Elastic properties of the Singö zone from a discrete approach

Abstract: A rock mass is characterised by the properties of the intact rock and the fractures. Considering the impact of both constituents is of vital importance for assessing the behaviour of the rock mass. In particular in the case of complex or heterogeneous rock mass compositions. A discrete approach, by using the Discrete Fracture Network (DFN) methodology, enables for the consideration of these aspects.This master’s thesis concerns the evaluation of elastic properties of the Singö deformation zone. A discrete approach has been applied by three-dimensional discrete fracture network modelling, using previously evaluated DFN parameters. The elastic properties have then been obtained by analytical means by using the methodology developed by Davy et al. (2018).The results show that in comparison to earlier evaluations of the elastic properties of the Singö zone, the respective Young’s moduli and Poisson’s ratios obtained by this thesis may indicate a weaker material. However, this study differs from the earlier evaluation by more extensive DFN modelling and the application of a state of stress which is more representative of the surroundings of the zone in Forsmark. The analysis indicates that theadequate model size is slightly larger than the maximum studied DFN model size. A suggested future improvement would be a re-evaluation and updating of the DFN parameters. As a concluding remark, the methodology of Davy et al. (2018) may prove successful in the future for the application to deformation zones.