Elastic–plastic cracking analysis for brittle–ductile rocks using manifold method

In this study, the formation of localized deformation band and failure processes of brittle–ductile materials (coarse and medium marbles) containing pre-existing flaws under various loading conditions are simulated numerically. By incorporating the modified Mohr–Coulomb crack initiation criterion and the crack evolution techniques, the cracking processes, such as crack initiation, propagation and coalescence are successfully modeled by the developed numerical manifold method. According to the results, the development of macro-shear cracks is preceded by the development of localized deformation bands, which are underlain by damage accumulation and material deterioration. The numerical results are comparable to the laboratory test results.