Dynamic Impact and Fragmentation

Dynamic impact and fragmentation are highly complex phenomena. Members of the Centre for Geotechnical Science and Engineering have been conducting world-class research on the topic applied to rockfall engineering.

Our team has developed sophisticated numerical models and advanced high-speed 3D tracking facilities over recent years to advance knowledge in this area.

Competitive advantage

• Unique impact and fragmentation testing facilities
• Access to customised CV-based 3D 6DoF tracking software
• Extensive expertise in developing advanced numerical models
• Expertise in conducting advanced full scale and small-scale material testing
• Outstanding interdisciplinary research team with extensive industry engagement, including Australian Academy of Science medallist and postdoctoral fellows

Successful applications of research

• Prediction of fragmentation probability from material properties
• Characterisation of the effect of fragment size on perforation energy of systems

Partners

• Road and Maritime Services
• Geobrugg AG
• Australian Coal Association Research Program
• Australian Research Council

Impact

• Optimisation of rockfall protection systems and impacted structures
• Better assessment of the amount of energy dissipated in fragmentation
• Prediction of kinetic energy of fragments for better protection
• Understanding of the failure mechanics and fragmentation process of impacting objects

Capabilities and facilities

• Small-scale and full-scale testing facilities
• Advanced, synchronised high-speed multi-camera system
• Custom-build fragmentation cell
• High-speed pressure measurement sensor
• Computational codes (FEM, DEM) for simulating dynamic impacts and fragmentation

Professor Anna Giacomini