Multi-potential based discontinuous bifurcation model for jointed rock masses and its application Original Research Article

Based on the localization mechanism of jointed rock masses, damage localization in jointed rock masses can be treated in terms of discontinuous bifurcation. The discontinuous bifurcation model for jointed rock masses in the framework of multi-potential theory is presented in this paper. A numerical method is used to obtain the solution of the eigenvalue problem resulting from the bifurcation model. Consideration of elements embedded with discontinuous deformation mode is made and corresponding codes are incorporated into standard FEM programs thus enabling the applicability of the programs for localization problems. With the aid of the enhanced FEM program, localization bands, i.e., dominant cracking bands, in specimens under tension or compression are simulated numerically by using the proposed model. Numerical results show different localization bands in distinct load cases. To demonstrate the potential application of this program, analysis of Xiluodu arch dam which is one of the largest arch dams in southwest China, serves as an example of engineering cases. The results of Xiluodu arch dam from numerical analysis and physical modeling test are compared and coincided very well with each other.