Rock Mechanics Laboratory
The Rock Mechanics Laboratory (UMR) is part of the Rock Modeling and Mechanics Unit (NMMR) of the Concrete Dams Department (DBB). The UMR was created in 2006, although laboratory testing of rocks began in the 1950s, prompted by LNEC's need to support the large concrete dam projects that were underway at the time. Since then, UMR has been carrying out rock and diaclastic tests for studies on dam foundations, slope stability, tunnels, and caverns.
Additional information can be found in this laboratory's flyer.
Activity areas
UMR carries out laboratory tests to characterize the main mechanical properties of rocks, diaclases and other similar materials, such as jet-grout, for which it has three presses with capacities of between 60 and 4000 kN, two pieces of equipment for carrying out diaclase sliding tests, a triaxial chamber for applying confining stresses of up to 70 MPa, equipment for applying and controlling pressure, and force and displacement reading equipment specifically adapted to the various tests.
Testing
Following procedures adapted from international standards, UMR carries out the following tests:
- Simple compression tests on rock specimens with determination of tensile strength, modulus of elasticity, and Poisson's ratio
- Triaxial compression tests on rock specimens with determination of tensile strength, modulus of elasticity, and Poisson's ratio, and strength parameters
- Diametral compression tests (Brazilian)
- Point load compression tests
- Slip tests on diaclases with determination of strength and deformability parameters
The full list of tests carried out by this unit can be consulted in the list of tests in the database (searchable).
Other services
In addition to these tests, the UMR also carries out innovative tests for research activities which, due to their specific nature, require the development of new equipment or the adaptation of existing test procedures.