In rock mechanics, rock bolts primarily function to

In rock mechanics, rock bolts primarily function to

• A. Transfer load from the unstable exterior to the confined interior of the rock mass.
• B. Provide waterproofing to rock faces
• C. Improve permeability by creating fissures
• D. Increase the rock's chemical stability

Answer: (C)

Rock bolts stabilize a fractured rock mass by acting as anchors that hold blocks in place and transfer stresses from potentially unstable outer zones into the surrounding, more competent rock. This anchoring creates confining resistance and limits movement, wedges, or collapses, helping the rock mass behave as a single, stronger unit. The bolt is grouted to transfer load into the rock and grout, so the surrounding rock shares the load with the bolt, reducing displacements and stopping ongoing failure. Waterproofing the face, creating more fissures to improve permeability, or changing chemical stability aren’t the primary roles of rock bolts. Bolts are used to weld the rock mass together and suppress movement, not to alter its water flow or chemical properties.

Rock bolts stabilize a fractured rock mass by acting as anchors that hold blocks in place and transfer stresses from potentially unstable outer zones into the surrounding, more competent rock. This anchoring creates confining resistance and limits movement, wedges, or collapses, helping the rock mass behave as a single, stronger unit. The bolt is grouted to transfer load into the rock and grout, so the surrounding rock shares the load with the bolt, reducing displacements and stopping ongoing failure.

Waterproofing the face, creating more fissures to improve permeability, or changing chemical stability aren’t the primary roles of rock bolts. Bolts are used to weld the rock mass together and suppress movement, not to alter its water flow or chemical properties.