Abstract
The method of fractal geometry allows the simulation as well as description of data of many different natural states of orientation, distribution and consistency. This affords to the engineering geologist various new possibilities of identifying rock mass and rock. We have tried to use fractal dimension (FD) for characterising roughness profiles of shear faces as well as fracture trace maps of foundation surfaces. Fractal dimension proved to be a characteristic which—difficult to determine by other methods—is a valuable aid in describing and identifying rock masses in terms of geology and geotechnics. The collection of data as well as the representation and adequate, interpretation of the results, however, call for a further improvement of methods and additional experience.
Résumé
Le concept de «géométrie fractale» permet de simuler et de décrire les données de divers états d'orientation, de distribution et de consistance. Ceci offre à l'ingénieur géologique quelques nouveaux moyens de caractériser les massifs rocheux et les roches. Et nous servant de la «dimension fractale» (FD), nous avons essayé de caractériser des profils de rugosité pour des faces de cisaillement ainsi que des cartes de traces de fractures pour des surfaces de fondation. On a constaté que la «dimension fractale», difficile à déterminer par d'autres méthodes, représente une caractéristique qui aide à décrire et identifier les massifs rocheux des points de vue géologique et géotechnique. La collection des données ainsi que la représentation et interprétation adéquate des résultats ont pourtant besoin de méthodes encore améliorées et d'expérience supplémentaire.
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Brosch, F.J., Pölsler, P. & Riedmüller, G. The use of fractal dimension in engineering geology. Bulletin of the International Association of Engineering Geology 45, 83–88 (1992). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02594907
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02594907