Rock Mechanical Characterization of Epoxy-Based Grouted Sandstone

Studies have attempted to understand how cement grout penetrates and hydraulically seals fractured rocks. However, due to the characteristic limitations of grout, such as poor dispersion and bonding properties prompt the need for alternative grouting technologies in rock engineering. Furthermore, understanding how grout materials seal fractures and react to in-situ stress is currently insufficient. In this work, we explored the potential of epoxy-based material as a grout for fractured sandstone rocks and assessed its potential in modifying the overall rock strength. The epoxy-based cementitious material mixture was used for the pre-and post-grouting of fractured sandstones to evaluate the mechanical integrity through uniaxial compressive tests. In the results, the uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) of treated samples was altered with the grout material appearing to seal the rock fracture. The results also indicated that the grout treatment relatively increased the strength (UCS) of the grouted sandstone by (+2.4% UCS). Furthermore, imaging analyses suggest that the grout material can impact and alter the rock's microstructure and yield good material uniformity. This study provides a first leap in experimental investigations toward advancing eco-friendly reinforcement mechanisms of sealing fractured rocks and their impact on rock grouting.