Recent advancements in the understanding of basalt, a crucial material in various engineering fields, have emerged from a study published in ‘工程科学学报’, which translates to ‘Journal of Engineering Science’. The research, led by LANG Ying-xian, explores the intricate relationship between the microstructural features of basalt and its mechanical properties, particularly focusing on how pre-existing defects like pores influence its behavior under stress.
Basalt is widely used in underground engineering, mining, and foundation work due to its durability and strength. However, the presence of discontinuities and randomly distributed pores can significantly compromise its performance. This study highlights the importance of investigating these factors, especially as the energy sector increasingly relies on robust materials for construction and resource extraction.
The researchers employed an innovative three-dimensional numerical method, leveraging X-ray computerized tomography (CT) technology to visualize the internal structures of basalt samples. This approach allows for a more accurate simulation of how porous rocks fail under tension. “Initial cracks usually occur in pores, and these cracks propagate under load, ultimately leading to macroscopic tensile fractures,” explained LANG Ying-xian. This insight is pivotal for engineers who design structures that must withstand significant stresses, particularly in challenging environments.
The findings indicate that porosity and pore distribution play critical roles in determining the failure mechanism of basalt. As porosity increases, both the number of acoustic emission events and the cumulative acoustic energy decrease, suggesting that more porous samples exhibit weaker tensile strength. This understanding could lead to improved material selection and engineering practices in projects where basalt is extensively used.
Moreover, the research underscores the challenges of conducting direct tensile tests on rock samples, which are often complicated by sample processing difficulties and the inherent opacity of rocks. By utilizing advanced numerical methods, this study paves the way for more repeatable and reliable assessments of rock materials, ultimately benefiting sectors such as energy and construction.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, this research could significantly influence future developments in material science and engineering practices. The ability to predict how basalt will behave under various conditions can lead to safer and more efficient designs in energy infrastructure, from wind turbine foundations to geothermal energy systems.
For more information on this groundbreaking research, you may refer to the work of LANG Ying-xian at lead_author_affiliation. The study not only contributes to the academic discourse but also has practical implications for the energy sector, where understanding material properties can lead to enhanced safety and performance in engineering applications.
