Uncovering the Damage Mechanism of Different Prefabricated Joint Inclinations in Deeply Buried Granite: Monitoring the Damage Process by Acoustic Emission and Assessing the Micro-Evolution by X-Ray CT

This study reveals the damage mechanisms and fracture evolution characteristics of deeply buried granite with prefabricated joints (inclinations of 0°, 30°, 45°, 60°, and 90°) using uniaxial compression tests monitored by Acoustic Emission (AE) technology. Three-dimensional X-CT technology was used to analyze post-damage fracture evolution in specimens with varying joint inclinations. The results show that the stress-strain curve of deeply buried jointed granite under uniaxial compression includes three stages: initial compaction, crack extension, and failure. AE characteristics align with these stages, showing clear stress responses and timing features. In the initial compaction stage, micro-crack closure dominates, with smaller joint inclinations showing stronger closure effects. In the crack extension stage, joint inclination determines the crack propagation mode. In the failure stage, joint inclination significantly affects the spatial distribution of the rupture network by altering stress concentration areas and crack types. The proportion of shear micro-cracks increases with joint inclination, and peak strength rises with increasing joint angle, potentially accelerating micro-crack evolution. These findings provide valuable insights for designing excavation and instability monitoring in deeply buried multi-jointed granite underground projects.