Abstract: Soft rock tunnels are prone to significant rheological deformation, posing major engineering challenges. To address this, a yielding and energy-dissipating corrugated plate joint member is developed, and its axial compression performance is evaluated through laboratory experiments and numerical simulations. Seven specimen groups with varying corrugated plate thicknesses, heights, and layout spacings are designed to systematically analyze the influence mechanisms of these parameters on ultimate bearing capacity, constant-resistance bearing capacity, and maximum deformation. The test results show that the member undergoes four deformation stages during loading: elastic deformation, yielding, plastic development, and compaction strengthening, accompanied by non-uniform deformation and weld toe failure. For surrounding rock deformations of 100－270 mm, a corrugated plate height of 200－300 mm is recommended, whereas deformations exceeding 270 mm necessitate heights of 400 mm or more. To balance cost and performance, corrugated plate thickness can be limited to 3－4 mm and layout spacing to within 200 mm, provided that bearing capacity requirements are met. Numerical simulations align well with the experimental data and reveal stress concentrations at the central bends of the corrugated plates and at the weld toes, highlighting the need for enhanced welding quality or stiffeners in practical applications. Sensitivity analysis using a three-factor, three-level approach reveals that layout spacing, thickness, and height most strongly influence ultimate bearing capacity, constant-resistance bearing capacity, and maximum deformation, respectively.

Key words: large-deformation soft rock tunnel, yielding and energy-dissipating corrugated plate joint, axial compression, laboratory test, numerical simulation