A simple model to simulate the full-scale behaviour of falling rock protection barriers

This paper presents a simple two-dimensional finite element model developed to predict the behaviour of falling rock protection barriers, flexible metallic structures designed to intercept and stop falling rocks. The model, made by few truss elements, has been calibrated on the data obtained from full-scale tests on barrier prototypes carried out at the “vertical-drop” test site of Fonzaso (Belluno, Italy). Aspects of the extensive experimental work concerning different barrier prototypes, tested at energy levels ranging between 500 and 5000 kJ, are briefly described. Numerical simulations fit the experimental results well, providing evidence of the model reliability as a practical tool to support the design of such structures, which so far has been mostly based on full-scale test results.