Modelling 3D jointed rock masses using a lattice spring model

• The DLSM was further extended for 3D jointed rock masses.
• A unified description of jointed rock masses is introduced within the framework of the DLSM.
• The geometric operation and constitutive models to model 3D jointed rock masses are developed.
• The improved DLSM is demonstrated by using several numerical examples of 3D jointed rock masses.

This study further develops the distinct lattice spring model (DLSM) to model jointed rock masses as a group of particles linked with spring bonds. This unified description of jointed rock masses is realised through the introduction of continuum- and discontinuum-based spring bonds into the DLSM. The joints are geometrically inputted as a group of triangles to aid in the generation of discontinuum-based spring bonds that are formed from a cutting operation between triangles and initial continuum-based spring bonds. A simple elasto-brittle model and Mohr–Coulomb constitutive model are introduced for the continuum- and discontinuum-based spring bonds to describe the mechanical responses of jointed rock masses. With these developments, the DLSM's ability to model jointed rock masses is demonstrated through numerical examples.