7. It clearly illustrates the
.J
% / reduction in convergence that can be achieved by bolting.
/
As '8 tends to zero (unsupported tunnel) u* approaches
u~. If the intensity of bolting is excessively large, the
convergence of the reinforced tunnel approaches the
Category (Ill): R" • (a + L) (excessive yielding) elastic value, thereby curtailing the plastic displacements
Fig. 5. Categories of extent of yielding. severely (discussed later in detail). At the lower range of
the field stresses (~,, ~< I I MPa), the normalized conver-
The derivation of the above expressions is based on gence ratio decreases steadily with increasing /L The
the assumption that both radial displacements and radial curves become gradually flatter at higher bolt densities.
stresses are continuous across the elasto-plastic bound- This trend is to be expected because excessive yielding or
aries, regardless of the field stress magnitude. In addition, Category III is not encountered at relatively low stresses,
the post-peak parameters ~ and s are assumed to hence only a gradual variation of u*."u, occurs as
Category II approaches Category I with increasing '8.
However, at higher loads (ao~> 12MPa), the initial
IF ,E D C E3 relatively flat response for / / < 0.15 is due to excessive
yielding associated with Category III. A sudden decrease
I /
/
/ in the normalized convergence ratio is experienced when
/ /3' exceeds 0.15 for ~ro = 12 and 13 MPa. This change is
/
/ again associated with the transition from Category III to
/
o / Category II, when some portion of the bolts is anchored
/
/ in the outer elastic zone. As expected, for even greater
/
/ loads (no > 13 MPa), a higher bolt density ( / / > 0.22) is
/
/ required for the above transition to occur. For very high
/
/ bolt densities ('8 = 0.3), convergence reductions of about
60% can be obtained. The magnitude of convergence
Vl
I reductions is almost independent of the stress level. It is
A: no b o l l s . • = 0 also observed from Fig. 7 that, even for a wide range of
8: B = 0.07:3 field stresses (no = 6-14 MPa), the band width (variation)
C: ,8 = 0 . 1 4 5 of predicted normalized convergence ratios is relatively
D: p - 0.220
small. These characteristics are of great advantage for
E: 15' = 0.291
F: no b o i l s , elastic,
design based on convergence control as discussed further
in Part B (p. 276).
o
0 l 2 S 4 5 6 7 8 9 tO
LABORATORY SIMULATION AND VERIFICATION
TunnelWall Displacements(ram)
Fig. 6. Convergence predicted for model tunnels with various bolt The use of physical models helps to expand g¢otech-
patterns. nical research, because scaled models facilitate the
 INDRARATNA and KAISER: GROUTED ROCK BOLTS 273

100 friction angle: ~bm= ~p;

' ~ 9o
.o critical strain:
o
n-

u
g ,o
8O

\
uniaxial strength ratio:
m
(°i) p

>
,...\ The strain similitude for yielding and failure of bolts
e- 6O
0 can be represented by the following expressions:
: = = = - 6 MPo
50 , N .-6 8 MPo
:::;; 1 0 MPa yielding: (-~b)m=(-~b)p;
~ 12 MPo
40 ..... 1 3 MPa
0 ..... 1 4 MPa
Z failure: (cry) = (a~)
30 i I i i i i Ill p"
0.00 0.04 0,08 0.12 0.16 0.20 0.24 0.2S 0.32
Bolt Density Parameter The comparison of relative deformation characteris-
Fig. 7. Variation of the normalized conversence ratio with the bolt tics between the bolts and the ground yields the follow-
density parameter.
ing similitude equation:
investigation of the influence of specific variables (e.g. in
situ field stresses, intact rock and joint properties, bolt
pattern, etc.) on the response of the rock mass to
excavation of a tunnel. Furthermore, physical modelling Similitude criteria for the modelling of linear discon-
with synthetic materials can be conducted with test tinuities can be satisfied by the following dimensionless
equipment of lower capacity and less sophisticated cut- parameters:
ting tools can be employed due to the lower strength and friction angle of joints: q~j.m= ~j.p,
hardness of model materials. In addition, the use of
artificial rock reduces the cost, hence a large number of joint spacing: Si'°
tests can be conducted. This approach was adopted to Sj.m = I~,

