Quasi-static strength and creep deformational characteristics of bedded salt from the Carey mine near Lyons, Kansas

This report presents the results of a laboratory effort which was undertaken to determine mechanical properties of salt from Lyons, Kansas. Another goal of the experimental work was to define testing procedures, calibrations and data reduction during the process of generating strength data. Mechanical properties such as modulus of deformation and principal strain ratio were incorporated into simulations of Project Salt Vault using finite element methods. Deformational behavior of Lyons salt subjected to constant stress levels for extended periods of time was also evaluated in this experimental effort and compared to results determined for salt from other locations. Strength data and empirical relationships of strain as a function of time, stress and temperature were reduced for application to finite element analyses.