Considerable research has recently been undertaken to investigate the simulation of brittle fracture mechanisms using distinct element grain boundary models. However, to date, few studies have addressed the limitations of these models when used for predictive analysis. Our research suggests that mesh geometry dependencies can impart irreducible uncertainties into the method despite apparent calibration. In addition, Voronoi meshing routines can limit the kinematic freedom, and increase the degree of interlocking and localized tensile failure; whereas, more recently introduced triangular mesh geometries can have an opposite effect, increasing kinematic freedom, and predisposing models toward shear failure mechanisms.
Full paper available at ScienceDirect (Computers and Geotechnics, Vol. 82, Feb. 2017, Pages 110-123).
