Multiscale modelling of dynamic impact on highly deformable compound rockfall fence nets

Herein a discrete-element model of a full-scale compound mesh barrier, formed by interweaved double-twist hexagonal meshes and strand rope square meshes is presented. A plastic hardening model is employed to investigate the energy dissipation terms within the barrier. The computational effort required for model initialisation is reduced through a novel generation procedure. The effect of different impact positions on the energy dissipation within the barrier and the way the impact load is transmitted to the main structural elements of the barrier are investigated through a sensitivity analysis. The results show that the impact position has both qualitative and quantitative effects on the barrier response, which significantly modify the peak load acting on the structural elements and the combination of shear, tensile and moment loading on the fence posts.