verify the analytical solution introduced earlier. Hence,
an acceptable model had to be constructed with a
material that represents the properties of a real rock
mass. In the case of a reinforced opening, the geometry
and the material properties of the bolts must also be
properly scaled. In order to reproduce the behaviour of
a real opening accurately, geometrical and material
similitude criteria must be satisfied by the model [9, 10].
Geometric shnilitude requirements for a reinforced
opening
Similitude laws based on dimensionless analysis can
be formulated by algebraic operations [1 !] to obtain a
general form of equations common to both the model
and the prototype. The scale factor (r/) represents the
ratio of any specific dimension of the prototype to that
of the model. The most relevant dimensions are: the
tunnel radius (a), the bolt spacing (S), the bolt length
(L) and the diameter (d) of the bolts. Therefore, the
geometric scale factor must be the same for the following
dimensionless ratios:
a~ Sp Lp
amSmLmdm'
where, the subscripts p and m designate the prototype
and the model, respectively.
Material similitude parameters
The following dimensionless geotechnical parameters
must be accurately established for the artificial rock in
order to simulate the real behaviour:
Poisson's ratio:
orientation angle: 0m = 0p.
MODEL TUNNEL TESTING IN ARTIFICIAL ROCK
A model material that obeys all similitude laws simul-
taneously for a given rock is practically impossible to
manufacture. However, the simulation of a general rock
class or a range of different rocks is feasible. In order to
verify the analytical predictions, a synthetic soft rock
(GYPSTONE) was developed with a mixture of gypsum
cement (10%), fine uniform Ottawa sand (75.8%), water
(14.15%) and a retarder, NazHPO4 (0.05%). The princi-
ples of similitude require that for a typical soft rock:
0 . 2 5 < v < 0 . 3 5 , 25 ° < q b < 4 5 °, 2 0 0 < E / a : < 5 0 0 and
0.05 < ~r,/crc < 0.1. Uniaxial, triaxial compression and
split cylinder tests indicated that "gypstone" (4 = 32°,
v = 0.25, E = 1450 MPa, ~rc = 3.5 MPa, crt = 0.26 MPa)
satisfies the similitude criteria for modelling relatively
weak sedimentary rocks. Figures 8-10 provide evidence to
support the suitability of gypstone for modelling the be-
haviour of a wide range of sedimentary rocks. The granu-
dp lar structure of gypstone physically resembles a typical
sandstone. Further details of this synthetic rock and the
manufacturing technique is documented elsewhere [12].
Figure 11 shows a typical test specimen reinforced
with resin-bonded brass rods, which were found to be
most appropriate for modelling prototype steel bolts
after careful consideration of the pertinent similitude
criteria. The circumferential arrangement of eight identi-
cal trapezoidal segments defines a complete circular
opening. Hence the installation of two rows of bolts per
vm= %; sample represents a pattern of 16 bolts around the
274 INDRARATNA and KAISER: G R O U T E D ROCK BOLTS

• I i / • /
R." ./B / /.."E A/ /
• c, ["
i o z/ B
/ / C .""
g~1. - . /• / .t G, / /
/ / /
• I i1...)
/
.9 "/ / " Iu
~ ~,~. /1 / //"...D
•'I o I'" /
.:, o/i.." / / / ,) ...."
g ' '//.!. /. /
../ ~ ~,
< / . .. <: .5. / .-"
;,

,.:,
"I
...
:/
.'."

~..i
4"/
/./.f"i /
I ~ "
°

/I
,
1,."/
/.::; ,.:" /
../.. /
LEGEND
-- -- O= WolFcm~o LS
"1":/ Ll"l"i
l" / LEGEND
t~
//: ~ - - - B= ~ Sl~le
.'tl i:'/ .... R; 011 Creek SS , :1/ -- --" C: tuning I~l~.l.te
o ,r ..-- D: O i l Creek SS
::If ,-'/
31 ~/
----"
--
B:
Lunlng Dolomite
C:
tJalfcaap LS
- ~> ! - .o..'Gy~t,~"
.i] t - ~ -- D:
Muddy ShaLe
:/ r/ .... E:
Berea LS
;k ~ ' 'G: ' G y p g t o n e '
Rock Data: Heuerand Elendron[9]
0 I I I I I I I I I I
0,00 0.50 l.O0 1.50 2.00 2.50
c~ !/I Rock Data: Heuer and Hendron [9J
I I I I i i i i 1
0 s/O'~
• 00 0.50 I .OO l .50 2.00 2.SO Fig. 10. Failure of gypstone and sedimentary rocks in triaxial
compression.
G,,/G~

Fig. 8. Comparison of gypstone with sedimentary rocks in triaxial was varied (25, 50, 75 and 100 mm) while maintaining a
compression. constant transverse spacing (ST = 50 mm) which pro-
vided different bolt densities (/~ = 0.073, 0.145, 0.22 and
complete circumference (equal spacing) of the opening. 0.291). In order to assess the influence of bolt length on
This particular sample shape has the advantage of the behaviour of the model tunnel, 50- and 100-mm long
enhancing the scale (r/) of the physical model, since brass rods (2.5 mm in dia) were installed in two different
under hydrostatic field stress, the deformation anywhere samples for each bolt density. A typical sample rein-
around a circular opening can be ideally simulated by the forced with 100-mm long rods at a density of/~ = 0.145
behaviour of one representative segment as a result of
perfect axisymmetry. The longitudinal bolt spacing (SL) O"o
/. ,t, I. t J,

i i i i i i ! i ) i i

E
• / /t ./ j ."
n." B///C O/ / .
// ~/ ..'F t T r ? r

I~ ~/ .'
.. /,'/° ,.,'.. r-130mm

.. // /."/ .-

/,'/.,;:.
.. / I /I..
• /' / //.."
% : /,,///:.. (A) PLAN: GEOMETRY OF A TYPICAL TEST SAMPLE

b : / /, /
."
/ I .,'""
,' 100 mm
.. I,'1//.'"
. I;I .'/.'"
,,'/,; St.

