加拿大劳伦森大学蔡明教授学术讲座

Shattering a Half-Century Misconception: The Truth About “Class II Rocks”

主讲人 : 蔡明 教授

The classification of rocks into “Class I” and “Class II” has long shaped how we interpret and utilize post-peak stress–strain curves in rock mechanics. But do Class II rocks truly exist? In this talk, we will revisit this fundamental question.

We begin with a historical overview of servo-controlled rock testing machines and trace the development of stiff testing systems. After highlighting key pioneering contributions, we critically discuss common misconceptions surrounding the Class I/Class II dichotomy. Drawing on recent experimental evidence, we explore the mechanisms that produce apparent Class II post-peak behavior.

Key factors—including machine stiffness, loading control mode, confining pressure, rock type, and specimen geometry (especially the height-to-diameter ratio)—are examined for their influence on post-peak stress–strain responses. We also address how misinterpretations of Class II behavior have fueled persistent misunderstandings in the rock mechanics community.

This session is intended for anyone studying or working with rock behavior under stress—whether in the laboratory, the field, or numerical simulations. Join us to challenge conventional views and gain a clearer understanding of the physical mechanisms that govern rock deformation.

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主讲人简介：

蔡明教授现为加拿大劳伦森大学终身教授和地质力学讲席教授。他拥有逾 30 年学术、科研及工业界从业经验，主要研究方向包括：脆性岩石破坏、岩石试验、数值模拟、冲击地压条件下的巷道支护设计，以及深部采矿工程岩体稳定性评价。其学术成果在全球采矿与岩土工程领域具有深远影响力，已发表学术论文260 余篇，谷歌学术总引用量超17000 次，工程咨询报告50 余篇，相关研究成果已成为行业标杆规范。目前是国际权威学术刊物Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering, Tunnelling and Underground Space Technology, Canadian Geotechnical Journal等多个期刊编委。凭借开创性学术贡献，蔡明教授荣获 2017 年加拿大岩土工程学会富兰克林奖，2025 年加拿大矿业、冶金与石油学会（CIM）岩石力学奖。