Ultimate Bearing Capacity of Shallow Foundations on Jointed Rock Mass

Abstract

The strength behaviour of jointed rocks is governed by intact rock properties as well as the characteristics of the joints intensity of the rock mass. It has been observed that in addition to the above mentioned factors, the type of structure is also very important in governing the mobilized strength of a rock mass. An experimental study was conducted wherein a rigid footing placed on the top surface of the jointed rock mass was loaded up to the failure. The effect of the joint orientation and interlocking of rock mass on the ultimate bearing capacity of the rock mass has been studied. A methodology has been suggested to determine the ultimate bearing capacity of shallow foundation placed on anisotropic rock mass in the field. © 2012 Indian Geotechnical Society.