: I¢ ;Y - - 0; .~ble
:171//." -- - E: Dolomite ST

:y • I/Ill/- ....
°' .o,°.,.,,.
F: L l e e a t o n e Io I

• Bolt positions

• Cony=fixate m ~ n ' i n I points

Rock Data: Hock a n d Brown [14]
g

.00 O.SO 0.60 0.90 I .20 1.50 .80 - 0.145

Gs/G= {a) ELEVATION A-A: REINFORCED TUNNEL SECTION

Fig. 9. Failure envelopes of gypstone and various rocks. Fig. 11. Typical reinforced gypstone test sample.
 INDRARATNA and KAISER:
(Fig. 1i) stimulates a sector of a real tunnel of 5.2 m in
diameter, reinforced with 2-m long bolts at a spacing of
I x ! m (i.e. r/= 20: l).
The reinforced gypstone samples were subjected to
plane strain loading by the process simulation test (PST)
apparatus developed by Kaiser and Morgenstern [13].
The application and transfer of load to the test specimen
is illustrated in Fig. 12, where the simulated hydrostatic
field stress (~o) was applied (Y-direction) at the outer
edge of the sample. The magnitude of ao was increased
by increments of I MPa, and the longitudinal stress (a:)
was adjusted accordingly to maintain plane strain condi-
tions (i.e. zero displacements in the Z-direction). The
frictional resistance at the loading boundaries was min-
imized by a pair of teflon sheets inserted between the
sample and the steel frame.
Simulation of reinforced openings in jointed rock
When a rock mass contains four or more sets ofjoint
planes, its behaviour can be considered to be homoge-
neous and isotropic with reduced equivalent strength
and deformation parameters, as explained by Hock and
Brown [14] and Bray [i 5]. Isotropic behaviour cannot be
assumed if one of the joint planes becomes more pro-
nounced (weaker or stronger) than the others. In order
to model a heavily jointed rock mass, four sets of joint
planes (inclined at 45 ° to each other) were introduced
into several samples during casting. A typical jointed
specimen is shown in Fig. 13. The joint density is reduced
.k,.,,on
i ~ LoadLng
111 111 l
ptAN
o +
I L I I I I
" " " -
I
Tunnel
C o n c r e t a Block
IT I TT T I
Reaction Read
ELEVATION = AA
Fig. 12. Transfer of load to the test specimens.
GROUTED ROCK BOLTS 275
beyond a distance greater than 275 mm from the tunnel
wall for convenience during casting and also because this
outer region remains elastic for the range of boundary
stresses applied by the PST apparatus. The joints were
simulated by pairs of smooth plaster plates (~ = 22°).
Further details of modelling jointed rock and the deter-
mination of its equivalent isotropic properties are dis-
cussed in detail by Indraratna and Kaiser [4].
Verification of the analytical model
A complete comparison of strains and displacements
(measured vs predicted) at various distances from the
tunnel wall for a wide range of stress levels
(ao = 0-14 MPa) has been presented by Indraratna [12]
and summarized by Indraratna and Kaiser [16]. The
observed data convincingly support the theoretical pre-
dictions. Only a comparison of the tunnel convergence
data is presented here. A summary of normalized con-
vergence data for various bolt patterns (L/a = 0.8) is
illustrated in Fig. 14 for intact samples. The range of
measured convergence data (dashed and vertically
shaded) is plotted for several selected stress levels
(t7o = 5-14 MPa) and is compared with the correspond-
ing range of the predicted results (solid lines and hori-
zontally shaded). The band of observed data closely
overlaps with that of the predictions, indicating excellent
agreement with the theory. Figure 15 compares the band
of normalized convergence measurements with that of
the predictions (vertically shaded) for the same stress
levels and bolt patterns for the jointed samples. The
predicted results fall within the slightly wider band of
observed data, and support the analytical equations.
Y In both Figs 14 and 15, the theoretical elastic response
is also plotted for ao = 5 and 14 MPa. For unjointed rock
(Fig. 14), the elastic response is reached when the bolt
Wedge
density reaches 0.2 at ao = 5 MPa and more than 0.4 for
ao = 14 MPa. On the other hand, in jointed rock (Fig.
15), a higher bolt density of 0.3 for tro= 5 MPa was
needed to approach elastic behaviour. Bolt densities far
I / \ I / I
x
~l\ /l\t/
~7 ; l~lT[/
\717
I J o I N'r
Fig. 13. Test sample with four sets of joint planes.
276 I N D R A R A T N A and KAISER: G R O U T E D ROCK BOLTS

reinforcement configuration. However, the normalized

.... THEORY: EL~TI~
LEGEND
~qNGE
convergence ratio (u*/u~) is relatively insensitive to
N "~" ~ TEST: ~
moderate changes of the fundamental similitude
parameters (ok, v, E/a:, etc.) for a given reinforcement
- ~ ~, = B to 14 MPa configuration (,8, L). The relatively thin band width of
o= x J ~ ~ L / a = O.8 u*/u~ in Figs 14 and 15 also reflects the fact that
moderate changes of the field stress level do not signifi-
cantly influence the computed magnitude of the normal-
=o .~'~s. " ~ ized convergence ratio. Consequently, the normalized
convergence ratio is applicable for design, even if the
material properties of the rock cannot be clearly defined
C (poorly defined) or if the in situ stress field cannot be
L3 x 8t~ accurately determined. The relation illustrated in Fig. 14
can be used in design as explained by the following
g 0..2;4. . . . . . . . . . ! .ME,
example. For instance, consider a tunnel of 5.2 m in
diameter, excavated in a fractured weak rock (~# = 33 °)
0 1 I , I I I I I

