<p>The presence of weak interlayers in fissured rock masses significantly alters their mechanical behavior. Clarifying the dynamic response of rock matrices containing infilling materials under dynamic loading is essential for mitigating dynamic geo-hazards. Addressing the current research gap focusing predominantly on rigid or granular fillers while neglecting clayey interlayers. This investigation employs a Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB) experimental system to systematically examine the influence of varying impact pressures and kaolinite-clay filling thicknesses on the dynamic characteristics of rock-clay combination systems. Experimental results demonstrate distinct strain-rate hardening and thickness-weakening phenomena in the dynamic compressive strength of the rock-clay combination. Energy dissipation analysis reveals that increasing filling thickness proportionally elevates reflected energy while reducing both dissipated and transmitted energy components, exhibiting a characteristic threshold behavior in energy redistribution. Failure mode transitions from localized fracturing at low energy inputs to catastrophic crushing at high impact intensities were observed. Notably, the cushioning effect of clay layers approaches saturation under high-strain-rate loading conditions, where the rock matrix’s intrinsic dynamic strength governs the failure mechanism. These findings elucidate the energy absorption mechanisms of clay interlayers, offering critical insights for impact-resistant design in deep underground engineering projects.</p>