Numerical Analysis on Two-Layer Bundle-Hole Cut Blasting with Continuous–Discontinuous Elements

Comparing to traditional cut blasting, multilayer bundle-hole cut blasting shows improved performance because of the much bigger size of the induced stress wave. When blasting happens in quasi-brittle geotechnical materials such as rocks, theoretical analysis is not enough for predicting the damaged area and evaluating specific blasting design. Numerical tools capable of capturing the fracturing processes of rock subjected to dynamics loadings are necessary. In this work, continuous–discontinuous elements method is adopted for evaluating the blasting effects of two-layer bundle-hole cut blasting designs. Straight and inclined holes are considered. After comparing the size of damaged areas and blasted rock pieces, best design is determined.