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Simulations of Underground Structures Subjected to Synamic Loading Using the Distinct Element Method

Conference ·
OSTI ID:803167
The authors present results from a parameter study investigating the stability of underground structures in response to ground shock. Direct simulation requires detailed knowledge of both the facility itself and the surrounding geology. In practice, however, key details (joint spacing, joint stiffness, reinforcement) may not be available. Thus, in order to place bounds upon the predicted behavior of a given facility, an extensive series of simulations representing different realizations may be required. They will discuss the distinct element method (DEM) with particular emphasis on techniques for achieving improved computational efficiency, including the handling of contact detection and approaches to parallelization. Some continuum approaches to the simulation of underground facilities are discussed along with results from underground explosions. Finally, their DEM code is used to simulate dynamic loading of several generic subterranean facilities in hard rock for a range of joint properties and sources, demonstrating the suitability of the DEM for this application.
Research Organization:
Lawrence Livermore National Lab., CA (US)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE Office of Defense Programs (DP) (US)
DOE Contract Number:
W-7405-ENG-48
OSTI ID:
803167
Report Number(s):
UCRL-JC-146927
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English