Fracturing process in an anisotropic layered geomaterial: theoretical and computational predictions

Fracturing process in an anisotropic layered geomaterial: theoretical and computational predictions

Martina Rinaldi, Marco Trullo, Francesco Tornabene, Rossana Dimitri

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Abstract. The present work investigates the fracturing behavior of an anisotropic layered geomaterial, known as Opalinus Clay (OPA). The formation of this rock is mainly related to a sedimentation process, where bedding planes correspond to planes of isotropy. OPA is here studied because of its good properties, primarily, the low permeability and high adsorption capability, which make it a perfect candidate for the storage of radioactive waste. The characterization of this rock takes place experimentally in the Mont Terri Rock Laboratory, in the northern Switzerland, with an increased attention to theoretical and computational predictions. In this context, this work aims at simulating the nonlinear crack behavior of OPA by using the eXtended Finite Element Method (XFEM) and damage mechanics. The study is applied on a Semi-Circular specimen under a Bending load (SCB), whose fracturing response is investigated in terms of peak load and direction of the cracking propagation for different notch dimensions and geometries.

Keywords
Anisotropic Geomaterials, Fracture Mechanics, XFEM

Published online 3/17/2022, 6 pages
Copyright © 2023 by the author(s)
Published under license by Materials Research Forum LLC., Millersville PA, USA

Citation: Martina Rinaldi, Marco Trullo, Francesco Tornabene, Rossana Dimitri, Fracturing process in an anisotropic layered geomaterial: theoretical and computational predictions, Materials Research Proceedings, Vol. 26, pp 29-34, 2023

DOI: https://doi.org/10.21741/9781644902431-5

The article was published as article 5 of the book Theoretical and Applied Mechanics

Content from this work may be used under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 license. Any further distribution of this work must maintain attribution to the author(s) and the title of the work, journal citation and DOI.

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