Numerical investigation of the mechanical behavior of the backfill—rock composite structure under triaxial compression

To ensure safe and economical backfill mining, the mechanical response of the backfill—rock interaction system needs to be understood. The numerical investigation of the mechanical behavior of backfill—rock composite structure (BRCS) under triaxial compression, which includes deformation, failure patterns, strength characteristics, and acoustic emission (AE) evolution, was proposed. The models used in the tests have one rough interface, two cement—iron tailings ratios (CTRs), four interface angles (IAs), and three confining pressures (CPs). Results showed that the deformation, strength characteristics, and failure patterns of BRCS under triaxial compression depend on IA, CP, and CTR. The stress—strain curves of BRCS under triaxial compression could be divided into five stages, namely, compaction, elasticity, yield, strain softening, and residual stress. The relevant AE counts have corresponding relationships with different stages. The triaxial compressive strengths of composites increase linearly with the increase of the CP. Furthermore, the CP stress strengthening effect occurs. When the IAs are 45° and 60°, the failure areas of composites appear in the interface and backfill. When the IAs are 75° and 90°, the failure areas of composites appear in the backfill, interface, and rock. Moreover, the corresponding failure modes yield the combined shear failure. The research results provide the basis for further understanding of the stability of the BRCS.