Three-dimensional characterization of particle morphology in natural gravel and blasted rock fragments using SfM-MVS photogrammetry

Abstract

This study aims to develop a high-precision and cost-efficient method for the three-dimensional reconstruction of large particles in natural gravel and blasted rock fragments, utilizing Structure from Motion (SfM) and Multi-View Stereo (MVS) techniques. The proposed approach was applied to characterize the three-dimensional morphology of rockfill dam materials at a real construction site. Particle shape was quantitatively analyzed using shape indices of sphericity, convexity, and angularity. The predominant morphology of natural gravel is characterized as slightly elongated and slightly flat, while rock fragments are slightly elongated and not flat. Probability density distributions of shape indices follow a skewed normal distribution: sphericity and convexity show leftward skewness, whereas angularity is right-skewed. Skewness parameters of sphericity and angularity are consistent between natural gravel and blasted rock fragments, indicating comparable shape asymmetry. Convexity skewness is significantly higher in natural gravel compared to rock fragments, by approximately an order of magnitude. The relationship between size and particle shape shows that form ratios and associated shape descriptors change linearly with the logarithm of size; larger particles approach spherical or cubic forms. The innovative measurements contribute to the particle shape data set of rockfill dam materials, providing valuable insights into the three-dimensional and statistical morphological characteristics of relatively large particles in natural gravel and blasted rock fragments. This approach enhances understanding of particle morphology’s impact on the mechanical behavior of granular materials.

Keywords

3D reconstruction / angularity / convexity / particle morphology / shape form

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2025 The Author(s). River published by Wiley-VCH GmbH on behalf of China Institute of Water Resources and Hydropower Research (IWHR).