Mechanical and Deformation Behaviors of Wyoming Shales
Publication: Geo-Congress 2024
ABSTRACT
This paper presents a laboratory investigation to understand the mechanical and deformation behaviors of Wyoming shales. Seven shale samples were collected from different locations in Wyoming, including different formations, geologic ages, and depths. Thirty-three specimens from seven samples were prepared for a series of uniaxial and triaxial compression tests. In addition, porosity and specific gravity tests were conducted on these cylindrical specimens. Using historical and recently completed test data, regression analyses were performed to establish prediction equations to relate uniaxial compressive strength (UCS), peak compressive strength Young’s modulus (E), and shear strength parameters to physical properties. Some of the conclusions are: (1) UCS decreases with the increase in moisture content and porosity, (2) E increases with the decrease in moisture content and porosity, and (3) cohesion decreases with the increase in porosity. These recommendations are developed to facilitate the design and construction of transportation infrastructure in Wyoming.
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Published online: Feb 22, 2024
ASCE Technical Topics:
- Compression tests
- Compressive strength
- Continuum mechanics
- Data analysis
- Deformation (mechanics)
- Engineering fundamentals
- Engineering mechanics
- Geology
- Geotechnical engineering
- Laboratory tests
- Material mechanics
- Material properties
- Materials engineering
- Mechanical properties
- Methodology (by type)
- Porosity
- Research methods (by type)
- Rocks
- Shale
- Solid mechanics
- Strength of materials
- Structural mechanics
- Tests (by type)
- Triaxial tests
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