Numerical Modeling of Crack Propagation in Fractured Rock Systems
Summary
Numerical modelling of crack propagation in fractured rock systems has emerged as an essential tool for assessing the stability of underground excavations, the integrity of geological reservoirs and the response of rock masses to natural and engineered loading. By representing rock as a discontinuous medium, modern approaches capture the initiation, growth and coalescence of fissures under static, dynamic and coupled hydro-thermo-mechanical conditions. Meshfree techniques such as smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) and hybrid finite-discrete element methods allow for seamless transition from continuum deformation to discrete fracture, while advanced measurement algorithms improve the quantification of crack opening displacement in complex multi-fracture scenarios. These computational advances underpin safer tunnel design, more effective hydraulic fracturing operations and refined models of seismic damage in rock infrastructures, offering predictive insight for civil, mining and energy industries worldwide.
Research from Nature Portfolio
Recent studies have refined the measurement of fracture opening in rock specimens under complex multi-crack conditions. An improved virtual extensometer method corrects for digital image correlation errors by accounting for temporal and spatial development of strain localisation, achieving less than 4 % error in crack opening displacement across multiple crack networks. In the context of dynamic loading, a hybrid finite-discrete element method incorporating a frequency-dependent cohesive-zone model has been applied to sandy mudstone. This framework captures the transition from continuous deformation to discrete fragmentation, demonstrating that cyclic loading frequency elevates compressive strength and alters failure modes, thereby offering new perspectives on seismic-induced cracking and rock mass resilience.
Numerical Modeling of Crack Propagation in Fractured Rock Systems publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in numerical modeling of crack propagation in fractured rock systems across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH): A meshfree, particle-based method for solving continuum mechanics equations without fixed connectivity.
Total Lagrangian SPH (TLF-SPH): A variant of SPH that computes kernel functions in the initial configuration for enhanced stability and efficiency.
Crack Opening Displacement (COD): The separation distance between opposing faces of a propagating crack, used to quantify fracture growth.
Hybrid Finite-Discrete Element Method (HFDEM): A numerical approach combining continuum finite element and discrete element formulations to model fracture initiation and propagation.
Cohesive-Zone Model: A constitutive law describing the stress-separation relationship ahead of a crack tip, governing fracture initiation and progression.
Hydro-Thermo-Mechanical Coupling: The simultaneous simulation of fluid flow, heat transfer and mechanical deformation within a rock mass.
References
- Improved virtual extensometer measurement method in complex multi-fracture situation. Scientific Reports (2022).
- A hybrid finite-discrete element method for modelling cracking processes in sandy mudstone containing a single edge-flaw under cyclic dynamic loading. Scientific Reports (2024).
- A coupled hydro-thermo-mechanical model based on TLF-SPH for simulating crack propagation in fractured rock mass. Geomechanics and Geophysics for Geo-Energy and Geo-Resources (2024).
- An Extended Hydro-Mechanical Coupling Model Based on Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics for Simulating Crack Propagation in Rocks under Hydraulic and Compressive Loads. Materials (2023).
- Numerical Simulation Analysis of Fracture Propagation in Rock Based on Smooth Particle Hydrodynamics. Materials (2023).
Turn complex research questions into confident strategic decisions
When you're under pressure to set direction, justify investment, or understand your competitive position, you need more than raw data — you need trusted insights you can act on.
Benchmark your performance against global peers using robust, methodologically sound analysis.
Combine quantitative metrics with qualitative expert insight to uncover strengths, gaps and emerging opportunities.
Gain tailored, decision-ready recommendations aligned to your strategic priorities.
Talk to us to learn more about our data dashboards and bespoke strategy reports.
Grow research skills, confidence and careers with training built for every stage of the research lifecycle.
Developed with Nature Portfolio journal Editors and internationally renowned experts. Discover three ways to learn:
Self-paced, online courses in convenient bite-sized units, covering key skills across scientific writing, publishing, grant writing, data analysis, and more.
Expert trainer-led workshops with hands-on exercises and real-time feedback across core research skills, delivered via interactive group sessions.
Editor-led workshops combining core principles in writing and publishing, personalised 1:1 feedback from Nature Portfolio Editors and hands-on exercises.
Explore course catalogues and workshop agendas, enquire about the options or request institutional pricing.