A proposal of geostress measurement technique by plate fracturing

We propose "Plate Fracturing Technique" to measure gee-stresses. The theory of this technique is similar to that of hydraulic fracturing method and sleeve fracturing method. By using this technique, we can create the fracture in controlled direction. We can, then skip the procedure for checking the direction of the fracture. The assumed conditions of stress analysis are also simplified. Therefore, we can improve the precision of measurements by using this technique. This paper describes outline of this technique, demonstrates state of stress around the fracture by Finite Element Method (FEM) and results of an experiment in laboratory with a simple model.