o.00 O.lO 0,20 0.~0 0.40

at a depth of 400m(a,,= 10MPa). If the opening is
reinforced by 2-m long grouted bolts (L/a =0.8), the
Bolt Density Parameter. /~
tunnel convergence can be reduced by 30-40% for a bolt
Fig. 14. Variation of the convergence with bolt density for
L = 100 mm. density parameter (,8) of 0.15-0.2. This could be
achieved by installing 30 mm dia, rough (shaped) rebars
in excess of 0.4 would be required at ao = 14 MPa to read (2 >/0.5) with a spacing of 0.9 x 0.9 m.
convergence values equal to those of a tunnel in elastic
rock. Obviously, a total convergence of less than the Influence of bolt length on tunnel convergence
computed elastic response is unrealistic. However, the Figure 16 illustrates the normalized convergence rela-
range of bolt density parameters (,8) employed in reality tionships for predicted (vertically shaded) and measured
seldom exceeds the upper bounds of ,8 as stated above, (between dashed lines) data bands for short bolts
hence, the applicability of the analytical model is not (L/a = 0.4). The predicted range of data for longer bolts
limited in general practice. The use of these normalized (L/a = 0.8, horizontally shaded) has been repeated on
convergence curves in design is explained in the follow- the same figure for ease of comparison. The close
ing section. correlation between the predicted and measured conver-
gence data for short bolts emphasizes further the capac-
Part B: Application of Analytical Model ity of the analytical model. The reduction in total
for Design convergence attained is less pronounced for short bolts,
because the excessive yielding condition (Category III)
Normalized convergence ratio as a design aid becomes increasingly predominant as the bolt length
The total wall displacement (u*) is a function of the decreases, particularly at relatively high field stresses
properties of the rock, the field stress level and the (ao>>, 12MPa). For example, at a high bolt density

i i t 1 i I 1
! i ~ i l l l
LEGEND
LEGEND . --'--" THEORY: ELASTIC RF~GE
.... THEORY: E L R S T I C RFI'GE ' THEORY; E L f l S ÷ P L R S RANGE
THEORY= EU~+I~J~ ~ \ -- -- TEST= r1F_flSURED RRNGE
-- -- TEST= rlEP,S L J l E ~ R B N ~

~, - 5 to 14 l'IPa
L/a - 0.8
.%

i
E
n.-

elastic range Stress Level

Stress Level
elastic range * 5 MPa • 5 nPm
0 x e l~°m U x 8 IIPa
/IPa = I0 t l P a
z 1"2 rlPa Y t 2 MPa
= 14 I I P I
(rPi4 • 14 rlPa

;.:iZ'n~a . . . . . . . . . . . .
I J I I I I
I 1 i I l I I

0.00 O.t0 0.20 0.30 .40 0.00 0.10 0.20 0.B0 0.40

BoLt Denslty Parameter. # Bolt Density Parameter. #

Fig, 15. Variation of the convergence with bolt density for jointed Fig. 16. Variation ofthe convergence with bolt density for L = 50 and
samples (L = 100 ram). 100mm.
 I N D R A R A T N A and KAISER: G R O U T E D ROCK BOLTS 277

fl = 0.3 and field stress (#o = 14 MPa), a convergence
reduction of approx. 60% can be achieved by long bolts.
However, if the short bolts are installed at the same
density and field stress, only about 35% convergence
reduction can be expected. The bolts are completely
embedded within the plastic zone (R* > a + L) for this
case and Category III prevails. At lower bolt densities
(fl < 0.15) the effectiveness of the short bolts is even less,
as indicated by the flat slope of the initial portion of the
uppermost solid line.
It is also shown in Fig, 16 that excessively high bolt
densities (fl > 0.5) would be required for short bolts in
order to approach tunnel wall displacements close to the
elastic response. These densities would have to be almost
double the magnitudes of fl required for the same
convergence reduction by the longer bolts. Magnitudes
of fl > 0.5 are both impractical and uneconomical. It
follows that at high densities, increasing the bolt length
sented by a dilation coefficient (:t) of 1.5, which was
assumed to be typical for highly overstressed rock.
Figure 17a illustrates a typical transverse section at
Station B of the northern tunnel [17]. The initial support
system consisted primarily of 9-m long grouted bolts
(24mm dia) installed at a spacing of I x 1.05m. A
friction factor (2) in the order of 0.35--0.4 can be
regarded as typical of smooth grouted rebars installed in
heavily fractured rock. Shotcrete and steel sets were also
placed and longitudinal slots were provided to permit
large radial convergence. Supplemental reinforcement
with 9- and 13.5-m long bolts was employed when
unacceptable convergences continued to occur, resulting
--Rock Bolts Installed Initially
---Rock Bolts Installed Later
i / 1 . 3 . 5 ~ . ~ , m Rock Bolts
a ~j \ ~
!
,
!
, ,
,

