Dynamic failure behaviour of sandstone with filling joints using the Brazilian disc method

Abstract

Rock masses contain joints often filled with low-strength materials such as mud and gum. The instability mechanism of a filled jointed rock mass under dynamic loads is complex, posing challenges for disaster control. Splitting tests were conducted using a split Hopkinson pressure bar device and a high-speed camera to investigate the effects of weak-filling joints at various angles on the failure mechanism and mechanical properties of sandstone. The typical failure processes, splitting mechanical properties and fracture morphologies were analysed. The results indicated that as the joint angle increased from 0 to 90°, the crack coalescence pattern of the jointed sample under static and dynamic splitting loads evolved from complete separation along the bonding surfaces to shear–slippage failure along the direction of the joint angle and tensile–shear failure with a dominant zigzag track, ultimately leading to typical tensile failure. Under dynamic loads, filled joints reduced the brittleness of the samples, contrary to the behaviour observed under static loads. The peak load and displacement were proportional to the joint angle and impact gas pressure, respectively. The fracture surface morphology precisely reflected the macroscopic fracture mechanism at the microscopic scale.