Abstract
It is well known that rock bolts are extremely effective for reinforcement of jointed rock masses. However, it is not easy to simulate the rock bolt effects properly by using numerical analysis methods. This is mainly due to the difficulty of modeling jointed rock masses. In modeling the rock masses, there are two approaches available; one is the continuum approach and the other is the discontinuum approach. As far as design works are concerned, the continuum approach is preferable. In this paper, we first pointed out a problem in modeling jointed rock masses, particularly in the continuum mechanics approach. Second, we proposed a basic concept for modeling jointed rock masses reinforced by rock bolts by considering laboratory test results.
