Can continuum damage models capture the mechanisms of dynamic rock breakage/ fragmentation for open-pit mining applications? and is the continuum damage model proposed by Katsabanis and co-workers suitable for the above-mentioned applications?
Rock fragmentation is a complex phenomenon. In order to model it some assumptions have to be made which leads to the outcome of fairly approximate results. There are some mentions in the literature which are attached below for you to gain insight regarding your query.
Article A constitutive model for predicting rock fragmentation by blasting
https://doi.org/10.1002/nag.436
Chapter Dynamic Fracture Analysis Based on a Continuum Damage Model
very complex problem. And you are trying for an application, I can imagine.
You can refer to the site
http://www.geomechanica.com/
For open pit, you can see the power of this solution by the video and following information
http://www.geomechanica.com/services-slope-stab.html
Thanks Luca and Sunny for the comments.
I would, however, like to specifically focus on the application of Continuum Damage Models (CDM). I am aware of approaches like the combined FEM-DEM originally developed by Prof. Antonio Munjiza or Itasca’s Universal Distinct Element Code (UDEC).
What I am looking for, is a much more detailed comparison of different Continuum Damage Models (for rock-like/brittle materials) and their potentials for capturing the mechanisms of dynamic breakage of rocks, in mining applications.
This can help me to find a proper CDM. I may then implement the damage model into FLAC3D FD code. Hence, any comments related to the procedure of implementation would, in particular, be very welcomed.