Development and validation of computer models for structures in jointed rock

An extensive program was conducted to develop and validate computer models for the deformation of structures in jointed rock. Both discrete element and finite element models were investigated. The program comprised a sequence of seven calculational and experimental studies. In the final step, model predictions were compared with experimental data from a well-instrumented jointed-rock precision test. The results show that the sophisticated models developed were able to predict some elements of structural deformation in jointed rock, but that it is difficult to make high-confidence predictions of all aspects of structural deformation with these models. Copyright © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.