A theoretical model for the estimation of maximum impact force from a rockfall based on contact theory

Rockfall poses a great threat to buildings and personal security. To understand the dynamic characteristics of rockfalls is a prerequisite for disaster prevention and assessment. Models for rockfalls in different forms are established based on the theory of rigid body motion. The equivalent velocity considering the rotational effect is determined by the energy ratio. Besides, considering plastic deformation and nonlinear hardening, the maximum impact force is estimated based on the Hertz contact theory. Then, a case study is carried out to illustrate the applicability of the model and sensitive analyses on some affecting parameters are also made. Calculation results show that the maximum impact force increases with the increasing of incident velocity, angle and slope gradient reflected by the changing of energy ratio. Moreover, the model for the estimation of maximum impact force is validated by two different scales of experiments and compared with other theoretical models. Simulated maximum impact forces agree well with the experiments.