The chapter presents a method for non-destructive identification of discontinuity of a resin layer (grout) surrounding rock bolts. The method uses modal analysis procedures and is based on an impact excitation where a response transducer is positioned at a visible part of a rock bolt. Since the installed rock bolt acts as an oscillator, its modal parameters are changed by different lengths and positions of grouting discontinuity. Thanks to proper extraction of these parameters, with a resonant frequency seen as the most valuable, the intended identification is possible. The measurements and analyses were performed in laboratory conditions and subsequently at experimental and working coal mines where the measurement system was verified. The developed finite element model of the system under test, rock bolt - resin - rock mass, may be used as reference data base for investigated rock bolts. The advantages of the method include plausibility of grouting discontinuity assessment at any time after its installation, a non-destructive character of the method and the fact that it is not necessary to install any additional equipment into a roof section. It enables a localization of a grout discontinuity, whether it is the back part or the front part of a rock bolt.
Part of the book: Mining Technology