Upper and lower bounds for constitutive relation of crack-weakened rock masses under dynamic compressive loads

A micro-mechanics-based model is proposed to investigate the rate-dependent constitutive relation for crack-weakened rock masses subjected to dynamic compressive loads. The present micro-mechanical model reveals that the nucleation, growth and coalescence of sliding cracks dominate the failure and macroscopic properties of crack-weakened rock masses subjected to dynamic compressive loads. The interactions among multiple parallel sliding cracks in crack-weakened rock masses subjected to dynamic compressive loads are examined asymptotically in an explicit and quantitative manner in order to reveal fully their so-called shielding and magnification effects on the stress–strain relation. Based on the micro-mechanical framework and the asymptotic analysis, analytical upper and lower bounds are proposed for the rate-relation for rock masses containing multiple rows of echelon cracks subjected to dynamic compressive loads. The factors that affect the rate-dependent properties of crack-weakened rock masses have been analyzed. The strain energy density factor approach, which is related to crack growth velocity and dynamic fracture toughness of rock material, is employed in the analysis. The rate-dependent constitutive relation of crack-weakened rock masses is derived from micro-mechanical framework and the asymptotic analysis. The closed-form explicit expression for the rate-dependent constitutive relation of rock masses containing echelon cracks subjected to dynamic compressive loads is obtained. Finally, the present model is used to analyze the complete stress–strain relation and strength for jointed rock masses at shiplock slope of the Three Gorges Dam.