Experimental study on macro-meso damage of jointed rock mass under sequential cyclic loading–unloading followed by freeze–thaw cycles

Key Points

• Jointed rock mass exhibits significant macro-meso damage under sequential cyclic loading and unloading.
• Damage assessment shows an increase by approximately 30% after multiple freeze-thaw cycles over a two-week period.
• Experimental study analyzed the effects of cyclic loading and freeze-thaw cycles on rock stability.
• Findings highlight the need for further exploration of rock behavior in varied environmental conditions.