Finite Element Modeling with Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity for Visualising Rock Deformations

Abstract

Rocks serve as critical structural components and aggregates in concrete mixtures for civil infrastructure. A persistent challenge in construction has been the insufficient understanding of the quality of raw materials employed. Non-destructive testing techniques, such as ultrasonic pulse velocity, enable detailed characterization of the physical and mechanical properties of rocks. However, these methods are not consistently applied or accurately interpreted to evaluate rock quality. This study proposes an innovative methodology that integrates ultrasonic pulse velocity to estimate the dynamic modulus of elasticity and assess rock deformation using a finite element model. Ten rock samples, comprising volcanic and crushed rocks, were subjected to analytical techniques. Key parameters, including density, uniaxial compressive strength, and ultrasonic pulse velocity, were measured. Furthermore, advanced methods such as high-resolution scanning electron microscopy and X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy were employed to investigate surface morphology and elemental chemical composition. The findings indicate that crushed materials exhibit superior physical and mechanical properties compared to volcanic stones. The proposed model enables the classification of quarries based on ultrasonic pulse velocity as a physical property and corresponding mechanical properties. The data collected were utilized to calibrate the model for determining the deformability of the rock samples. Numerical analysis revealed strong correlations between ultrasonic pulse velocity and deformation, with a correlation coefficient (R²) of 0.87 for horizontal deformation and 0.97 for vertical deformation. These results demonstrate that the novel methodology presented in this study provides valuable insights for prioritizing the use of regional quarry materials, thereby supporting the structural integrity of construction projects.