Three-Dimensional Network Model for Coupling~of~Fracture and Mass Transport in Quasi-Brittle Geomaterials

TL;DR

This paper introduces a dual 3D network model combining structural and transport elements to simulate fracture effects on mass transport in quasi-brittle geomaterials, enhancing accuracy and objectivity.

Contribution

It develops a novel dual network discretization strategy linking fracture and transport processes, validated through benchmark comparisons.

Findings

Model accurately captures fracture-transport coupling.

Approach is objective to element size and orientation.

Demonstrates improved simulation of non-stationary transport.

Abstract

Dual three-dimensional networks of structural and transport elements were combined to model the effect of fracture on mass transport in quasi-brittle geomaterials. Element connectivity of the structural network, representing elasticity and fracture, was defined by the Delaunay tessellation of a random set of points. The connectivity of transport elements within the transport network was defined by the Voronoi tessellation of the same set of points. A new discretisation strategy for domain boundaries was developed to apply boundary conditions for the coupled analyses. The properties of transport elements were chosen to evolve with the crack opening values of neighbouring structural elements. Through benchmark comparisons involving non-stationary transport and fracture, the proposed dual network approach was shown to be objective with respect to element size and orientation.