Particle Flow Modeling of Rock Blocks with Nonpersistent Open Joints under Uniaxial Compression

Abstract

In this study, numerical simulation of rock blocks with nonpersistent open joints under uniaxial compression was undertaken using the particle flow modeling method. First, the micromechanical parameter values of intact material were calibrated through a trial-and-error process using macromechanical laboratory test results. Then, a back-analysis procedure was used to calibrate the joint gap and joint micromechanical parameter values using laboratory test results conducted on jointed rock blocks. Afterward, the effects of joint dip angle, joint persistency, and joint gap on the mechanical behavior of block models having nonpersistent open joints was investigated using the calibrated micromechanical parameter values. The joint dip angle and joint persistency were found to play significant roles in the failure mode, strength, and stress–strain relationship of jointed blocks. The joint gap played a significant to negligible role in the mechanical behavior of jointed block models gradually when the joint dip angle was increased from 0 to 90°. The contact and interaction of joint surfaces were found to have a significant influence on the mechanical behavior of jointed blocks.