Abstract: In this paper, the process and phenomenon of rock bursting in coal mines are simulated by using similar material and crude coal. The mechanism of surface instabilities leading to coal bursting is revealed. In the compression stress concentration area near opening free surface, the growth and coalescence of cracks occur parallel to the free surface and a layer plate structure is formed. Under critical compression, this structure buckles and fractures. 3 D model and in situ coal are used in this experiment. A new experimental approach is provided.