Mesoscale Modeling of Deformation and Fracture of Rocks Under Different Types of Loading.

In this paper, the mechanical behavior of marble mesovolumes is numerically analyzed by taking into account their structures. Experimental data characterizing porosity and grain structure are used to generate geometrical computer models. To model inelastic deformation, the Nikolaevskiy elastic-plastic model is used. The failure criterion, which combines plastic strain and tensile stress limits, is adopted for the description of mesovolume fracture. The problems are solved with the application of the numerical finite difference method. Mesovolumes with porosity prove to fail fast, due to pores, which are strong stress concentrators. Besides, pore-free mesovolumes withstand long-time loading without failure. Accumulation of inelastic strain and damage takes place in grains with low strength properties. These results may be necessary for mining, underground construction, and other applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]