Advances in Mechanical Behavior of Heterogeneous Rock Mass: Performance Characterization, Fracture, and Seepage

Heterogeneous rock masses, defined by complex distributions of discontinuities, pronounced material anisotropy, and multi-scale structural features, constitute the foundational strata for a wide array of engineering projects, such as deep underground excavations, geothermal energy extraction, unconventional hydrocarbon recovery, and geological disposal of nuclear waste. The mechanical behavior of these rock masses is governed by intricate interactions among structural planes, variations in material properties, and coupled hydro-mechanical processes. This complexity renders the reliable prediction of their performance exceptionally challenging. Recent advances in multi-scale experimental techniques, numerical simulations, theoretical modeling, and machine learning have significantly enhanced our understanding of the multi-scale mechanical and seepage responses of heterogeneous rocks. Nevertheless, key questions remain, and among them: how to accurately characterize multi-scale heterogeneity and its mechanical attributes, how fracture networks evolve under multifaceted stress-seepage conditions, and the fundamental mechanisms underpinning water-rock interactions within multi-scale defect structures. This Research Topic aims to provide a platform for cutting-edge studies that address these challenges and foster novel insights into the mechanical behavior of heterogeneous rock masses.The primary objective of this Research Topic is to systematically highlight the latest advances in understanding the mechanical behavior of heterogeneous rock masses, with particular emphasis on performance characterization, fracture mechanics, and seepage phenomena. By bridging the gap between experimental outcomes, theoretical models, and field-scale implementations, this Research Topic seeks to unravel how heterogeneity across micro- to macro-scales, spanning mineralogical variations to pronounced structural discontinuities, influences deformation, damage accumulation, mechanical property degradation, and fluid transport under static, dynamic, and complex multi-field loading scenarios.Additionally, it encourages the growth of advanced characterization methods, simulation tools, and theoretical models capable of efficiently and accurately capturing rock mass structure and behavioral evolution. A vital secondary aim is the investigation of defect evolution and its role in regulating seepage properties. By promoting interdisciplinary dialogue, this initiative aspires to equip engineers and geoscientists with strong theoretical foundations for boosting the stability of underground facilities, optimizing resource extraction efficiency, and lowering the environmental risks associated with subsurface engineering activities.To gather further insights into the complexities and challenges of heterogeneous rock mass mechanics, this Research Topic welcomes original research articles, reviews, and case studies related to, but not limited to, the following themes:• Multi-scale and multi-physics testing of anisotropic and heterogeneous rocks• Digital rock physics and microstructure-property relationships• Advanced imaging techniques of heterogeneous rocks• Scale effects and size-dependent fracture properties• Stability analysis of underground excavations in heterogeneous formations• Fracturing mechanisms of heterogeneous media under static/dynamic, coupled stress-seepage loads• Permeability evolution of rock mass• Hydro-mechanical coupling behavior• Hydraulic fracturing optimization in engineering applications This Research Topic invites original research articles, comprehensive reviews, and detailed case studies. Topic editors: Jiadong Qiu, Xin Bai, Zhenghong Chen Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/77605/advances-in-mechanical-behavior-of-heterogeneous-rock-mass-performance-characterization-fracture-and-seepage