Damage evolution and constitutive model of the rock masses with non-penetrating cracks under repeated impact loading

A large number of cracks exist in natural rock masses, which significantly affects the stability of surrounding rocks in engineering under impact loading. Repeated impact tests by Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar are performed on non-penetrating cracked granite specimens with different prefabricated-crack inclination angles (0, 30, 45, 60, and 90 degrees). The damage evolution law of cracked rock under repeated impact loading is investigated. Macroscopic damage variables considering geometric and mechanical parameters of cracks are proposed. Further, a constitutive model for the impact loading test is developed based on the coupling damage. It has been found that, the impact resistance of fractured rock first decreases and then increases with the increased prefabricated-crack inclination angle. The impact resistance for specimens with an inclination angle of 45 degrees is the minimum. Theoretical results from the developed model agree with the experimental data. The model could well describe the progressive damage characteristics of cracked rock masses.

Automated summary

This study investigates the damage evolution of cracked rock under repeated impact loading through impact tests and proposes macroscopic damage variables considering geometric and mechanical parameters. A constitutive model based on the coupling damage is developed to describe the progressive damage characteristics of cracked rock masses.