Macroscopic Mechanical Properties of Brittle Materials with a 3D Internal Crack Based on Particle Flow Simulations

Pre-existing cracks significantly influence the macro-mechanical properties of rock. The and crack propagation process brittle materials with a 3D internal were investigated PFC3D simulation in this paper. To determine micro-parameters, micro-parameters on ultimate failure mode was discussed. SJM’s parameters had little mode. Peak axial stress changed greatly by strength friction coefficient, macro-elastic modulus influenced Young’s slightly other parameters. gradually all except modulus, which strong but irregular impact it. peak 138 MPa sample crack, agreed well experimental result (137 MPa). can be divided into three stages: 17% total generated initial stage; 76% propagated when main surface coalesced; finally, expanded downwards caused to destroyed. Cracks initially appeared near end lower major axis agreement results. results demonstrated that is reliable method simulate cracks.