may be more effective than further increasing the bolt \ ~l~ ',|! I I ' r ' l . , '
I "
density. In cases where fl exceeds 0.3, effective conver- ". ", , , '',,,\,.,\'. ,V, I'/,,,,'/,
\ ' , ' \ ' ,'\~ ',/, '1;/,'1, , ' /,I,,,'
"./'. ," ,
gence reductions can only be attained by increasing the ~ %~% \ ~ l i ~ It I l l l l l l I s ii I Ii/ l"
~s " ~"~'~ ,x ~%
%,x ~ ~ ii t ' *,s I I II,,,,
I d el II • It I/I/ t • • II •
bolt lengths. Based on the results of this study, it may "" •~" l ,, nit I ,111 * • • • . ~
be concluded that L/a ratios less than 0.8 may not be . .. . . . ~ ,:,, ,,-,', s,,,,,,.,,,,,:., . ." .
recommended for efficient convergence control, in order
to prevent excessive bolt densities.
The influence of bolt length on tunnel convergence
decreases significantly, if the plastic zone propagates
much beyond the reinforced zone (i.e. R* >>a + L). For
example at fl = 0.145 and a,, = 14MPa, the convergence
reductions associated with the long (L/a = 0.8) and the
short (L/a = 0.4) bolts are 20.4 and 17.6% respectively.
"i{ ,,--5.1rr,
In such situations, increasing the bolt density rather than 9.0 m Rock Bolts 6.0 m Rock Bolts
the length would be more effective.

ANALYSIS OF ENASAN TUNNEI.,.--A CASE HISTORY

b) I00 -

The application of the elasto-plastic analytical solu- 90-

tion to the Enasan tunnel project in Japan [17] will be

1/ .......... ? .....
BO-

demonstrated here. In this project, two parallel highway '- 70-

tunnels were constructed through Mount Enasan in the

vicinity of the active Andrea fault of the central AIps in ~J

the Japanese island of Honshu. These tunnels are 8.6 km l~ ,o-

long and the centre lines are 60 m apart. The tunnel ~ 30-
sections (North Enasan Highway) considered in this 20-
study have an average radius of 5.1 m and are located at 10°
a mean overburden depth of 450 m.
The Enasan tunnel was constructed in three sequential
0o
"--"•I I ",
", [ legend
| * Ix T Ak PArT(II~
excavation stages (heading, bench and invert) by the ~ O.4-
New Austrian Tunnelling Method. It was driven
I ", ~ "
through heavily folded and fractured granite character- ~ O.$-
ized by the following average material properties: Q.

