Simulation of fully grouted rockbolts in underground roadways using FLAC2D

A numerical modelling approach of a mine roadway reinforced with fully encapsulated rockbolts is proposed to study the interaction between rockbolts and the rock mass. The rockbolt bond-slip relationships defined by conducting push tests of short rockbolts are implemented in the rockbolt elements used in the two-dimensional Fast Lagrangian Analysis of Continua (FLAC2D) model for precise simulation of the rockbolt behaviour. The performance of rockbolts installed in the roadway model under various conditions is discussed and compared with previous research. This paper provides a numerical modelling methodology to study the interaction between rockbolts and the rock mass subject to a variable stress state, rock mass quality, and the presence of rock fractures or joints. It was found that the bearing plates can improve the reinforcing performance of rockbolts. Copyright 2014 Published by NRC Research Press