Glossary
Rock mechanics - Characterization of rock masses

Diaclase; joint

Discontinuity within the rock, without relative displacement of the two separate blocks, and intersecting, generally perpendicularly, the stratification planes of sedimentary rocks.

Discontinuity; joint

A discontinuity is a surface marking a break in the continuity of the rock matrix.

Scale effect

A property is said to be subject to a scaling effect when its measured value varies according to the dimensions of the sample tested.

Sponge; wall

Each of the two edges (or lips) of a crack (in this context).

Faille; fault

Singular discontinuity corresponding to a fracture plane resulting from brittle behavior, marked by a relative displacement of the two parts it separates.

Seal; gasket

Discontinuity surface that does not mark an abnormal contact and is characterized by little or no displacement.

Rock mass