<p=35 ~, c = 0 . 4 9 M P a , E/a c=200, v = 0 . 4 and ~ 0,2-

~, = 25 kN/m 3 [16]. The friction angle (~) has been
determined by triaxiai testing of relatively small samples. 3
~ 0.1-
Consequently, for the global behaviour of the heavily
fractured rock, it may be slightly overestimated. Since 0 . 0 - ~
0 3 II S 12 IS 16 21 24 17 $0
the peak and ultimate strength parameters were found to ROLT L(NGTH, L
be of nearly the same magnitudes, the post-peak be- Fig. 17. (a) Pattern of grouted bolts at Enasan Tunnel (Station B):
haviour could be modelled by a perfectly plastic response and (b) calculated relation between bolt length, bolt density and
(s = I). The dilation properties of the rock were repre- effectiveness.
278 I N D R A R A T N A and KAISER:
in a mean circumferential bolt spacing as small as
0.26 m. In fact, this corresponds to an increase in bolt
density from fl =0.13 to fl =0.52. Deformation of the
tunnel roof section was continuously monitored.
Conrergence of the tunnel roof
An unsupported tunnel section excavated in this heav-
ily fractured rock mass would theoretically create a
plastic zone of 12.4 m in radius, with a wall convergence
in excess of 2 m (i.e total collapse). If yielding could be
completely prevented, a convergence of 0.35 m would be
expected which is in close agreement with the elastic
convergence of 0.37 m estimated by Barlow [18]. Both
elasto-plastic and elastic solutions indicate the necessity
for intensive support to control these unacceptable large
displacements.
For the initial bolt pattern (fl =0.13, L = 9m), a
maximum estimated tunnel roof convergence of 1.07 m
( R * = 10.9m) is predicted by the analytical solution.
The ultimate measured closure at the roof after supple-
mental bolting (increase in fl from 0.13 to 0.52) at a
much later stage was 0.92 m. In comparison with the
radial displacement predicted for the initial bolt pattern,
the subsequent reduction attained due to supplemental
bolting does not seem to be very considerable. However,
a much greater convergence reduction could have been
achieved if these supplemental bolts were installed imme-
diately. Barlow [18] has in fact highlighted the same
finding. This was to be expected, since bolts installed in
an already developed large plastic zone have much less
effect than if they had been installed before or during the
propagation of the yielded zone.
Station A of the North Enasan highway is separated
by 35 m from Station B. The r o o f o f t h e tunnel at Station
A was reinforced primarily with alternating 6- and 9-m
long bolts with a bolt density parameter of 0.27. The
invert was reinforced by the same bolt pattern as in
Station B (Fig. 17a). A maximum closure of 0,71 m was
measured at the roof of Station A. The predicted roof
displacements for a tunnel with 9- or 6-m long bolts
only 0.48m (F* = 9 . 3 3 m ) and 0.65m (R* = 9.89 m),
respectively, for the given bolt density (fl = 0.27). These
magnitudes slightly underestimate the measured conver-
gence. This discrepancy may be attributed to the varia-
tion in material properties between Stations A and B,
which can be expected in a heavily-folded and fractured
rock mass. Considering these factors, the tunnel conver-
gences predicted by the analytical solution are indeed
realistic. Furthermore, it shows that convergence could
have been reduced effectively by increasing the bolt
density near the tunnel face.
Bolt effectit'eness
Optimum effectiveness of a bolt system is achieved
when the minimum tunnel convergence within economic
and practical limitations is reached. In reality, the total
convergence of a yielding, reinforced tunnel wall (u*)
must be less than that of the unsupported opening (u~)
but greater than the convergence of a tunnel in linear
elastic rock (u~). Considering these conditions, for a
G R O U T E D ROCK BOLTS
given stress level, the bolt effectiveness (i) can be defined
as:
i = - - u- ~ u7 oo = I - ;l*,,,~ % (5)
l l a - - lie 1 - - l l e ':ll a
where:
IIe < l l *a < I t a .
Figure 17b illustrates the calculated variation of the
bolt effectiveness as a function of the bolt length at
station B, Maintaining a constant total quantity of steel,
the corresponding variation of the bolt density, with the
bolt length is also shown in the lower diagram. A total
steel quantity of approx 90 m/m tunnel length was
initially used at the roof (solid circle). However, the final
steel quantity was greater than 315 m/m tunnel length
after supplemental bolting (open circle), which corre-
sponds to an increase of fl from 0.13 to 0.52 (at L = 9 m).
An effectiveness of nearly 100% could have been
achieved, if 9-m long bolts had been installed immedi-
ately with the same final density (dashed line). Alterna-
tively, the installation of 13.5-m long bolts at the
beginning with a lower bolt density parameter of
fl = 0.32 (solid line, lower graph), the bolt effectiveness
would have been as much as 95% instead of 58% (solid
line. upper graph). In reality, as a result of delayed
installation, a much lower effectiveness in the order of
65-70% was actually achieved. This highlights the im-
portance of installing grouted bolts as early as possible
near the tunnel face. Barlow and Kaiser [19] came to the
same conclusion based on convergence rates.
it is observed from Fig. 17b, that at a bolt length of
less than about 6 m, the bolt effectiveness (initial pattern)
drops dramatically, as a consequence of the plastic zone
propagating beyond the bolts. Nevertheless, for bolt
lengths less than 4.5 m, the effectiveness increases again
due to the corresponding dramatic increase in ft. In this
region, the bolt density fl dominates over the effect of the
bolt length, but the corresponding bolt densities are
unrealistically high.
COMPARISON WITH EMPIRICAL DESIGN METHODS
The NGI rock mass classification proposed by Barton
et al. [20] has introduced a support design guide based
on the rock mass quality (Q). However, for many
ground categories, particularly in poor, yielding rock it
does not generally recommend the installation of unten-
sioned grouted bolts. Therefore, it is not meaningful to
compare the proposed analytical approach with the NGI
method. However, the geomechanics classification or
rock mass rating (RMR) system [21] is applicable to fully
grouted bolts in all types of rock. The design tables and
recommendations proposed by Bieniawski [21] are in-
tended for tunnel openings in the order of I0 m width,
excavated by the drill and blast method at depths of less
than 1000 m and reinforced by 20 mm dia grouted bolts.
Supplemental support by shotcrete, wire mesh and steel
sets are also suggested for poorer ground.
 INDRARATNA and KAISER:
The recommended bolt lengths (L) and grid spacings
(St x ST) for the different rock classes are tabulated in
the first three columns of Table I. The ratio/3/~, for these
rock classes can be deduced from this information and
is tabulated in the fourth column. The magnitude of 2
may be estimated from the effective bond angle of the
bolt/grout interface to determine/3. The corresponding
bolt density parameters for an assumed ,;. = 0.5 are given
in the last column of Table 1. Several interesting aspects
evolve from this table. The bolt densities (/3) recom-
mended for poor to very-poor rock are relatively insen-
sitive to rock quality changes and the advocated range
of/3 for some rock classes (RMR less than 40) is very
wide.
Furthermore, the results from Enasan indicate that
the magnitude of the recommended bolt densities seems
to be too low for the poorest ground (RMR < 20). The
fact that only a change in bolt length is recommended to
control the weakest rock does not agree with the findings
from this study and practical experience [22]. For in-
stance, the bolt density parameter (fl) more than doubles
as the spacing is decreased from 1.5 to I m. Hence, a
further reduction of the bolt spacing for the weakest
rock class would provide a sufficiently high magnitude
for 13 to curtail displacements more effectively than
by increasing the bolt lengths. This is supported by
Laubscher and Taylor [23] who proposed a bolt spacing
less than 0.75 m for poor ground at RMR < 30. This
bolt spacing corresponds to a ]/-value of about 0.28 for
2 = 0.5, and seems to be in good agreement with the
densities proposed earlier for effective convergence re-
duction. The influence of friction (bolt/grout interaction)
as a very important design parameter is also ignored in
the empirical method. On the basis of these observations,
we conclude that the RMR system may not provide a
sufficiently sensitive guide to properly designed grouted
bolts in weak, yielding rock. For classes of poor rock
(RMR < 40), a rational design method for grouted bolts
should be based on the proposed analytical approach,
