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Numerical simulation of lifetime and time-dependent damage for granite by continuous and discontinuous approaches

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Abstract

In this study, the time-dependent damage process of granite is investigated utilizing two numerical simulation schemes based on continuous method and discontinuous method. Numerical creep tests are carried out with both simulation schemes and mechanical responses and fracture patterns of rock specimens are analyzed. The calibrated numerical models can successfully reflect the typical creep stages observed in the laboratory. The predicted lifetime is in accordance with the laboratory test data. Comparisons are made between the two simulation schemes. It is found that both schemes have unique features that can promote a genuine reflection of the time-dependent damage process of the brittle rocks.

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Acknowledgements

This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC, Grant No. 11402311 and No. 51608537). The authors thank the anonymous reviewers and editors for their valuable hints and suggestions for the improvement of this paper.

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Correspondence to Xiang Li.

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Chen, W., Li, X. & Konietzky, H. Numerical simulation of lifetime and time-dependent damage for granite by continuous and discontinuous approaches. Environ Earth Sci 77, 594 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12665-018-7781-z

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