Stochastic and Centrifuge Modelling of Jointed Rock. Volume 1. Fracturing ofFractured Rock

摘要

Rock mass failure can occur through the propagation of cracks emanating from andcausing coalescence of pre-existing fractures. The objective of this research was to develop a mechanical model for fracture coalescence which can be used in conjunction with numerical methods to simulate rock mass failure. The study consisted of: (1) Monitoring growth in uniaxially compressed gypsum specimens with pre-existing fractures with various arrangements. Consistent coalescence behavior as a function of preexisting fracture geometry was noted and is documented; (2) Development of an analytical coalescence model based on correlations between computed stress/strain fields and observed fracturing in the experiments. Using this analytical model, satisfactory agreement was achieved between simulated and experimental coalescence behavior as a function of pre-existing fracture geometry.