PENG Yi, ZHAO Qi-hua, HAN Gang, CHEN Yu-shu. 2023: Deep-seated rock fracture of valley slopes in China: A review. Journal of Mountain Science, 20(7): 1984-2002. DOI: 10.1007/s11629-023-8019-4
Citation: PENG Yi, ZHAO Qi-hua, HAN Gang, CHEN Yu-shu. 2023: Deep-seated rock fracture of valley slopes in China: A review. Journal of Mountain Science, 20(7): 1984-2002. DOI: 10.1007/s11629-023-8019-4

Deep-seated rock fracture of valley slopes in China: A review

  • Deep-seated rock fractures (referred to as DSRF hereafter) in valley slopes are uncommon geological phenomena that challenge our previous understanding of slope unloading processes. These fractures weaken the strength and integrity of the rock mass, potentially forming unstable block boundaries with significant volume, thereby affecting the stability of slopes, chambers, and dam abutments. DSRF has emerged as a critical environmental and engineering geological issue that hinders large-scale projects in deep canyon areas. Despite the attention and practical treatment given to DSRF in engineering practice, theoretical research on this topic still lags behind the demands of engineering applications. To garner widespread attention and promote the resolution of DSRF-related problems, this review aims to redefine DSRF through comprehensive data collection and analysis, engineering geological analogies, and field investigations, and provide a summary and analysis of the research progress on DSRF, along with future research directions. The study defines DSRF as the intermittent tension cracks or relaxation zones within a slightly weathered or fresh, and intact or relatively intact rock mass distributed below the surface unloading zones of a deep canyon slope, and should be distinguished from "loose rock mass" and "deep-seated gravitational slope deformations". The article provides an overview of the development and distribution, rupture characteristics, and genesis mechanism of DSRF. It proposes that DSRF is formed based on the fluvial deviation-undercutting evolution mode, wherein the energy accumulated in the rock mass is violently released when the river further down cuts the slope after the rock mass has undergone cyclical loading-unloading. However, further research is necessary to establish a comprehensive database for DSRF, refine exploration techniques, understand evolutionary processes, develop engineering evaluation methods, and predict the distribution of DSRF.
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