Numerical study on S-wave transmission across a rough, filled discontinuity

Abstract

This paper presents a numerical simulation of S-wave propagation across a rough, filled discontinuity using the universal distinct element code (UDEC). The ability of UDEC to simulate a stress wave across a smooth and planar discontinuity filled with an elastic material is validated through comparisons with analytical solutions. Next, the effect of the plastic deformation of the fill on the wave propagation is investigated. The model is extended to further study S-wave propagation across a filled discontinuity with rough interfaces, which is described using a sawtooth. The transmission coefficient defined by the energy is used to measure the wave attenuation. Finally, a parametric study is conducted to investigate the influences of the filled thickness, asperity angle, and incident amplitude on the transmission waves and transmission coefficients. The asperity angle and filled thickness together determine the transmitted waveform and transmission coefficient. The transmitted wave may be cut off when the incident wave amplitude exceeds a threshold value. The transmission coefficient decreases with a different trend with the incident wave amplitude increasing when the asperity angle varies. Compared with planar discontinuity, a filled discontinuity with rough interfaces is more sensitive to the amplitude of the incident wave. The causes of these phenomena are analyzed in detail. In addition, the deformation of the fill material is strongly related to the wave attenuation.