Mechanical behavior of transversely isotropic rocks with non-continuous planar fabrics under compression tests

A new numerical approach based on the particle discrete element theory is built to study the mechanical behavior of transversely isotropic rocks with non-continuous planar fabrics under compression. In this method, the rock matrix is simulated using flat joint contact and fabrics are represented as smooth joint contacts. Firstly, the patterns regarding the relationship between anisotropic index k(1) (the ratio between maximum and minimum strength) or k(2) (the ratio between the strength at theta = 0 degrees and theta = 90 degrees, theta is fabric-loading angles) and confining pressure are obtained. Then, the failure strength curves and fracture mechanisms of rocks with diverse microstructure in rock matrix and different micro-parameters of fabrics are revealed. Finally, the procedure to determine the micro-parameters of the numerical model and the failure patterns of layered surrounding rocks after borehole excavation are studied.