Abstract
In this study, single hole blasts in jointed and unjointed rock plates were simulated using the distinct element code 3DEC. The key of the simulations was to capture the features of brittle failure. To this end, fictitious joints were integrated into two 3DEC rock blasting models. The Coulomb slip model with a newly defined stiffness was applied to the fictitious joints. Additionally, the concept of equivalent cavity was used to prevent element distortions due to high explosion pressure. The verification of the numerical models was done by comparison with small-scale physical model tests. The simulation results revealed clear evidences of brittle failure of the rock plates, without any element distortion.