which provides a sound basis for effective convergence
control.
Observations from the Kielder experimental tunnel
The behaviour of different support systems has been
studied extensively at the Kielder experimental tunnel
[7, 24]. The excavation of this tunnel was specifically
selected to be in a weak mudstone layer (8 m thick). The
rock movements were measured near the 3.3 m dia
opening and the influence of fully grouted resin bolts on
ground displacements was investigated.
Table I. Recommended bolt densities according to Geomechanics
Classification (RMR)
Rock class L SL and ST /~
RMR Condition (m) (m) /~ ;. (at 2 =0.5)
Very
81-100 good Generally no support required 0.00
61-80 Good 2-3 2.5 0.05 0.10
41-60 Fair 3-4 1.5-2.0 0.08-0.14 0.04--0.07
21-40 Poor 4-5 1.0-1.5 0.14-O.31 0.07~).16
< 20 Very poor 5-6 1.0-1.5 0.14-0.31 0.07-0.16
RMMS 27 4 - - D
GROUTED ROCK BOLTS 279
The Four Fathom mudstone was extremely fissured
with multidirectional fractures and abundant mica part-
ings. It was characterized by a rock quality designation
(RQD) of less than 8% indicating its highly fissured
nature. Houghton [25] describes this mudstone as a
material which when exposed is prone to rapid deterio-
ration. Based on the geomeehanics classification (RMR)
system, support recommendations for fully grouted bolts
have been compiled by Hoek and Brown [14] for the
different rocks surrounding the experimental tunnel.
Table 2 summarizes the calculated/3/2 ratios, consider-
ing the effects of the relatively small size of the experi-
mental tunnel. Accordingly, the recommended bolt
pattern for mudstone indicates a/3/2 ratio of 0.05-0.1 for
a bolt length of 3-4 m, which provides a bolt density
parameter of 0.025-0.05 for an assumed friction factor
of 0.5. In comparison with competent limestone and
sandstone, this recommended range of/3 by the RMR
system does not seem to be sufficient for optimum
convergence control in the much weaker mudstone.
However, these RMR recommendations may still be
acceptable, if the role of bolting is purely based on
stability considerations rather than on convergence
control.
The bolt pattern recommended by the Geomechanics
Classification (RMR) was not installed during the con-
struction of the experimental tunnel. The actually in-
stalled bolt pattern consisted of 1.8-m long fully-grouted
bolts (25mm dia) at a spacing of 0.9 x 0.9m. This
provides a/~/2-ratio of 0.16 or a bolt density parameter
(/~) of 0.08 for an assumed 2 of 0.5. Application of the
proposed method of analysis reveals that/3 must be at
least 0.15 to obtain effective convergence reductions for
bolt lengths equal to the tunnel radius. Field measure-
ments have indicated that for an unsupported tunnel
section, radial displacements in excess of 20 mm at 0.3 m
above the roof have occurred. As expected, the pattern
of grouted bolts installed in the experimental tunnel has,
on average, achieved convergence reductions less than
20%. A greater effectiveness in convergence control
could have been achieved if a greater bolt density had
been employed with the same bolt length. For instance,
if these 1.8-m long grouted bolts were installed at a
spacing of 0.6 x 0.6 m (/3/2 = 0.36), convergence reduc-
tions close to 40% would be predicted by the analytical
solution. Therefore, it may be concluded that the portion
of the Kielder experimental tunnel driven through mud-
stone was not sufficiently reinforced with fully grouted
bolts for optimum convergence control. However, this
does not imply that the tunnel was inadequately sup-
ported with respect to stability considerations.
Table 2. Recommended bolt densities for Kielder experimental tunnel
based on the RMR classification system
L Sk and ST P
Rock type (m) (m) p/2 (at ,;.= 0.5)
Great limestone 2 1.5 0.046 0.023
Four Fathom limestone 2 1.5 0.046 0.023
Four Fathom mudstone 3-4 1.5 0.05--0.10 0.025-0.05
Natrass Gill sandstone 3 1.5-2.0 0.03--0.05 0.015-0.025
280 [NDRARATNA and KAISER:
SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS
The application of the convergence control design
method in practice is summarized in the flowchart
presented in Fig. 18, and the relevant computational
steps are as follows:
Step I. For the unsupported opening (fl = 0, L = 0),
the plastic zone radius (R) and hence, the
associated radial displacement of the tunnel
wall (ua) are determined from the general
elasto-plastic equations, for the given ma-
terial properties and in situ field stress.
Step 2. The equivalent plastic zone (R*) and the
displacement of the reinforced tunnel wall
(u~*) are determined for an initial combina-
tion of the bolt length (L) and density (/~),
using the equations of the appropriate yield
category (see Appendix) in conjunction with
equation (4b).
Step 3. The normalized convergence ratio (u*/u,) is
computed and compared with the allowable
(design) convergence ratio.
Step 4. If this value of u*/u, satisfies the required
convergence reduction, then the intial com-
bination of bolt length and density is appro-
priate. The required bolt spacing (SL and ST)
can then be calculated from equation (3).
Step 5. The convergence of the reinforced tunnel
wall after the installation of this bolt con-
figuration is measured to verify the efficacy of
the design. If either the predicted conver-
gence ratio (u*/u~) or the observed displace-
ments do not provide the desired or
allowable convergence reduction, then the
Field
~.,Observatlons
Install Bolt
Con f~guratlon
Fig. 18. Computational steps of the analytical model.
GROUTED ROCK BOLTS
computation must be repeated from Step 2,
for a different combination of L and ft.
The proposed convergence controlled approach for
the design of fully-grouted bolts is applicable to rock
that can be described by elasto-plastic material models.
The evaluation of the extent of yielding as a function of
the bolt density and length, provides a rational approach
for the determination of the tunnel wall convergence in
a reinforced tunnel. The influence of the bolt density
parameter (/~) on the apparent strength of the rock mass
profoundly reflects the importance of the bolt spacing
and bolt/grout interaction in design. The role of fully-
grouted bolts is best assessed on the basis of convergence
control. This assists the designer in selecting the opti-
mum reinforcement configuration. The normalized con-
vergence ratio (u*/zq) and the resulting bolt effectiveness
(i) are the fundamental design aids introduced in this
paper.
The normalized convergence ratio is most appropriate
as a design parameter because it is relatively insensitive to
moderate changes of rock mass properties. The use of bolt
effectiveness (i) is particularly advantageous in design,
where the bolt density and bolt length can be selected
simultaneously, to achieve an economic quantity of steel.
Laboratory simulations, the analysis of the Enasan
tunnel and the observations from the Kielder tunnel all
verify the applicability of the proposed analytical
method for the prediction of the convergence of rein-
forced tunnels in relatively poor ground conditions
(RMR <40). In such weak rock the Geomechanics
Classification System (RMR) does not provide a suffi-
ciently sensitive guide for bolt design. The results pre-
sented here indicate that in weak fractured rock,
installation of rough rebars with a dense bolt pattern
(//~>0.15) and adequate bolt lengths (L/a>>.O.8) are
recommended for effective curtailment of displacements.
These supports should be provided near the tunnel face
soon after excavation. The study of the Enasan tunnel
Stress I demonstrates that the installation of an optimum num-
ber of grouted bolts immediately behind the tunnel face
contributes much more to control wall displacements
than the provision of supplemental bolting at a latter
stage. It is indeed the initial bolt configuration that is
predominant in controlling the extent of yielding around
an opening and hence, the final wall convergence.
The mathematical treatment of the elasto-plastic anal-
ysis is based on several simplifying assumptions, which
result in an axisymmetric yield zone around a deep
circular opening. The adequacy of the proposed design
method may be questionable if the geological conditions
and the tunnel geometry become very complex. Further-
more, since the behaviour of the rock mass is represented
I by an elastic, brittle-plastic material model with a linear
Mohr-Coulomb failure criterion, materials with a pro-
nounced non-linear and strain-dependent post peak
stress-strain behaviour are not modelled accurately.
Under such circumstances, alternative solutions may
have to be considered in conjunction with the proposed
analytical approach in order to reach reliable solution.
 INDRARATNA and KAISER: GROUTED ROCK BOLTS 281

