Abstract
The anisotropic behavior of a rock mass with persistent and planar joint sets is mainly governed by the geometrical and mechanical characteristics of the joints. The aim of the study is to develop a continuum-based approach for simulation of multi jointed geomaterials. Within the continuum methods, the discontinuities are regarded as smeared cracks in an implicit manner and all the joint parameters are incorporated into the equivalent constitutive equations. A new equivalent continuum model, called multi-joint model, is developed for jointed rock masses which may contain up to three arbitrary persistent joint sets. The Mohr-Coulomb yield criterion is used to check failure of the intact rock and the joints. The proposed model has solved the issue of multiple plasticity surfaces involved in this approach combined with multiple failure mechanisms. The multi-joint model was implemented into Fast Lagrangian Analysis of Continua software (FLAC) and is verified against the strength anisotropy behavior of jointed rock. A case study considering a circular excavation under uniform and non-uniform in-situ stresses is used to illustrate the practical application. The multi-joint model is compared with the ubiquitous joint model.
Highlights
IntroductionThe behavior of a jointed rock (within this paper this term includes jointed rock masses) is anisotropic, non-linear and stress path dependent due to the presence of discontinuities
The behavior of a jointed rock is anisotropic, non-linear and stress path dependent due to the presence of discontinuities
Numerical and empirical methods are suggested in order to take into account the influence of discontinuities on the mechanical behavior of jointed rock [1,2,3,4,5,6]
Summary
The behavior of a jointed rock (within this paper this term includes jointed rock masses) is anisotropic, non-linear and stress path dependent due to the presence of discontinuities. Numerical and empirical methods are suggested in order to take into account the influence of discontinuities on the mechanical behavior of jointed rock [1,2,3,4,5,6]. Two numerical techniques are common in rock mechanics: continuum-based methods and discontinuum based methods. Discontinuum methods consider the rock mass as an assemblage of rigid or deformable blocks connected along discontinuities [14], and investigate the microscopic mechanisms in granular material and crack development in rocks [3,15]. The discontinuities are considered as smeared planes of weakness (joints) incorporated in each zone.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
