Discrete and continuum approaches for the analysis of coupled thermal-mechanical processes in the near field of a HLW repository

Shimizu, Hiroyuki; Koyama, Tomofumi*; Chijimatsu, Masakazu*; Fujita, Tomoo ; Nakama, Shigeo 

This paper reports on the results of the numerical simulations for the analysis of coupled thermal-mechanical processes in the near field of a HLW repository using Finite Element Method (FEM) and Distinct Element Method (DEM). The FEM approach provides quantitative information of the change of stress and strain during excavation and heating process. On the other hand, the DEM approach shows the crack propagation process at the borehole surface, and this result agrees qualitatively well with the experimental observation. By comparing these results obtained from both approaches, quantitative and qualitative insights into various aspects of the processes occurred in the near field can be obtained.