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Dynamic response of tunnels in jointed rocks

Conference ·
OSTI ID:139182

The current proposed site for an underground nuclear waste repository is at Yucca Mountain, Nevada. The host rock is a jointed tuff. The question is: how will the repository behave under strong earthquake motion. The basic requirement for analysis is an ability to follow the dynamic motion of a multiplicity of discrete particles, i.e., rock blocks separated by joints and faults. The authors describe the application of the discrete element method (DEM) to the dynamic analysis of the response of tunnels in jointed rocks to earthquake loading. In situations where large motions of many blocks and collapse occur, the discontinuum-based DEM approach appears superior to other methods of analysis.

DOE Contract Number:
W-7405-ENG-48
OSTI ID:
139182
Report Number(s):
CONF-920866--; ISBN 0-87262-945-7
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English