A Rough Discrete Fracture Network Model for Geometrical Modeling of Jointed Rock Masses and the Anisotropic Behaviour

The geometry of the joint determines the mechanical properties of the rock mass and is one of the key factors affecting the failure mode of surrounding rock masses. In this paper, a new rough discrete fractures network (RDFN) characterization method based on the Fourier transform method was proposed. The unified characterization of the complex geometric fracture network was achieved by changing the different Fourier series values, which further improved the characterization method of the RDFN model. A discrete element numerical calculation model of the complex RDFN model was established by combining MATLAB with PFC code. Numerical simulation of the anisotropic mechanical properties was performed for the RDFN model with a complex joint network. Based on the results, the geometry of the joint network has a significant influence on the strength and failure patterns of jointed rock masses. The failure modes of the opening are highly affected by the orientation of the fracture sets. The existence of the rough fracture sets could influence the failure area of different excavation situations. The study findings provide a new characterization method for the RDFN model and a new characterization approach for stability analysis of complex jointed rock masses.

Automated summary

This paper proposes a rough discrete fractures network (RDFN) characterization method based on the Fourier transform method. By changing the different Fourier series values, the unified characterization of the complex geometric fracture network is achieved. The study findings suggest that the geometry of the joint network significantly influences the strength and failure modes of jointed rock masses, and the orientation of the fracture sets plays a crucial role in the failure modes of opening.