Analysis of rock mass classification methods using the acquaintance relations between rock property parameters

The acquaintance relations between rock mass classification methods, RMR and Q, and their parameters are analyzed. The correlation coefficients between parameters and the matrix of acquaintance relations are derived. The acquaintance relation matrix can prescribe the proper correlations between rock parameters and give good reliability in the estimation of rock mass characteristics. This matrix of the acquaintance relations can be further extended to the form of network, and could be used to analyze the correlativity and to enhance the utility of existing rock mass classification methods.