3D geomechanical modeling as the basis for solving complex problems of potassium salt development safety
Introduction. Rock mass and surface stress-strain state forecasting is considered a vital problem of mineral development. The problem is connected with displacement process negative impact on the state of the undermined surface and subsurface facilities as well as with water conducting crack formation in the waterproof strata (WPS). Research aim. Rock displacement forecasting based on the 3D geomechanical model. Research methodology. Upper Kama (Verkhnekamskoe) potassium salt deposit (VKMKS) stress-strain state calculations are based on the rheological model of saliferous rock deformation and failure. Analytical description of the model is based on viscoplasticity theory, and its numerical simulation is implemented by finite element method in ANSYS program. The estimate of crack propagation conditions in WPS is realized on the basis of both horizontal tensile deformations distribution (deformational criterion) andDrucker-Prager criterion distribution (force criterion). Results. Presented model was used to solve particular mine and technical problems. The estimate of WPS disturbed state in the area of well no. 69 (SKRU-1) is made. The analysis of deformational processes in the area of interest allowed identifying five potential disturbed zones of WPS. Conclusions. Maximum crack propagation criterion is found in the area of local subsidence zone (block 125). Therefore, water conducting crack formation in WPS is most likely to be in this area.