DEM investigation of the fracture mechanism of rock disc containing hole(s) and its influence on tensile strength

Macroporosity, pores or holes are common in rock mass, and play important roles on mechanical behaviors of rock mass. The aim of the numerical study presented in this paper is to investigate the fracture mechanism of rock disc containing hole(s) and its influence on tensile strength using the discrete element method (DEM). With special reference to experimental tests, the methodology of using triangle blocks in the Universal Distinct Element...