Large-Scale Rock Joint

Determine Stable Strength Threshold

First quantitative prediction of stable threshold sizes for natural rock joints, replacing one-size-fits-all empirical recommendations.

Yong, Rui · Wang, Changshuo · Yang, Shengqi · Tang, Zhicheng · Du, Shigui · Barton, Nicholas R.

International Journal of Rock Mechanics and Minings Sciences 2026

Specifications

Prediction error

{'zh': '-8.6% ~ +10.2%', 'en': '-8.6% ~ +10.2%'} %

Granite joint profile length

{'zh': '500–700', 'en': '500–700'} cm

Slate joint profile length

{'zh': '310', 'en': '310'} cm

Advantages

Predicts threshold sizes

An empirical model estimates the shear strength threshold size from lab-scale properties, replacing one-size-fits-all recommendations.

Validated error range

Independent validation showed prediction errors ranging from −8.6% to +10.2%, providing quantitative reliability.

Includes nomogram

An engineering nomogram is provided for rapid estimation of threshold sizes without complex computations.

Applications

• Rock Engineering Design：Determine joint specimen size and extrapolate results to avoid biased design parameters.
• Joint Stability Assessment：Rapidly estimate threshold size to judge lab representativeness for field joint strength.