Numerical Simulation of Blasting-Induced Rock Fractures

Numerical simulation of blasting-induced rock fractures integrates advanced computational techniques to replicate the complex interaction of explosive detonation, stress‐wave propagation and rock mass response. Central to this field are methods such as the finite element method, smoothed particle hydrodynamics and discrete element modelling, which capture dynamic fragmentation, crack initiation and propagation under high strain rates. Constitutive models tailored to rock behaviour at extreme loading rates—most notably the Johnson–Holmquist II damage model—enable realistic predictions of damage zones, fragment size distributions and energy dissipation. Parametric studies using these simulations guide the optimisation of charge configuration, hole spacing, stemming material and decoupling design to maximise breakage efficiency, control flyrock and minimise vibration. Multiscale approaches link localised fracture processes around individual blastholes to larger‐scale seismic wave transmission in overburden, offering insights for tunnel construction, open‐pit operations and slope stability assessment. By reducing reliance on costly and hazardous field trials, these tools enhance safety, environmental compliance and economic return across mining, civil engineering and infrastructure projects worldwide.

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Numerical Simulation of Blasting-Induced Rock Fractures publication trend

The graph below shows the total number of articles in numerical simulation of blasting-induced rock fractures across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).

Technical terms

Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics–Finite Element Method (SPH-FEM): A hybrid numerical technique combining mesh‐based and particle‐based approaches to simulate fluid‐solid interaction and large deformations around blast holes.

Johnson–Holmquist II (JH-2) Constitutive Model: A damage model describing the dynamic strength, fracture and post‐failure behaviour of rock materials under high strain rates.

Decoupling Coefficient: The ratio of borehole diameter to charge diameter, introduced to control stress‐wave amplitude and tailor fracture propagation.

Peak Particle Velocity (PPV): A metric of ground vibration intensity used to assess environmental impact and structural risk from blasting.

Stress Wave: A transient mechanical disturbance emanating from an explosive charge that drives crack initiation and propagation in rock.

References

1. Theoretical and numerical simulation investigation of deep hole dispersed charge cut blasting. International Journal of Coal Science & Technology (2023).
2. Johnson–Holmquist-II(JH-2) Constitutive Model for Rock Materials: Parameter Determination and Application in Tunnel Smooth Blasting. Applied Sciences (2018).
3. Experimental testing and numerical simulations of blast-induced fracture of dolomite rock. Meccanica (2020).
4. Study of the Rock Crack Propagation Induced by Blasting with a Decoupled Charge under High In Situ Stress. Advances in Civil Engineering (2020).