Numerical Study of Mechanical Behavior and Fracture Characteristics of Dolomitic Limestone with Densely Distributed Small Holes

Densely distributed small holes significantly affect the mechanical behavior and fracture characteristics of rock masses. In this study, the two-dimensional particle flow code was employed to establish a series of numerical models of dolomitic limestone, with the number of small circular holes increasing according to the sequence (2n − 1)2 (n = 1–6). Comparative models with equivalent area and variable spacing were additionally designed to explore their regulatory effects. The strength, crack evolution, and contact force chain distribution of each model were systematically analyzed. The results reveal that the number of small holes exhibits an approximately linear negative correlation with the rock strength. The number of holes dominates the crack initiation location and propagation path. The crack initiation stress gradually decreases with increasing hole number, while the ratio of crack initiation stress to peak stress exhibits a V-shaped trend. As the hole number increases, the distribution of compressive force chains shifts from the sides of holes to the vertical strips between holes, and tensile force chains become significantly enhanced in the areas above and below the holes. Hole spacing and equivalent area exert only local modulating effects; the number and spatial arrangement of holes remain the dominant controls on strength deterioration and fracture evolution. These findings offer a theoretical foundation for stability assessment in rock masses characterized by densely distributed hole defects.