Computer methods are in the forefront of the procedures for analysis and design for geotechnical problems. Constitutive models that characterize the behavior of geologic materials and interfaces / joints play a vital role in the solutions obtained by using ...

Stress-strain curves for brittle rocks show three characteristic stress levels: crack initiation, long-term strength, and peak strength. Damage-controlled testing at low confining stresses has shown that the long-term and peak strengths are sensitive to the ...