Failure Characteristics of Complicated Random Jointed Rock Mass Under Compressive-Shear Loading

Most natural rock masses contain a large number of random joints and fissures, and most of the rock masses at the rock engineering are commonly in both compression and shear stress environment. However, the research on the failure characteristics of complex random jointed rock mass under compressive-shear loading is still limited. To address this gap, this paper uses the particle flow code 2D to establish a discrete fractured rock mass model and carry out a series of numerical tests with different compressive-shear angles (α) and different joint geometric parameters. The effects of compressive-shear angle and joint geometric parameters on the strength and failure characteristics of fractured rock masses are studied. The results indicate that with the increase of α, the peak strength of the specimen decreases gradually, and the failure mode changes from the composite shear failure mode (Mode-I) to a plane shear failure mode (Mode-II) and then to intact shear failure mode (Mode-III). Specifically, the three failure modes occur in the specimens with α?=?15°, 30° or 45°, 60°, respectively. The existence of joints affects stress distribution on rock mass during the loading process. Furthermore, the stress at the joint tip is relatively concentrated, while on both sides of the joint is smaller. Three kinds of crack coalescence patterns are observed: tensile, shear, and tensile-shear mixed coalescence. The inclination angle of the rock bridge between adjacent joints affects the specific type of coalescence.