Structural deterioration and instability in grouted reinforcement crushed rock masses subjected to increasing-amplitude fatigue loading

Abstract

To investigate the influence of different Talbot grading indices (n-values) on the fatigue damage deterioration and instability behavior of grouted reinforcement body, an increasing-amplitude fatigue loading test was conducted on grouted reinforcement specimens with different n-values using the multi-functional electro-hydraulic servo-controlled rigidity test system (MTS-815). Acoustic emission (AE) technology was employed to monitor the entire testing process. The fatigue mechanical response mechanism, AE characteristic parameters, and damage modes were analyzed. The results demonstrate that as n-value increases, the mechanical characteristics of the specimens initially increase and then decrease. AE parameters, including the cumulative AE ring counts and energy counts, follow the same trend, and spectral characteristics exhibit a strong correlation with crack evolution. The cumulative AE ring counts damage model reveals a three-phase behavior for the specimens under different n-values. The b-value, which characterizes the scale distribution of cracking events, correlates with the volumetric strain growth rate, showing a more sensitive response. Differences in n-values directly affect the distribution of RA/AF signals and damage modes. The findings provide valuable insights into predicting the destabilization of grouted reinforcement specimens under fatigue disturbance and offer necessary theoretical support for the design and stability control of excavation in fragmented surrounding rock.

Keywords

grouted reinforcement specimens / Talbot grading indices / fatigue loading / b-value / damage model

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