PFC^2D SIMULATION OF ROCKFILL SHEAR STRENGTH BASED ON PARTICLE FRAGMENTATION

PFC^2D code is used to simulate the direct shear tests of rockfills, taking into consideration of the particle crushing. The methods to establish the model of the rockfill sample and conduct the tests are given. The results obtained from the numerical simulation are analyzed from several aspects, such as the characteristics of stress-strain relationship, volume strain and shear strength. The effect of the contact-bond strength between basic particles, the porosity of the single rock particle and the porosity of the rockfill material on the shear strength of the rockfills are also discussed.