Investigate the mechanical property of weak interlayers based on micro-RME and AGBM

Weak interlayers are difficult to be measured using the traditional macroscale Rock Mechanics Experiment, which requires intact and standard rock samples. Because the zones of weak interlayers are usually narrow and variable, and the geomaterials in weak interlayers are fragmented and muddy. This work combines the microscale Rock Mechanics Experiment (micro-RME) and Accurate Grain-Based Models (AGBM), in order to investigate the mechanical property of the weak interlayer found during the construction of Sichuan-Tibet Railway. The composition and mechanical property of rock-forming minerals in weak interlayers were tested using micro-RME, TESCAN Integrated Mineral Analyzer and nanoindentation testing. Based on the results of micro-RME, the AGBM was established to achieve the macroscale property of weak interlayers. The influence of weak interlayers on the deformation of surrounding rocks was discussed numerically.