Block element method for seepage analysis in three dimensional random fracture network

Fractures in rock masses are randomly distributed; and the seepage in the rock masses mainly happens in these fractures. The Monte Carlo method is adopted to generate the stochastic fracture network firstly. Then, on the base of the theory of directed body, the automatic identification method for three dimensional network with random fractures is realized, including the concave and multi-connected blocks. Next, based on the assumption that the intact rock is impervious and the water flows only along the fractures, the block element method for seepage analysis of three dimensional network with random fractures is established. Finally, two examples are studied to prove the precision and validity of this method.