What Does
Minimum In-Situ Stress Mean?
Minimum in-situ stress is the threshold at which localized stress within a rock mass formation will cause a fracture to open. Trenchless construction planners assess measurements like this to gain an understanding of geological conditions that might affect operations.
Trenchlesspedia Explains Minimum In-Situ Stress
Pre-excavation comprehension of potential geotechnical challenges helps in the design and preparation for a trenchless project. An opening fracture can create instability that may put the project at risk. That's why anticipating possible disruptions in rock formations is critical. Measurements of in-situ stress are designed to anticipate potential failures or other challenges that trenchless operators may face.
Minimum in-situ stress is related to fracture closure pressure. An increase above the stress threshold will open a fracture, while a decrease may close it.