From the geological structure of the columnar jointed rock mass, a visual model was established in software AUTOCAD by programming based on the algorithm of the Voronoi diagram. Furthermore, a program to convert the AUTOCAD model into 3DEC (3-dimensional distinct element code) model was developed, and a numerical model was established in 3DEC. Moreover, the results of triaxial compression tests of columnar jointed rock masses were simulated numerically. The REV (representative element volume) scale was studied, and the result shows that the REV size is 3 m × 3 m. The proposed approach, the established model and the numerical simulation were applied to study the macro-mechanical properties and the equivalent strength parameters of the columnar jointed rock mass. The numerical simulation results are in good accordance with the in-situ test results.
Abstract:To evaluate the columnar jointed basalts in the dam site of Baihetan hydropower station in southwest China, we developed a basic conceptual model of single jointed rock mass. Considering that the rock mass deformation consists of rock block deformation and joints deformation, the linear mechanical characteristics of the cell (including the elastic joints and the nonlinear mechanical behaviors of the cell) with a combined frictional-elastic interface were analyzed. We developed formulas to calculate the rock block deformation, which can be adapted for multiple jointed rock mass and columnar jointed basalts. The formulas are effective in calculating the equivalent modulus of multiple jointed rock mass, and precisely reveal the anisotropic properties of columnar jointed basalts. Furthermore, the in situ rigid bearing plate tests were analyzed and calculated, and the types of loading-unloading curves and the equivalent modulus along different directions of columnar jointed basalts were obtained. The analytical results are in close compliance with the test results.
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