The multi-dimensional joint response of the electric potential time–frequency-field in the fracture process of flawed coal under dynamic load

The fracture failure of flawed coal has always been a problem in underground engineering. Therefore, it is necessary to monitor crack propagation and damage evolution during coal fracture. In this study, the split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) and digital image correlation (DIC) were combined to analyze the impact failure electric potential (EP) of flawed coal samples. The multi-dimensional joint response characteristics of coal EP time–frequency-field under dynamic load were studied and the differential expression and multi-fractal characteristics of EP responses at different measuring points were analyzed. Based on the EP signals, the evolution of damage to the coal was calculated. The results show that the time series evolution of EP and stress–strain curves during coal failure is consistent. The generation of fracture zones will excite the high-value area of local EP, and the spectral distribution of EP signals in this area shows the characteristics of low frequency and high amplitude. Each channel’s EP signal and the degree of deformation at the corresponding place are perfectly matched. The multi-fractal spectrum of the EP signal close to the fracture zone has a higher Δα and a lower Δf, which demonstrates the dominance of the large-scale EP signal produced in this region by the destruction of sample. Theoretical study indicates that the main causes of the anomalous distribution of the EP field are crack tip potential, diffusion potential, etc. The results can provide theoretical basis for the evaluation of coal fracturing by EP technology.