Damage quantification and response surface prediction of blasting-induced slope stability based on DFN

During the blasting excavation of rock slopes, the presence of complex joint and fracture networks, coupled with strong multifactorial disturbances, leads to highly nonlinear and unpredictable damage evolution and instability mechanisms. Traditional stability analyses, relying on limit equilibrium theory, numerical modeling, or single-parameter approaches, often fail to capture the coupled effects of multiple blasting parameters and the complete damage evolution under dynamic loading conditions. To address these limitations, this study proposes an innovative three-dimensional DFN–PFC-based slope stability analysis method that integrates discrete fracture network (DFN)–based damage quantification with response surface methodology (RSM) for multi-parameter optimization. By conducting batch numerical simulations and automated data extraction, the coupled effects of key variables—including charge quantity, initial damage, disturbance distance, and lithological strength—on slope failure were quantitatively analyzed. The results indicate that increased coupling between charge quantity and damage levels significantly reduces the safety factor, thereby increasing the risk of instability; in contrast, greater disturbance distances or lower joint densities contribute to enhanced slope stability. The safety factor prediction model developed in this study, based on RSM, effectively quantifies the combined influence of multiple parameters and provides a scientific basis for optimized blasting design and risk control in complex jointed rock slopes.