Research Projects

The majority of rocks are ultimately failed in shear modes except few in tensile mode. Both brittle and ductile shear zones are localized intensely strained zones formed due to shearing of rocks. In geomechanics, the shearing advances due to strength mobilization. Thus, shear zones can be considered as an excellent naturally conducted experimental sites for exploring imposed stresses and associated conditions for strength mobilization criteria during formation and evolution of shear zones. However, the pre-shear strata may or may not have inhomogeneity and anisotropy or both features evolved during shearing of rocks. These may or may not interfere the strength mobilization, during evolution of shear zones. These inhomogeneity and anisotropies may provide background for new concepts and criteria related to mechanical facets of shear zone’s evolution. In this research of integrated geological-geomechanical nature, the PI will address strength mobilization under least attempted cyclic and constant stresses along with incremental stress condition for formation of shear zones. For the above, the proposed research will searches the answers of three questions (1) Are structural and mechanical anisotropies and petro-inhomogeneity participated in strength mobilization? (2) Is fluid influence the mechanical anisotropy during shearing of rock strata? (3) Are the fatigue and creep participating in evolution of shear zones? On the basis of answers of theses questions, the PI will develop criteria concern to constrains of inhomogeneity and anisotropy on strength mobilization under variable sets of temperatures, pressures and fluids for formation and evolution of shear zones. These questions are to be resolved on the basis of comparison between structures evolved during experimental shearing of equivalent and or analogous synthetic materials and structural features inherited in rocks of shear zones. The least studied varieties of shear zones of various scales are traversing the rocks of Mahakoshal Group, and Chottanagpur Granite-Gneiss Complex (CGGC) which is well exposed at different localities in the Son Valley, central India. Thus, this study has selected Son Valley for the purpose. With due need, a fabricated experimental shearing system, a drone system, an ultrasonic concrete tester, Schmidt’s rebound hammer are to be purchased for the purpose. The outcomes of the proposed study are expected to open new vistas concern to influence of inhomogeneity, anisotropies, and fluids in mobilization of strength during formation and evolution of shear zones. Beside these, the outcomes of research work will also indirectly useful for extraction of hydrocarbons, groundwater and geothermal energy, disposal of hazardous waste, creation of underground spaces, etc. It is hoped that this proposed research having core scientific dimensions and wide applicability will get likely attention among research and academic communities at national and international levels.