Acknowledgements--This research work was conducted while both 19. Barlow J. P. and Kaiser P. K. Interpretation of tunnel convergence
authors were at the Department of Civil Engineering, University of measurements. 6th Congr. Int. Soc. Rock Mech., Montreal, Vol. 2,
Alberta, Edmonton, Canada, and was financially supported by a grant pp. 787-792 (1987).
from the National Sciences and Engineering Research Council of 20. Barton N., Lien R. and Lunde J. Estimation of support require-
Canada. The authors also express their sincere gratitude to the ments for underground excavations. Proc. of 16th Syrup. on Rock
technical support staff at the University of Alberta for assistance Mech., Minneapolis, pp. 99-113 (1975).
during the extensive laboratory test program. 21. Bieniawski Z. T. Rock mass classification in rock engineering.
Proc. of Syrup. on Exploration for Rock Engineering, Johannes-
burg, Vol. !, pp. 97-106 (1976).
Accepted for publication 30 October 1989. 22. Golscr J. Personal communication (1987).
23. Laubscher D. H. and Taylor H. W. The importance of Geome-
chanics Classification of jointed rock masses in mining operations.
REFERENCES Proc. Syrup. on E.rploration for Rock Engineering, Johannesburg,
I. Van Sint Jan M. L. Ground and lining behaviour of shallow pp. 119-128 (1976).
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Ph.D. Thesis, University of Illinois, Urbana (1982). support systems in Four Fathom mudstone Proc. of Tunnelling "76,
2. Kaiser P. K., Guenot A. and Morgenstern N. R. Deformation of pp. 329-340. Institution of Mining and Metallurgy, London
small tunnels--Part IV. Behaviour during failure. Int. J. Rock (1976).
Mech. Min. Sci. & Geomech. Abstr. 22, 141-152 (1985). 25. Houghton D. A. The role of rock quality indices in the assessment
3. Indraratna B. and Kaiser P. K. Analytical model for the design of of rock masses. Proc. of Syrap. on Exploration for Rock Engineer-
grouted rock bolts. Int. J. Numer. Analyt. Methods Geomech. ing, Johannesburg, pp. 129-135 (1976).
( 1989).
4. lndraratna B. and Kaiser P. K. Stabilization of underground
openings in jointed rock by fully grouted bolts. 15th Can. Syrup. APPENDIX
in Rock Mech., Toronto, pp. 195-206 (1988).
5. Sun Xueyi. Grouted rock bolts used in underground engineering Solutions of the Equivalent Plastic Zone Radius
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-- = {i + (Lfa)]
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Felsmech. Ingenie,~rgeol. 5, 117-136; 197-216 (1967). where
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New Orleans. Vol. I. Chap. 22, pp. 329-348 ([987). '-st-,+ i7 t,,,<
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M.Sc. Thesis, Department of Civil Engineering, University of
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A~=(I+~)
(°-'/
~ (a+L)/ol'~-'{(o/a~"-'-l}.