Stress-Strain Behavior of Jointed Rock - Rock Mechanics Based on an Anisotropic Jointed Rock Model - page 76

method (DEM), methods based on continuum mechanics such as the finite element
method (FEM, see Chapter 10) are also suitable for that purpose. As an example, Fig.
3.22 illustrates the discrete modeling of discontinuities by finite elements for the case of
a sedimentary rock with vertical joints interrupted by horizontal bedding-parallel shear
zones filled with clayey-silty soil.
Figure 3.22 Discrete simulation of discontinuities
An accurate discrete modeling of a rock mass with non-persisting discontinuities re-
quires the simulation of the extension of existing discontinuities and the formation of
new discontinuities if the strength of the intact rock is exceeded. Fracture mechanics
concepts for crack propagation need to be incorporated in order to simulate crack ex-
pansion at the tips of non-persistent discontinuities in a discrete model. For this purpose,
procedures are required for automatic finite element mesh generation and remeshing.