Experimental Study on Rockfall Mechanism of Platy Rock on a Complex Slope

The rock fall trajectory and its mechanisms are the most difficult to predict, owing to the complexity of the slope and the Irregular shape of falling rocks. To acquire a better knowledge of the rock fall mechanism of platy rock and to investigate the influence of various impact parameters, a comprehensive physical model experimental study was undertaken based on 3D printing technology using a high-speed camera and specially developed block release system. Based on the experimental results, the effects of the slope angle on the stopping position, the instantaneous kinetic energy and collision position of platy rock block were analyzed. Meanwhile, the effects of movement forms of platy rock before and after collision on the normal coefficient of restitution and the tangent coefficient of restitution were discussed. It is observed that rock fall trajectory depends not only on slope material characteristics, slope angle but also on factors related to the platy block (weight, size and shape). The experimental results showed the value of restitution coefficient exceeding 1 has an important relation with the combination of various movement forms (including the flip motion) and the change of movement forms of platy rock before and after the collision. A new feasible experimental method for research and prevention of rock fall disaster was put forward. It would be important and helpful to the geo-hazard control work.