Modeling Deformation Processes in Self-Stressed Rock Specimens

The authors use mathematical model of structurally inhomogeneous rocks to describe the property of rocks to accumulate and release potential elastic energy. The finite element algorithm and bundled software are developed to solve plane boundary-value geomechanical problems. The article presents calculations of deformation of self-stress rock specimens. It is shown that the deformation curve depends both on the elastoplastic properties of the specimens and on their natural self-balanced stresses. Depending on sign, the stresses can either increase or decrease the limit load under which the specimens fail.