REV Application in DEM Analysis of Non-Vibrational Rock Splitting Method to Propose Feasible Borehole Spacing

Abstract

Most of the tunnel excavation methods involve the use of explosion and vibration techniques that is not feasible in urban areas due to unavoidable production of noise, vibration, and dust. The environmental considerations of tunneling projects in urban areas demand the use of excavation methods in which minimum noise, vibration, and dust is produced. In this study, non-vibrational rock splitting method is introduced that involves the fragmentation of rock segments using a split-wedge system inserted into already drilled boreholes. The main objective of this study is the investigation of important parameters involved in the non-vibrational rock splitting method for improving its efficiency. Discrete element analysis of this method was performed using Particle Flow Code (PFC2D) and the concept of Representative Elementary Volume (REV) was used to simulate intact rocks based on their unconfined compressive strength and modulus ratio concept. Maximum borehole spacing values were obtained using the numerical simulation of rock splitting process in intact rocks. The numerical analysis results show that increased borehole spacing values can be used for all intact rock types in cases of average modulus ratio and high modulus ratio and also that decreasing the borehole depth generally results in the use of increased borehole spacing.