A numerical model for failure and collapse analysis of geostructures

An improved understanding of geomaterial damage and failure has important implications for preventing the instability of geostructures. In this study, a three-dimensional (3D) numerical model for geomechanics and tunnelling (GeoTun3D) is developed using C++, OpenGL, Fortran and a series of libraries on the basis of our previous studies on the two-dimensional (2D) rock failure process analysis model (RFPA2D) to perform failure and collapse analysis of geo-materials and geo-structures. 3D numerical tests are conducted for unaxial compression test, Brazilian test and notched shear box test to calibrate the numerical model. The model is then applied to investigate fluid-driven crack propagation and fluid immigration in fractured rock mass in tunnelling and excavation-induced rock mass collapse and caving in coal mining and rock caving.