By using equivalent rock mass (ERM) technique

the rock block and joint are represented by bonded particle model and smooth joint model

respectively. Then

the rock specimen containing two artificial intermittent joints is constructed

and its mechanical characteristics and fracture mechanism are investigated from mesoscopic viewpoint. Meanwhile

combining with lab test result

the suitability and reliability of ERM technique used in the mechanical characteristics research of jointed rock mass are validated by comparative analysis between calculative and experimental data. The main research results are as follows: (1) With the occurrence change of intermittent joint

the macro fractures of specimen can be divided into shear mode

wing tensile mode and mixed mode. However

the tensile micro crack between particles is the main inducement that causes various macro fracture mode. (2) Before the peak compressive strength of specimen

the acoustic emission (AE) events of fracture mainly generate near the tip of intermittent joint and accumulate along the link line between the tips of the two intermittent joints in rock bridge area. In this stage

the number of AE events is less and the fracture magnitude is lower. (3) After the peak compressive strength of specimen

the number of AE events increases rapidly and the fracture magnitude enhances. (4) In different specimens

all the relationships between cumulative number of AE events and fracture magnitude approximately meet Doseresp growth function.