Influence of rock block characteristics and earthquakes on the entire process of rockfall movement based on discrete element simulation

Earthquake-induced rockfalls are characterized by high frequency, large scale, and severe consequences. While earthquake shaking is known to promote the initiation of unstable rock masses, its influence during the migration and accumulation stages of rockfall movement remains insufficiently understood. In this study, the discrete element method (DEM) was used to analyze the influence of block characteristics and seismic loading on the entire process of rockfall movement. The results indicate that block with larger particle size and shapes closer to sphere tends to exhibit longer horizontal travel distances. Additionally, seismic loading can enhance the energy of block initiation and motion on inclined slopes, particularly when the collapsed block maintains prolonged contact with the slope surface. However, once the block reaches the slope toe and move onto relatively flat terrain, seismic shaking no longer contributes significantly to its movement. At this stage, block characteristics and ground surface roughness become the dominant factors influencing mobility. These findings provide valuable insights for the prediction and mitigation of earthquake-induced rockfall disasters.