Work

Post-peak dependence analysis in statistical damage constitutive modeling of brittle rocks

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Accurately simulating the post-peak behavior of brittle rocks remains a challenge for statistical damage constitutive models. This study investigates the sensitivity of post-peak simulation to model components by evaluating combinations of three strength criteria and three micro-element strength distributions against triaxial test data from five rock types. Results indicate that the probability distribution of micro-element strength governs simulation accuracy, while the strength criterion exerts minimal influence. Based on these findings, a relative brittleness index-based method for selecting the optimal distribution is proposed, along with a dual-parameter collaborative correction method. Validation shows that this approach significantly enhances the fit to experimental post-peak curves, eliminates criterion-induced interference in parameter adjustment, and remains effective across multiple distribution modes. The proposed method offers a solution for improving the reliability of damage models in predicting brittle rocks failure.

Source: Scientific Reports

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-026-49872-7

Authors: Yixiao Shen, Peidong Zhu, Chao Zhang, Hao Zhou, Dongping Zhu, Yongyi Li

Institutions: University of Hong Kong, Hunan University of Science and Technology

Language: English

Topic: Rock Mechanics and Modeling

Subfield: Mechanics of Materials

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,690

Funder: China Postdoctoral Science Foundation