Failure of Rock Slopes with Intermittent Joints: Failure Process and Stability Calculation Models

Abstract Rock slopes with intermittent joints in open-pit mines are complex geological bodies composed of intact rock and discontinuous structural planes, their stability analysis necessary for mine disaster prevention. In this study, a series base friction tests were performed to determine the failure process displacement field evolution using speckle technique noncontact measurement system. Next, calculation models established from energy perspective plastic limit theory, effects joint inclination angle coalescence coefficient bridges on slope evaluated. The four main conclusions as follows: (1) shows feature collapse-lower traction-upper push. (2) Based modes slopes, could be divided into three types: tensile (type A), shear B), tensile–shear C). (3) Among types, type A is significantly influenced by cohesion, whereas that B cohesion. C angle. (4) local-stable unstable while first through-tensile crack zone potential sliding body higher than critical instability height appeared. This study guides evaluation prediction jointed mines.