THE FRACTAL CHARACTERISTICS OF JOINTED ROCK MASS AND ITS ENGINEERING GEOLOGY SIGNIFICANCE

Fractal theory is introduced to analysis of joint net distribution and joint roughness curve. It is found that joint distribution in space and roughness curves show good self-similarity. Fractal dimension is a geometric parameter reflecting rock mass strength, rock mass damage degree, rock mass quality, and joint roughness. It can be also used in evaluation fo rock mass stability, analysis of fracture system activity, and discrimination of weathering-unloading zone.