Analysis of S Wave Propagation Through a Nonlinear Joint with the Continuously Yielding Model

Seismic wave propagation through joints that are embedded in a rock mass is a critical issue for aseismic issues of underground rock engineering. Few studies have investigated nonlinear joints with a continuously yielding model. In this paper, a time-domain recursive method (TDRM) for an S wave across a nonlinear Mohr–Coulomb (MC) slip model is extended to a continuously yielding (CY) model. Verification of the TDRM-based results is conducted by comparison with the simulated results via a built-in model of 3DEC code. Using parametric studies, the effect of normal stress level, amplitude of incident wave, initial joint shear stiffness, and joint spacing is discussed and interpreted for engineering applications because a proper in situ stress level (overburden depth) and acceptable quality of surrounding rock mass are beneficial for seismic stability issues of underground rock excavation. Comparison between the results from the MC model and the CY model is presented both for an idealized impulse excitation and a real ground motion record. Compared with the MC model, complex joint behaviors, such as tangential stiffness degradation, normal stress dependence, and the hysteresis effect, that occurred in the wave propagation can be described with the CY model. The MC model seems to underestimate the joint shear displacement in a high normal stress state and in a real ground motion excitation case.