Dynamic failure of roadways under dynamic disturbances – a physical modeling study

• A complete physical simulation method for dynamically disturbed roadways was developed by integrating a loading device, model material, and support system. • Physical tests revealed that oscillatory effects of stress waves are the primary cause of roadway failure under dynamic disturbances. • Collaborative support significantly reduces cracking, deformation, and bolt load fluctuation during disturbances, thereby delaying structural failure. • Bolt axial loads exhibit a distinct three-phase response under repeated dynamic disturbances, indicating a cumulative damage-to-failure mechanism. Ensuring the stability of deep coal mine roadways under dynamic disturbances remains a critical challenge in underground mining engineering. While prior research has demonstrated the benefits of support systems, the failure mechanisms of anchored structures and their dynamic response characteristics under repeated impact loading are not yet fully understood. Addressing this knowledge gap is essential for improving roadway resilience against rock bursts and other dynamic failures. Here, a dynamic-static loading simulation system was developed, and a brittle-elastic gypsum-based material was used to simulate deep roadway conditions. Physical model tests were conducted under three support configurations: unsupported, rock bolt-supported, and rock bolt–shield collaborative support. Deformation behavior, failure characteristics, and bolt force responses were systematically analyzed under repeated dynamic impacts. Results show that oscillatory effects induced by dynamic stress waves are the key factor leading to roadway instability. The collaborative support significantly enhances roadway impact resistance—sustaining twelve impacts versus two in the unsupported case—by reducing crack propagation, limiting plastic deformation, and suppressing bolt load oscillation. A cumulative damage–to–failure pattern was observed in side bolts, revealing critical thresholds for structural degradation. The experimental approach and results offer a valuable reference for optimizing roadway support design in deep coal mines.