Hybrid finite-discrete element modelling of dynamic fracture and resultant fragment casting and muck-piling by rock blast

A state-of-the-art review is conducted to highlight the fracture mechanism in rock blast and advantages and limitations of various methods in modelling it. A hybrid finite-discrete element method (FEM-DEM) is implemented to simulate rock fracture and resultant fragment muck-piling in various blasting scenarios. The modelled crushed, cracked and long radial crack zones are compared with those in literatures to calibrate the hybrid FEM-DEM. Moreover, the hybrid modelling reproduces the rock fragmentation process during blasting. It is concluded that the hybrid FEM-DEM is superior to continuous and discontinuous methods in terms of modelling dynamic fracture of rock under blast-induced impact load.