Numerical investigation of the deformation properties of rock materials subjected to cyclic compression by the finite element method

Rock materials, which are involved in a myriad of engineering projects, are often subjected to cyclic loading, such as earthquakes. Understanding the dynamic deformation properties of rock materials under cyclic loading is necessary for evaluating the stability of rock engineering structures. This study numerically investigated the influence of cyclic loading conditions (e.g., waveform, frequency, maximum loading stress and amplitude) on the deformation properties of rock samples using the finite element method (FEM). On the basis of the Drucker–Prager (D-P) yield criterion and sub-loading surface theory, a dynamic constitutive model for reproducing the hysteresis loops and the accumulative plastic deformation of rock materials subjected to cyclic loading was established, numerically implemented using FEM, and validated through comparison with experimental results on basalt and granite model materials. Then, cyclic uniaxial loading tests were simulated with a range of loading parameters, and the deformation properties of rock samples were analyzed. The results indicated that the hysteresis loops and accumulated plastic deformation of rock materials during the cyclic process can be numerically reproduced in an effective manner. The loading parameters significantly affected dynamic deformation properties such as the maximum strain, irreversible strain and hysteresis loop. The simulation results were almost consistent with the experimental results in the published literature. Therefore, through the proposed dynamic constitutive model, FEM can be used to numerically simulate the influence of cyclic loading conditions on the deformation properties of rock materials. •A model for reproducing the deformation characteristic of rock materials subjected to cyclic loading was established.•Cyclic uniaxial loading tests for rock samples with distinct loading parameters were simulated by FEM.•The loading parameters significantly affect the dynamic deformation properties.