A rapid method for measuring the rock brittleness index: Rapid characterization of rock brittleness based on LIBS technology

The brittle index is a crucial indicator in the assessment of rockbursts. The mineral brittle index (MBI) is widely utilized due to its simplicity and accessibility. However, the lengthy and inefficient mineral composition testing cycle presents a significant challenge. A novel approach using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) to rapidly convert spectral elements into minerals and measure the rock brittleness index was introduced in this paper. The laser spectra of metamorphic sandstone and granite were measured by LIBS, and some rock elements were tested by X-ray fluorescence (XRF) to construct a spectral-elemental model. Furthermore, the mineral composition of the rocks was determined by X-ray diffraction (XRD). Eight major elements, Si, Al, K, Ca, Na, Fe, Mg, and Ti, were selected as independent variables. Element-mineral correlation analysis was performed using centered log-ratio transformation (CLR) processing. A random forest regression (RF-R) element-mineral transformation model was established for rapid conversion of spectral-element-mineral brittle index. Finally, mechanical testing of rock embrittlement in the DJ Tunnel was conducted to verify the efficacy of MBI in characterizing rock embrittlement in the DJ Tunnel. The results demonstrate that predicted values of mineral compositions are in good agreement with experimental values and that predicted values of brittleness indices are also in good agreement with experimental values. The rapid and effective application of LIBS in determining rock mineral composition and rock brittleness index has been realised, which is of great significance for further realising the rapid assessment of rock brittleness and rockburst prediction at engineering sites.