Numerical study on size effect and anisotropy of columnar jointed basalts under uniaxial compression

Under uniaxial loading, the heterogeneity of rock mass, change mechanical properties joints, and progressive fracture process mass significantly affect size effect anisotropy columnar jointed basalts (CJBs). To reveal features failure mechanisms CJBs influenced by anisotropy, digital image correlation (DIC), meso-damage mechanics, statistical strength theory, continuum mechanics were combined (the DIC-improved RFPA), images CJB specimens processed to establish inhomogeneous numerical models, a series tests therefore conducted. The gradual processes macro patterns orthogonal parallel column axis under compression studied, effects various factors on anisotropic further analyzed. results show that model size, dip angle, heterogeneity, diameter, elastic modulus residual coefficient ratio shift distance irregularity degrees columns, boundaries have remarkable complex behaviors CJBs. greatly improve our understanding non-linear deformation provide theorical basis for engineering construction in areas