Influence of Weak Interlayer on the Mechanical Performance of the Bolted Rock Mass with a Single Free Surface in Deep Mining

Abstract

The existence of the weak interlayer in the roadway surrounding rock mass presents a huge threat to the stability of the underground structure and the safety of mining engineering. By the characteristics of strong adaptability, superior anchoring effect and high efficiency of construction, rock bolt has been widely applied in mine reinforcement. However, the influence of the weak interlayer on the compressive performance of the bolted rock mass is still poorly understood due to the challenges in constructing an efficient experimental platform and complex testing processes. Here, we used the self-developed test system to investigate the influence of the thickness, uniaxial compressive strength, and dip angle of the weak interlayer on the compressive behavior of the bolted rock mass with a single free surface. The results show that the weak interlayer has a great weakening effect on the peak strength and elastic modulus of the specimens due to its low mechanical properties, as well as influencing the crack distribution and failure mode of the samples. As the strength of the weak interlayer is lower than 1.27 MPa, the thickness exceeds 20 mm, and the dip angle exceeds 15°, the synergistic bearing effect will be significantly reduced and affect the mechanical performance of the specimens. The evolution of the bolt force and bending moment are greatly impacted by the deformation process which could be divided into distinct stages of destruction, thereby providing an excellent detection method for judging the stability of the surrounding rock of the mine. The discovery of this research promote a better understanding of the impact of the weak interlayer on mining engineering and guide the mine reinforcement in the future.