Investigation of Stress Redistribution Within the Host Rock Mass During Underground Mining Operations

Abstract

The article presents the results of a systematic investigation of stress redistribution and the formation of stress concentration and relaxation zones in the rock mass surrounding underground mine workings under the influence of mining operations. The study was conducted considering the geological and geomechanical conditions of an underground mining operation, with particular emphasis on the changes in the stress–strain state of the rock mass caused by excavation. A mathematical model was developed to describe the stress–strain behavior of the rock mass, with mining depth, vertical and horizontal in-situ stresses, Young’s modulus, and Poisson’s ratio adopted as the principal input parameters. The research methodology is based on analytical calculations, geomechanical modeling, and comparative analysis of the obtained results. The proposed approach makes it possible to quantitatively evaluate the spatial redistribution of stresses and identify areas characterized by increased stress concentration and stress relaxation. The modeling results demonstrate that mining operations cause significant redistribution of the initial stress field, resulting in the formation of localized zones of increased compressive stress around the excavation boundaries. Particular attention was given to the development of tensile-stress-affected zones above the excavation roof. A zone extending approximately 20–30 m above the roof was identified, indicating a potential area of increased rock fracturing and activation of pre-existing discontinuities. The values of the relaxation coefficient were determined and justified based on the specific geological and geomechanical conditions of the mine. The proposed model also allows the regularities governing the formation and spatial development of stress concentration and relaxation zones to be assessed. The obtained results provide a scientific and practical basis for quantitatively assessing mining-induced stress redistribution and improving the geomechanical justification of underground excavation stability and support parameters