Study on the stability of bedding rock slopes with weak structural surfaces under multiple parametric influences

Abstract The widespread occurrence of weak structural surfaces within rock masses poses a substantial threat to slope stability. This study adopts a method that simultaneously considers the reduction of both tensile and shear strength, systematically investigating the failure mechanisms and stability patterns of bedding rock slopes with weak structural surfaces under the influence of varying parameters. Numerical simulations were conducted to analyze the effects of slope geometric parameters (slope height h , slope angle α , and number of excavation stages n ), rock geotechnical properties (cohesion c and internal friction angle φ ), and weak structural surface characteristics (inclination Angle β , spacing d , and thickness l ). The results indicate that the slope safety factor ( F s ) decreases with increasing h , α , and l , but increases with increasing n , d , c , and φ . Specifically, the influence of the β exhibits a non-linear relationship, with the lowest stability occurring at β = 30°. Slopes containing vertical weak structural surfaces exhibit markedly higher stability than those with horizontal surfaces. Moreover, weak structural surfaces fundamentally modify potential failure modes, causing slip fracture surfaces to develop linearly along these structural surfaces rather than following the conventional smooth, curved morphology. This study elucidates the controlling mechanisms of bedding slope stability with weak structural surfaces, providing a theoretical basis for optimizing the design and preventing risks in similar slope engineering applications.