Coupling analysis of hydraulic fracturing computation base on element-free method

Many concrete structures, such as high concrete dams and deep tunnels, running perennially under the high water pressure condition, are prone to hydraulic fracturing failure. In this paper, a calculation method of water pressure within cracks is proposed, which can reflect the coupling relationship between water flow in cracks and structure deformation. Meanwhile, a crack propagation criterion of hydraulic fracture is proposed, which can be used to analyze the mixed-mode crack propagation problems considering the high water pressure within crack. Based on the theories of seepage and fracture mechanics, a new coupling analysis model for simulating the hydraulic fracturing in concrete structures is presented by using the element-free method (EFM), and the coupling analysis program (CSWF. for) is developed. Then, this analysis model is verified against two numerical examples, and the numerical results have good agreement with the corresponding the law of tests. Finally, the proposed model is applied to simulate hydraulic fracturing in a high concrete gravity dam. Results show that the crack is developed toward the bottom and the downstream of the dam. The ultimate bearing capacity of the dam would decrease obviously if the water pressure within cracks is considered. This study reveals that the coupling analysis model is a very effective tool for simulating the hydraulic fracturing in concrete structures.